If you’ve ever craved that perfect comfort food bowl that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, then you are going to adore this Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe – Cooking Classy Recipe. This soup blends velvety cheddar cheese with tender broccoli and just the right hint of garlic and nutmeg for a flavor-packed, creamy delight. It’s simple, cozy, and hits all the right notes for a satisfying meal, whether you’re enjoying a quiet night in or sharing with family around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this soup truly shine. Each element plays an essential role—from the rich dairy for creaminess, to the fresh vegetables that bring color and texture. Here’s what you need to make this soup sing.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics for a flavorful base.
- Small yellow onion (finely chopped): Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the soup.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Infuses a lively aroma that pairs perfectly with cheese and broccoli.
- All-purpose flour (¼ cup): Create a roux that thickens the soup to a luscious consistency.
- Low-sodium chicken broth (2 cups): Adds savory notes without overpowering the ingredients.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Contributes to the creamy texture and mild flavor balance.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Brings indulgent smoothness and richness.
- Fresh broccoli florets (4 cups, chopped): The star vegetable, tender and vibrant green.
- Large carrot (1, peeled and shredded): Adds subtle sweetness and a pop of color.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat and depth.
- Ground nutmeg (⅛ teaspoon): A warm spice that complements creamy cheese beautifully.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (2 ½ cups): The rich, tangy heart of the soup that makes it irresistible.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe – Cooking Classy Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by melting butter over medium heat in a large pot. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until it softens into sweet, translucent perfection. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook it for just another 30 seconds to release its fragrance without burning it.
Step 2: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the softened onions and garlic, whisking constantly for 1 to 2 minutes. This little step is crucial—it cooks off the raw flour taste and forms the base that will thicken your soup to the ideal creamy texture.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Veggies
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth first, then gradually blend in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring until the mixture is smooth and silky. Add the chopped broccoli, shredded carrot, salt, black pepper, and a dash of nutmeg. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let the soup cook for 15 to 20 minutes. This is when the broccoli softens just right and the flavors start to meld into that comforting, cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Stir in the Cheese
Remove the pot from the heat and add shredded cheddar cheese little by little, stirring until each handful melts smoothly into the soup. This step transforms the base into a rich, cheesy dream. For a smoother texture, pulse the soup a bit with an immersion blender, or leave it chunky if you love a more rustic feel.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe – Cooking Classy Recipe
Garnishes
Adding the right garnishes elevates both the look and flavor. A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar, crispy bacon bits, or even a swirl of sour cream can add delightful contrast. A few chopped fresh chives or parsley also bring a fresh pop of green and a little bite.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic toast, or warm soft pretzels. A light side salad can balance the richness perfectly and make for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup inside a hollowed-out bread bowl or top each bowl with a mini grilled cheese sandwich cut into bite-sized pieces. These little touches make the experience feel extra special and perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your soup cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You might find the soup thickens as it cools; just add a splash of milk when reheating to bring it back to that perfect creamy consistency.
Freezing
This Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe – Cooking Classy Recipe freezes well. Place the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Note that texture may change slightly due to the dairy, so gently warming and stirring after thawing is important.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning. Add a little milk or broth if it has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’ll still enjoy all the wonderful flavors of this Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe – Cooking Classy Recipe without losing any richness.
What cheese works best for this soup?
Sharp cheddar is the classic choice for its bold flavor and great melting quality. For a subtle twist, try mixing sharp cheddar with mild cheddar or even a bit of Gruyère for a nutty flair.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream?
Heavy cream gives the soup its luxurious texture, but if you prefer a lighter version, use half-and-half or just milk. The soup will still be delicious, just a little less rich.
How can I make the soup thicker or thinner?
To thicken, cook the soup a bit longer uncovered or add a little more flour during the roux stage. To thin it out, simply stir in more broth or milk during reheating.
Can I prepare this soup in advance for a crowd?
You sure can! This recipe is perfect for making ahead and reheating. It’s a crowd-pleaser and stays creamy and flavorful if warmed gently just before serving.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a homemade warm bowl loaded with fresh broccoli and gooey sharp cheddar cheese, and this Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe – Cooking Classy Recipe absolutely delivers. Whether you’re looking for easy weeknight comfort or a delicious dish to impress your loved ones, this recipe is a winner every time. So go ahead, gather your ingredients and make a pot—you’re going to love every spoonful!
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Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe – Cooking Classy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Broccoli Cheese Soup is a creamy, comforting classic made with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy roux base. Perfectly seasoned and easy to prepare on the stovetop, it’s a hearty lunch or dinner option that warms you up with every spoonful.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
Vegetables & Seasoning
- 4 cups chopped fresh broccoli florets
- 1 large carrot, peeled and shredded
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Cheese
- 2 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the butter, onion, and garlic mixture. Whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste, creating a smooth roux.
- Add Liquids: Slowly whisk in the low-sodium chicken broth first, followed by the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the chopped broccoli florets, shredded carrot, salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let the soup cook for 15–20 minutes or until the broccoli is tender.
- Add Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and gradually stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese in batches, allowing each handful to melt completely and create a smooth, creamy texture.
- Optional Blending: For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup until desired consistency is reached. Alternatively, leave the soup chunky for more texture.
- Serve: Ladle the warm soup into bowls and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use a mix of sharp and mild cheddar cheese.
- You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if preferred for a lighter option.
- Leftovers reheat well but may thicken slightly; add a splash of milk when reheating to loosen the consistency.
