Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup

Something is warming about a made-from-scratch soup. This broccoli cheddar soup recipe is unlike any store version and is so much better than Panera’s. It’s creamy without being heavy, and every bite is packed with flavor. Serve this soup with garlic croutons.

If you love warm and cozy recipes like this one, try my cheesy rice and broccoli casserole, my southwest chicken soup, my creamy sausage and tortellini soup, and my chicken dumplings recipe. They are all perfect weeknight meals that everyone loves.

💗 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy: Perfect for weeknight meals when you want something hearty and simple.
• Flavorful: Creamy, Cheesy, and tender vegetables in every bite.
• Simple Ingredients: Fresh, easy-to-find ingredients.
• Better than Takeout: Skip the restaurant, this beats Panera any day. Add some baked croutons for added flavor and crunch.

📖 Recipe Variations

• Add Bacon: Crumble crispy bacon over each bowl.
• Spice it Up: Add a few sprinkles of cayenne pepper for an added kick of heat to this broccoli and cheddar soup.
• Mix the Cheeses: Try a mixture of Sharp Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or White Cheddar for a twist.

🔪 How to Make Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Prep the vegetables. Chop the broccoli, shred the carrots, and dice the onion.

Step 2: Melt the butter and oil. In a large soup pot over medium heat, melt the butter with the oil.

Step 3: Once the butter has melted, add the veggies. Add the onion and the carrots and cook until the onions are translucent, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 4: Add garlic. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 2 minutes.

Step 5: Add flour. Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 6: Add broth and seasonings. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth along with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Bring to a boil.

Step 7: Add milk and cream. Pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring well to combine.

Step 8: Add broccoli. Stir in the chopped broccoli. Return to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender.

Step 9: Add the cheese. Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 10: Serve. Ladle into bowls and enjoy with toasted bread or croutons!

💭 Pro Tips

• Grate your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can make your soup grainy.
• Cut broccoli into small pieces. Smaller pieces cook faster and blend better into the creamy base.
• Add the cheese and stir until melted. Remove immediately from the heat. The heat can cause the cheese to separate or curdle.