The Ultimate Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Soup: A Comforting & Easy Recipe

Indulge in the rich, comforting embrace of this homemade Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Soup. Bursting with hearty vegetables and deep, savory flavors, it’s the perfect quick and satisfying meal for any day of the week. Forget bland, watery soups – our recipe delivers a velvety smooth texture and an irresistible cheesy goodness that will delight your taste buds.

For those who adore the classic, this recipe also serves as an exceptional Broccoli Cheddar Soup copycat, bringing the beloved Panera® flavor right to your kitchen.

Why This Creamy Broccoli Soup is a Must-Try

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade soup to soothe the soul, and this Broccoli Soup truly hits the spot. It’s not just delicious; it’s incredibly easy and versatile, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With minimal preparation and the magic of a blender, you can achieve an unbelievably smooth, restaurant-quality soup in mere minutes.

One of the best features of this recipe is its forgiving nature. You don’t need to be precise with your vegetable chopping – a coarse chop is all that’s required, as your blender will handle the rest, transforming simple ingredients into a silky, luxurious purée. This means less time fussing in the kitchen and more time enjoying a wholesome, satisfying meal.

This recipe is also a fantastic way to utilize any leftover broccoli you might have in your refrigerator, preventing food waste. And if fresh isn’t available, frozen broccoli works just as wonderfully, making this soup accessible year-round. It’s an effortless method to introduce more vegetables into your diet, perfect for families looking for kid-friendly ways to eat healthier without compromising on flavor.

Pair this hearty soup with some warm, crusty, and buttery No-Knead Bread for dipping, or sprinkle a handful of Homemade Croutons on top for an added textural crunch. Either way, you’re in for a treat that will satisfy your cravings and warm you from the inside out!

Ingredients Spotlight: Crafting the Best Broccoli Soup

Each ingredient in this creamy broccoli soup plays a crucial role in creating its rich flavor and satisfying texture. Understanding their contributions helps ensure a perfect batch every time:

• **Fresh Broccoli**: While frozen works, fresh broccoli offers a vibrant green color and a slightly more distinct flavor. Don’t discard the stems entirely! They contain just as many nutrients and soften beautifully when cooked and blended. Just be sure to trim any tough outer layers.
• **Potatoes (Especially Golden Varieties)**: Potatoes are the secret to the soup’s incredible creaminess without needing excessive amounts of heavy cream. Golden potatoes, like Yukon Golds, are particularly excellent because their thin skin doesn’t need to be peeled, and their buttery texture blends exceptionally well. They add a subtle sweetness and body that makes the soup truly comforting.
• **Sharp Cheddar Cheese**: The star of the show for that signature cheesy flavor! Opting for sharp cheddar is key. Aged cheeses develop a more profound, pungent taste that truly shines in a creamy soup. Freshly grating your cheese from a block is highly recommended over pre-shredded varieties, as it melts smoother and provides superior flavor, free from anti-caking agents.
• **Half-and-Half (or Heavy Cream)**: This dairy component adds the luxurious richness that elevates the soup from good to extraordinary. Half-and-half offers a lighter creaminess, while heavy cream provides a denser, more indulgent texture. Choose based on your preference for richness. You can even make your own half-and-half by combining equal parts whole milk and heavy cream.
• **Aromatics (Onion & Garlic)**: These fundamental flavor builders provide a fragrant base for the soup, adding depth and warmth. Sautéing them until softened releases their sweet and savory notes, which permeate throughout the entire dish.
• **Chicken Broth**: The primary liquid for our soup, chicken broth adds a savory foundation. For a vegetarian version, simply substitute with vegetable broth without compromising on flavor.
• **Ground Mustard**: A seemingly small addition, ground mustard powder is a game-changer. It doesn’t make the soup taste like mustard; instead, it subtly enhances the cheesiness and overall savory profile, making the flavors pop.

Expert Tips for the Best Creamy Broccoli Soup

Achieving the perfect creamy and cheesy broccoli soup is simple with a few expert tips:

1. **Ensure Vegetables are Perfectly Tender**: For an exceptionally smooth and lump-free soup, it’s crucial that your vegetables – especially the potatoes and broccoli – are thoroughly cooked until very tender. You can easily test this by piercing them with a fork; if the fork glides in with minimal resistance, they are ready for blending. Undercooked vegetables will result in a grainy texture.
2. **Embrace Sharp Cheddar Cheese**: The quality and type of cheese significantly impact the soup’s flavor. Always opt for a **good quality, sharp Cheddar cheese**. “Sharp” indicates a more aged cheese, which delivers a richer, more complex, and pungent flavor profile. If your soup ever tastes a bit flat or lacks that distinct cheesy punch, it’s likely due to using a mild or young cheddar, or perhaps not enough salt to truly awaken the cheese’s flavor.
3. **Always Grate Fresh Cheese**: While convenient, pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can prevent them from melting smoothly and impart a slightly floury texture. For the best melt and unparalleled flavor, **grate your cheese fresh from the block**. This small step makes a huge difference in the final creaminess and taste of your soup.
4. **Season to Perfection**: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper! These basic seasonings are vital for bringing all the flavors together and enhancing the natural taste of the ingredients. Always **taste the soup before serving** and adjust the seasoning as needed. A pinch more salt can often make the cheese flavor sing, while a touch of pepper adds a lovely warmth.
5. **Invest in a High-Speed Blender (or an Immersion Blender)**: For that ultra-smooth, restaurant-quality consistency, a high-speed blender is ideal for pureeing the soup. If you don’t have one, a good quality immersion blender is equally effective and saves you the hassle of transferring hot liquid.

Blending Hot Soup: Safety First!

Whether you opt for an immersion blender or a **regular blender** to achieve the perfect consistency for your Broccoli Soup, safety should always be your top priority. Hot liquids can be dangerous if not handled correctly during blending. Here are essential tips to prevent accidents and ensure a smooth, safe process:

• **Choose the Right Tool**: If using a regular blender, ideally select one specifically designed to handle hot liquids. These blenders typically have vented lids that allow steam to escape safely. If your blender doesn’t have a vented lid, proceed with extra caution.
• **Allow for Cooling**: Even a few minutes can make a difference. Let the soup cool slightly before attempting to blend it. Reducing the temperature minimizes steam buildup and decreases the risk of the blender lid blowing off or hot soup splattering.
• **Blend in Small Batches**: Overfilling a blender with hot liquid is a common cause of accidents. Always **work in batches**, filling the blender no more than halfway (or to the “hot liquid” maximum fill line, if indicated). This recipe is designed to be blended in two separate batches for optimal safety and consistency.
• **Ventilation is Key**: If your regular blender lid isn’t vented, carefully remove the center cap or stopper from the lid. Then, **cover the opening with a clean kitchen towel** and hold it down firmly while blending. This allows steam to escape safely without the risk of an explosion.
• **Start Slow and Steady**: Begin blending on the lowest speed setting and gradually increase it. This helps to prevent sudden surges of hot liquid.
• **Exercise Caution with Steam**: When you remove the lid from the blender or pour the puréed Broccoli Soup back into the pot, be extremely cautious. A significant amount of steam will be released, which can cause severe burns. Keep your face and hands away from the opening.

Creative Variations to Elevate Your Broccoli Soup

While this creamy cheesy broccoli soup is fantastic on its own, it also serves as a wonderful canvas for culinary creativity. Don’t hesitate to experiment with these delicious variations to make it your own:

• **Luscious Toppings**: Elevate your soup with delightful garnishes. Consider crispy **bacon bits** for a salty, smoky crunch, a generous sprinkle of Homemade Croutons for texture, or an **extra drizzle of cream** or a dollop of sour cream for added richness and a beautiful presentation. Freshly chopped chives or parsley also add a touch of color and fresh flavor.
• **A Touch of Spice**: If you enjoy a little heat, introduce some spice! A pinch of **cayenne pepper**, a dash of **red pepper flakes**, or a spoonful of **smoked paprika** can add a warm kick and complexity without overpowering the dish. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
• **Cheese Adventures**: Don’t limit yourself to just cheddar! Experiment with different cheeses to alter the flavor profile. **Gruyere** offers a nutty, earthy depth, while **Gouda** provides a sweeter, milder creaminess. A blend of cheeses can also create a multi-layered flavor experience.
• **Herbaceous Finish**: Fresh herbs are a simple yet effective way to add brightness and aroma. Stir in freshly chopped **thyme, parsley, or chives** just before serving for the perfect finishing touch. They add a fresh counterpoint to the rich and creamy base.
• **Add Protein**: For a heartier meal, consider stirring in shredded cooked chicken, crumbled sausage, or even white beans after blending.
• **Vegetable Boost**: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or kale during the last few minutes of simmering, allowing them to wilt before blending.

Storing and Reheating Creamy Broccoli Soup

Making a big batch of this delicious broccoli soup is a fantastic idea, as it stores wonderfully! Here’s how to keep it fresh and enjoy it later:

• **Refrigeration**: Allow the soup to **fully cool** to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Divide it into smaller, individual portions for easier reheating. Store in the refrigerator for **3-4 days**.
• **Reheating Leftovers**:
  • **Stovetop**: Gently reheat the soup over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
  • **Microwave**: Reheat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring every minute, until hot.

  If the soup has thickened considerably after refrigeration, add a splash of water, chicken broth, or milk/cream to thin it out to your desired consistency while reheating.

• **Freezing for Longer Storage**: It is certainly possible to freeze dairy-based soups, but it’s important to be aware that they can sometimes curdle or separate slightly upon thawing. To minimize these effects and better maintain the soup’s texture and flavor:
  • **Cool Completely**: Ensure the soup is completely cold before freezing.
  • **Portion Properly**: Freeze in individual, airtight freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave some headspace in containers, as liquids expand when frozen.
  • **Thawing and Reheating**: Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator. When reheating, do so slowly over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently. If it appears too thick or slightly separated, gently whisk it and add a bit more milk or cream to restore its smooth texture.
  • **Best Quality**: For optimal taste and texture, consume frozen soup within **three months**. While safe to eat longer, the quality may diminish. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor of the soup may change slightly after freezing and reheating, so it’s often best enjoyed fresh or soon after thawing.

What To Serve With Creamy Broccoli Soup

A rich and creamy soup like this broccoli delight pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some fantastic ideas to complete your meal:

1. **Crusty Bread**: A classic and undeniable choice! A warm, crusty loaf of French Bread or a rustic artisan bread is perfect for dipping into the velvety soup. Serve it with a side of butter or olive oil for an extra indulgent experience. Fluffy Dinner Rolls are another excellent option.
2. **Grilled Cheese Sandwich**: The ultimate comfort food duo! A gooey Grilled Cheese sandwich is an irresistible pairing, offering a delightful contrast in texture and a complementary cheesy flavor.
3. **Light Garden Salad**: To balance the richness of the soup, a fresh and vibrant Garden Salad with a light vinaigrette is a perfect choice. It adds a refreshing crunch and a boost of greens.
4. **Garlic Bread**: For an extra burst of flavor, serve your broccoli soup with a side of savory garlic bread. The garlicky buttered bread is ideal for soaking up every last drop of the creamy soup.
5. **Fluffy Biscuits**: A homemade Biscuit, warm from the oven, offers a wonderfully soft texture that’s fantastic for dipping and adds a touch of homestyle goodness to your meal.
6. **Roasted Vegetables**: A simple side of roasted asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts can add more nutrition and a different texture to your plate.

More Creamy Soup Recipes to Enjoy

If you’re a fan of rich, comforting, and creamy soups, you’re in luck! Explore these other delightful recipes that promise warmth and flavor:

• Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe: A decadent soup featuring earthy mushrooms, carrots, celery, and onion in a luscious base.
• Creamy Chicken Soup: A hearty and wholesome soup packed with tender chicken and an abundance of fresh vegetables.
• Butternut Squash Soup: A naturally sweet and creamy soup, often garnished with crunchy pepitas for texture.
• Chicken Curry Rice Soup: An aromatic and flavorful soup featuring tender shredded chicken and warming curry spices.
• Lasagna Soup: All the comforting flavors of lasagna in a bowl, with a creamy tomato base and pasta.

Broccoli Soup Recipe

By Chelsea Lords

This Broccoli Soup is a comforting, creamy, and cheesy delight that’s full of flavor and nutrients. Packed with broccoli, carrots, and potatoes, it’s quick to prepare and perfect for a chilly evening or a satisfying lunch!

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Equipment

• Blender (immersion or regular)
• Large pot with lid

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup diced carrot
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 8 cups coarsely chopped broccoli (about 2 large heads, including some stems)
• 2-1/2 cups chopped baby gold potatoes (or russets, peeled)
• 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1-1/2 cups freshly shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
• 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard
• Hearty buttered bread (optional, for serving)
• Toppings as desired (extra cheese, half-and-half drizzle, bacon bits)

Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and carrot for 4 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Stir in the coarsely chopped broccoli, chopped potatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium. Cover the pot and allow it to cook for 20 minutes, or until all the vegetables are very tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
3. Carefully purée the soup. You can use an immersion blender directly in the pot until smooth. If using a regular blender, transfer the soup in two batches (filling the blender no more than halfway) and blend until creamy. Remember to vent the lid and use a kitchen towel to avoid steam buildup.
4. Once puréed, carefully pour the soup back into the pot. Stir in the half-and-half or heavy cream. Add the freshly shredded sharp Cheddar cheese gradually, a handful at a time, stirring continuously between additions until all the cheese has melted completely into the soup. Stir in the ground mustard powder. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt and pepper to your preference.
5. Ladle the warm soup into bowls. For an extra touch, drizzle with a little more half-and-half, sprinkle with additional shredded cheese, or garnish with crispy bacon bits. Serve immediately with warm, crusty buttered bread for dipping, and enjoy this comforting meal!

Recipe Notes

1. Potatoes: For the best results, we recommend golden potatoes (like Yukon Golds). Their delicate skin does not need to be removed; simply wash thoroughly and coarsely chop into 1-inch pieces before measuring. If you opt for russet potatoes, be sure to peel them first.
2. Broccoli Measurement: This recipe typically requires about 2 large heads of broccoli. Coarsely chop the broccoli florets and some tender stem pieces, then gently pack them into measuring cups to ensure an accurate 8-cup measurement.
3. Cheddar Cheese Quality: For that rich, authentic flavor, always use a good quality, sharp Cheddar cheese. Freshly grating cheese from a block ensures the best melt and superior flavor, as pre-shredded varieties often contain starches that can affect texture. Gently pack the shredded cheese into measuring cups for precision.
4. Half-and-Half Substitute: If you don’t have half-and-half on hand, you can easily make your own by mixing 1/2 cup heavy cream with 1/2 cup whole milk.
5. Serving Suggestions & Toppings: This soup is fantastic topped with extra cheese, a swirl of half-and-half, or crunchy bacon bits. For dipping, serve with crusty, warm, buttered bread or homemade croutons.
6. Blending Hot Liquids Safely: When using a regular blender for hot soup, always follow these precautions to prevent accidents:
   • Use a blender designed for hot liquids, or one with a vented lid.
   • Allow the soup to cool slightly before blending to reduce steam pressure.
   • Work in small batches, filling the blender no more than halfway.
   • If your blender lid is not vented, remove the center cap and cover the opening with a kitchen towel while blending to allow steam to escape.
   • Be extremely cautious when removing the lid and pouring the blended soup, as steam can cause burns.
7. Storage and Freezing:
   • Refrigeration: Let the soup cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
   • Freezing: Cool completely before freezing in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Note that dairy-based soups may slightly curdle or separate upon thawing. Reheat slowly over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk if needed to restore consistency.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 259kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 35mg | Sodium: 863mg | Potassium: 844mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 10772IU | Vitamin C: 98mg | Calcium: 261mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation.

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