Best Homemade Broccoli Cheese Soup – Creamy, Cheesy & Delicious

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy bowl of broccoli cheese soup to satisfy your comfort food cravings. This rich, flavorful soup is perfect for chilly nights, cozy weekends, or anytime you want a satisfying, homemade meal. Not only is this dish incredibly delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients from fresh broccoli, carrots, and a blend of creamy, cheesy goodness.

In this article, we will provide you with a detailed step-by-step guide on how to make the best homemade broccoli cheese soup that’s even better than what you’d get at a restaurant. We’ll also discuss some expert cooking tips, variations to suit different dietary needs, and common mistakes to avoid.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – This recipe requires only a few basic ingredients and takes just over 30 minutes to prepare.
• Rich and Creamy – The combination of heavy cream, milk, and cheese results in a velvety smooth texture.
• Nutritious – Broccoli is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making this soup both delicious and healthy.
• Customizable – You can tweak the recipe to be vegetarian, keto-friendly, or gluten-free with simple ingredient swaps.
• Perfect for Leftovers – This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients for Broccoli Cheese Soup

Before we get started, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients for this creamy and delicious soup:

Main Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 small onion, diced – Provides a mild, aromatic base.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds depth and savory notes.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the soup.
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth – A flavorful liquid base for the soup.
• 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half – Adds creaminess.
• 2 cups heavy cream – Makes the soup ultra-rich and smooth.
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped – The star ingredient, packed with nutrients.
• 1 large carrot, shredded – Provides a slight sweetness and color contrast.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a touch of spice.
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional) – Gives warmth and depth to the soup.
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese – Provides that signature cheesy taste.
• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese – Adds extra depth and a slightly nutty flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, then sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously. This step helps remove the raw flour taste and thickens the soup later on.

Step 3: Add the Liquid Ingredients

Gradually whisk in the broth to prevent lumps from forming. Then, add the milk and heavy cream, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables and Seasonings

Stir in the broccoli, shredded carrot, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess

Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a stand blender but be careful with the hot liquid.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the warm soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread or homemade croutons for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheese Soup

• Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture. Frozen broccoli works but may result in a slightly watery soup.
• Shred your own cheese instead of using pre-packaged shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
• Don’t boil after adding cheese – High heat can cause the cheese to separate, making the soup grainy.
• For a thicker soup, add an extra tablespoon of flour in Step 2.
• For a thinner soup, add more broth or milk until desired consistency is reached.

FAQs About Broccoli Cheese Soup

1. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this a delicious vegetarian-friendly soup.

2. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

3. Can I freeze broccoli cheese soup?

Yes, but dairy-based soups can separate when frozen. If you plan to freeze it, consider omitting the cheese and adding it when reheating.

4. What can I serve with this soup?

Pair it with crusty bread, garlic bread, crackers, or a side salad for a complete meal.

5. Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Conclusion

This homemade broccoli cheese soup is everything you could want in a comforting, creamy, and flavorful dish. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in, meal prepping for the week, or impressing guests, this soup is always a crowd-pleaser. With the perfect balance of cheesy richness, nutritious veggies, and a velvety texture, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite.

Try this recipe today and enjoy a warm, satisfying bowl of delicious broccoli cheese soup! Don’t forget to experiment with add-ins like crispy bacon, croutons, or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick. Happy cooking!

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