Broccoli Cheddar Comfort Soup

Featured in: Hearty Soups & Stews

This comforting bowl combines tender broccoli florets with sharp cheddar cheese to create a creamy, satisfying dish. Butter and onions form a flavorful base, while a roux thickens the blend. Simmered to tender perfection and smoothly blended, it offers rich dairy warmth balanced by black pepper and optional nutmeg. Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra cheese or black pepper, for a cozy meal suited to any day.

Updated on Tue, 18 Nov 2025 16:21:00 GMT
Steaming bowl of creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup, garnished, ready to enjoy on a chilly evening. Save to Pinterest
Steaming bowl of creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup, garnished, ready to enjoy on a chilly evening. | frostkettle.com

A creamy comforting soup featuring tender broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese—perfect for cozy nights or a quick satisfying meal.

The first time I made this broccoli cheese soup it was an instant hit. The aroma of melted cheddar and warm veggies brings everyone into the kitchen.

Ingredients

  • Frozen broccoli florets: 500 g (1 lb)
  • Onion: 1 medium finely chopped
  • Garlic: 2 cloves minced
  • Sharp cheddar cheese: 200 g (2 cups) shredded
  • Unsalted butter: 60 g (1/4 cup)
  • Whole milk: 500 ml (2 cups)
  • Vegetable broth: 250 ml (1 cup)
  • All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
  • Salt: 1/2 tsp or to taste
  • Black pepper: 1/4 tsp freshly ground
  • Nutmeg: 1/4 tsp ground optional

Instructions

Cook the aromatics:
In a large pot over medium heat melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent about 4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Make the roux:
Sprinkle in the flour and cook stirring constantly for 2 minutes to form a roux.
Add liquids:
Gradually whisk in the milk and vegetable broth until smooth.
Simmer the soup:
Add the frozen broccoli salt pepper and nutmeg (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 10–12 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
Blend:
Use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency (chunky or smooth). Alternatively blend in batches in a countertop blender then return to the pot.
Finish:
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time mixing until melted and smooth.
Serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot garnished with extra cheese or a sprinkle of black pepper if desired.
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This soup is always requested by family on chilly evenings. It disappears quickly when served with warm bread.

Required Tools

Large soup pot wooden spoon immersion blender measuring cups and a cheese grater make this recipe a breeze.

Allergen Information

This dish contains dairy (cheese milk butter) and gluten (flour) so be sure to check all packaged ingredients if you have sensitivities.

Nutritional Information

Each serving has about 330 calories 21 g total fat 18 g carbohydrates and 16 g protein.

A close-up of golden, melted cheddar swirling into the comforting Broccoli Cheese Soup. Save to Pinterest
A close-up of golden, melted cheddar swirling into the comforting Broccoli Cheese Soup. | frostkettle.com

Enjoy this broccoli cheese soup piping hot for maximum comfort. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Recipe Questions & Answers

What type of broccoli works best?

Frozen broccoli florets are convenient and retain good texture after simmering, making them ideal for this dish.

Can I adjust the thickness?

Yes, blending the soup to your preferred consistency or adjusting liquid amounts lets you create anything from chunky to smooth.

What cheese enhances flavor?

Sharp cheddar adds a rich, tangy depth that melts smoothly, balancing the earthiness of broccoli.

Are substitutions possible for dairy?

For a lighter version, half-and-half or low-fat milk can replace whole milk, but cheese contributes key flavor and creaminess.

How to add extra texture?

Diced carrots or celery can be sautéed with onions to introduce additional flavor and crunch.

What sides pair well?

Crusty bread or a fresh side salad complement the creamy blend and round out the meal nicely.

Broccoli Cheddar Comfort Soup

Smooth blend of broccoli and sharp cheddar, ideal for warm, comforting dining moments.

Prep Duration
10 minutes
Time to Cook
25 minutes
Overall Time
35 minutes
Created by Nora Whitman


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 4 Serving Size

Dietary Information Meatless

What You Need

Vegetables

01 1 lb frozen broccoli florets
02 1 medium onion, finely chopped
03 2 garlic cloves, minced

Dairy

01 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
02 1/4 cup unsalted butter
03 2 cups whole milk
04 1 cup vegetable broth

Pantry

01 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
02 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
03 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
04 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, optional

How-To Steps

Step 01

Sauté Aromatics: Melt the unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, approximately 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.

Step 02

Form Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the onion mixture and stir constantly for 2 minutes to create a roux, ensuring no raw flour taste remains.

Step 03

Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and vegetable broth until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.

Step 04

Simmer with Broccoli and Seasonings: Incorporate the frozen broccoli florets, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if used. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook gently for 10 to 12 minutes until broccoli is tender.

Step 05

Blend Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to the desired texture, whether chunky or smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches using a countertop blender then return to the pot.

Step 06

Incorporate Cheese: Reduce heat to low and gradually fold in shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until fully melted and integrated.

Step 07

Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra cheese or a sprinkle of black pepper.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large soup pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Immersion blender or countertop blender
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cheese grater

Allergy Info

Review every ingredient for allergens. Ask a healthcare professional if unsure.
  • Contains dairy (butter, milk, cheddar cheese) and gluten (all-purpose flour).

Nutrition Details (Each Serving)

Given for informational purposes, this isn't medical advice.
  • Energy Value: 330
  • Fats: 21 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Proteins: 16 g