If you’re dreaming of a bowl of pure comfort, creamy texture, and cheesy goodness, the Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe will instantly become your new favorite. Imagine tender broccoli, sweet carrots, and sharp cheddar all coming together in a luxuriously rich base with just the right touch of warmth from nutmeg. It’s the perfect blend of homestyle nostalgia and restaurant-worthy flavor, ready in less time than it takes to get takeout. This soup is my go-to when I need something hearty to warm up chilly nights, but honestly, it’s just as satisfying on any day you crave coziness in a bowl.

Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best thing about the Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe is how each ingredient truly shines. These simple, straightforward components blend for irresistible taste, velvety texture, and vibrant color — and every bite feels like a burst of comfort.

Butter: Start your soup with butter for that signature savory richness and to sauté the aromatics perfectly.
Onion (diced): Brings gentle sweetness and a subtle foundation of flavor.
Garlic (minced): Adds aromatic depth and a little kick that brightens every spoonful.
All-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the base and creating that creamy, satisfying texture.
Vegetable or chicken broth: Choose your favorite for extra flavor; both options keep the soup light yet full-bodied.
Whole milk: Contributes to a creamy body without being too heavy.
Heavy cream: Adds luxurious silkiness and the ultimate in creamy comfort.
Broccoli florets (chopped): The star ingredient! Bright, green, full-flavored, and packed with nutrients.
Carrot (shredded or thinly sliced): Gives lovely sweetness, subtle crunch, and beautiful color contrast.
Sharp cheddar cheese (shredded): Melts into velvety goodness and delivers that unmistakable, craveable cheese flavor.
Ground nutmeg (optional): Just a pinch brings cozy warmth and enhances the soup’s richness.
Salt and black pepper: Vital for balancing and elevating every flavor in the pot.

How to Make Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Begin this soup by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once it starts to foam, toss in your diced onion and let it sauté for 3 to 4 minutes. The onions should look translucent and smell irresistible. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute. This duo lays the foundation for the Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe, building flavor right from the start.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over your soft onions and garlic. Now, whisk constantly for about 1 to 2 minutes. You’re looking for a lightly golden mixture that smells toasty but not burnt — this roux is your creamy backbone! It’s easy to master and makes your soup thick and luscious.

Step 3: Add Liquids

Slowly pour in the broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Follow with milk and cream, still stirring. This step is where everything starts to come together: you’ll notice it transform into a smooth, velvety soup base, primed for all that broccoli goodness.

Step 4: Simmer with Vegetables

Stir in the chopped broccoli and shredded carrot. Let the soup simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes. The veggies will become perfectly tender, and you’ll see the rich, appetizing color develop. Don’t rush — this time lets every flavor marry together while keeping the carrots satisfyingly crisp-tender.

Step 5: Blend to Desired Texture

If you like your Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe silky-smooth, use an immersion blender to blend part (or all) of the soup right in the pot. Prefer a bit more bite? Leave as many broccoli florets whole as you like. You control the mix, so make it just right for you.

Step 6: Melt in the Cheese and Season

Turn the heat low, then gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring gently until it’s melted and the soup is beautifully creamy — no gritty bits allowed! Taste, then season with salt, black pepper, and a hint of nutmeg if you like. Your Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe is now ready to serve!

How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Top each bowl with extra cheddar, a scatter of fresh cracked black pepper, or chopped chives for a vivid, herby finish. If you’re a spice lover, a dash of cayenne or a small drizzle of hot sauce over the Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe can send it right over the top.

Side Dishes

This cozy soup pairs beautifully with hearty, crusty bread (perfect for dipping!) or a crisp green salad to freshen things up. Flaky biscuits, garlic knots, or even a grilled cheese sandwich alongside the Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe make for one seriously satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, ladle your soup into hollowed-out bread bowls or serve in small mugs for dipping. A sprinkle of toasted seeds or lightly pan-fried broccoli florets on top adds crunch and a restaurant-worthy flair, turning your Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe into a true showstopper.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover soup to airtight containers as soon as it cools. The Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, which means you’ll have lunch or an easy dinner on standby all week.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup with good results, though keep in mind that dairy-based soups may separate slightly when reheated. Let your Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe cool completely, store in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Warm your soup gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring often to prevent sticking or curdling. If the soup thickens too much after chilling or freezing, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up until it’s silky-smooth again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works perfectly in this recipe. Just toss it in directly from the freezer. No need to thaw, although you may want to extend the simmering time by a couple minutes until the broccoli is nice and tender.

What’s the best cheese to use for Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe?

A good sharp cheddar cheese is the classic choice — its bold, tangy flavor and shreddable texture make it ideal for melting. Always grate it yourself for the smoothest result, as pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can lead to grainy soup.

How can I make the soup lighter?

For a lighter version of the Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even extra milk. You’ll still get creaminess, just with less richness and fewer calories.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour for the regular flour. Many blends work well, and your soup will be just as thick and satisfying. Check that your broth is gluten-free too if you’re serving someone with allergies.

Is the nutmeg necessary?

Nutmeg is optional, but even a tiny pinch enhances the creaminess and coziness of the Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe beautifully. If you’re not a fan, simply leave it out — the soup will still taste wonderful!

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to whip up this Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe at home! There’s something so genuinely soul-soothing about a steamy, cheesy bowl packed with veggies, and once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again. Grab your favorite pot and dive into some homemade comfort — your tastebuds will thank you!

Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 15 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a comforting bowl of Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup, a rich and satisfying dish perfect for chilly days. This homemade soup combines tender broccoli florets, shredded carrot, and sharp cheddar cheese in a creamy base seasoned with nutmeg. Serve with crusty bread for a delightful meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Broth:

2 tablespoons butter
1 small onion (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)

Roux:

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Liquid:

2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream

Veggies:

4 cups chopped broccoli florets
1 large carrot (shredded or thinly sliced)

Cheese and Seasoning:

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Saute Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until soft. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Create Roux: Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes to create a roux.
Add Liquid: Slowly whisk in the broth, then add the milk and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer while stirring to avoid lumps.
Cook Veggies: Add the broccoli and carrot and cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Cheese and Seasoning: Use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup if desired, or leave it chunky. Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using.
Serve: Serve hot and enjoy!