Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is warm, creamy, and packed with delicious flavors. It’s a perfect dish for chilly days and is sure to please both kids and adults. Made with simple ingredients, this comforting soup is easy to whip up in no time.

Why Make This Recipe

Making this Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a great choice because it brings together familiar flavors in a simple way. You can enjoy a bowl of comfort while getting your daily dose of vegetables. This soup is not only tasty but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Plus, who can resist cheesy goodness?

How to Make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Ingredients:

5 tbsp unsalted butter
½ onion (chopped)
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken stock
1 celery stalk (finely diced)
2½ cups broccoli (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
2 cups whole milk
2 cups shredded cheddar
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar for topping

Directions:

Place a large pot over medium heat and melt the butter.
Add the chopped onion and sweat for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft.
Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring well.
Stir in the chicken stock and season generously with salt and pepper.
Add the diced celery and chopped broccoli, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer until the vegetables are tender, which should take about 15 minutes.
Stir in the milk and continue to simmer until the soup thickens enough to coat the back of a wooden spoon, around 2 to 3 minutes. The soup should still have a ‘soupy’ texture.
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese a little at a time, waiting for it to melt before adding more.
Season with additional salt and pepper if desired, and top with more shredded cheddar. Serve hot.

How to Serve Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serve the soup warm in bowls. It pairs well with crusty bread or crackers on the side. You can also add a sprinkle of extra cheddar on top for an even cheesier experience.

How to Store Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of milk to get the right consistency back.

Tips to Make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture.
If you like a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend it to your desired consistency.
Feel free to mix in other veggies like carrots or potatoes for added nutrition.

Variation

You can make this soup vegetarian by substituting chicken stock with vegetable stock. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking.

FAQs

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, pre-shredded cheese works fine, but freshly shredded cheese generally melts better and gives a smoother texture.

How can I make this soup healthier?
To make it healthier, consider using low-fat milk and reducing the amount of cheese. You can also add more vegetables for extra nutrients!