Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This warm and hearty broccoli cheddar soup is perfect to make on a rainy day or on a cold winter night. It is the best comfort food, filled with flavorful, chunky broccoli, crunchy carrots, and delicious cheddar cheese!

For more comfort dishes perfect for a chilly day, try my Texas Chili or my Rainy Day Chicken Noodle soup next!

Winter season is synonymous with soup season. As soon as the weather drops, one of my go-to’s is immediately this Broccoli Cheddar Soup. It is literally a bowl of comfort. Nothing beats homemade broccoli cheddar soup and this one is filled with pieces of perfectly cooked broccoli and a rich, cheesy cheddar base. Make a large batch, enjoy some, and place the rest in the freezer for a quick meal later!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Broccoli: Provides a mild, slightly earthy, and nutty flavor to the soup. Broccoli also adds a hearty texture to the soup
• Carrot: Carrot provides a sweet flavor to the soup as well a more texture for a hearty feel.  
• Onion: Contributes a sweet and savory flavor base to the soup.
• Garlic: Garlic provides a pungent and aromatic flavor to the soup, enhancing its overall taste.
• Chicken Broth. The ingredients will simmer in chicken broth. Use low-sodium chicken broth if you prefer. Then, you can adjust the salt levels to taste. 
• Heavy Cream: adds a rich and creamy texture to the soup, making it velvety and indulgent.
• Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese contributes to the creamy consistency and richness of the soup. It imparts a sharp, tangy, and savory cheese flavor, which complements the broccoli.
• Butter: Adds a rich, buttery flavor to the roux, which helps thicken the soup.
• All Purpose Flour: Flour is used to create a roux, which thickens the soup and gives it a smooth consistency.
• Seasoning: enhances the flavors of all the ingredients

How To Make Broccoli Cheddar Noodle Soup

1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter. Add onion and celery and cook until soft, 5 minutes. Add in garlic and cook until fragrant. Whisk in flour and let cook 1 minute. Slowly add chicken broth and season with salt and Bayou City Garlic pepper. 
2. Stir in broccoli and carrots. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to low. Let simmer until vegetables are tender, 20 minutes.
3. Slowly add cream and bring to a simmer, then stir in cheddar.
4. Season to taste and top with more cheddar, bacon bits, or more veggies. Serve with baguette

Tips and Variations

• Shredded cheese: Shredding your own cheese makes all the difference when making broccoli cheddar soup. I feel like the cheese melts much easier and makes for a smoother texture.
• Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh broccoli, onions, and garlic for the best flavor. Fresh vegetables will enhance the overall taste of the soup.
• Broccoli and Cauliflower Soup: Replace some or all of the broccoli with cauliflower to create a broccoli and cauliflower cheddar soup. This adds a slightly different flavor and color to the dish.
• Banch the Broccoli: If you want to maintain the vibrant green color of the broccoli, blanch it in boiling water for a minute or two before adding it to the soup. Then, shock it in ice water to stop the cooking process.
• Add Bacon: Crispy bacon bits can be a delicious addition for those who enjoy a smoky, savory element. Sprinkle them on top as a garnish.
• Vegetarian or Vegan Version: Use vegetable broth and a dairy-free cheese and cream substitute (such as almond milk or coconut milk) to make a vegetarian or vegan broccoli cheddar soup.

FAQS

1. Can I use frozen broccoli for the soup?

• Yes, you can use frozen broccoli if fresh broccoli is not available. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup.

2. My soup turned out too thick. How can I thin it out?

• To thin out thick soup, simply add more broth or milk/cream a little at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

• Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Swiss, or Monterey Jack to create different flavor profiles.

4. How can I make the soup gluten-free?

• To make the soup gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour or a thickening agent like cornstarch. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, including the broth, are gluten-free as well.

How do you fix bland broccoli cheddar soup? 

Do not be afraid to adjust the flavor of the soup by adding salt. Salt really brings the flavor of chicken noodle soup to life. You can also add fresh parsley and chopped herbs to enhance the flavor.