This rich and creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food, packed with the goodness of fresh broccoli, hearty potatoes, and melty cheddar cheese.
The blend of butter, garlic, and onions creates a flavorful base, while the sharp cheddar adds a deliciously tangy and creamy texture.
With optional seasonings like Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper, you can customize the soup to your taste.
Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup pairs well with crusty bread or a warm sandwich, making it a satisfying meal for the whole family.
Ingredients:
For the Soup Base:
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups broccoli florets, chopped
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth of flavor)
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Add-Ins:
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a smoky touch)
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for heat)
To store Broccoli Cheddar Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the soup in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months, but note that dairy-based soups may separate upon thawing.
To reheat, warm the soup over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent the cheese from curdling.
If reheating from frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before warming.
Adding a splash of milk or broth while reheating can help restore its creamy texture.
For a unique twist on Broccoli Cheddar Soup, try adding cooked bacon or shredded chicken for extra protein.
You can also swap the potatoes for cauliflower to make it lower in carbs or use a mix of cheeses like gouda or parmesan for a richer flavor.
For a lighter version, replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
To ensure a smooth texture, blend the soup using an immersion blender or a regular blender in batches.
If the soup thickens too much while cooling, simply add a little broth or milk when reheating.
Serve with crusty bread for the perfect cozy meal!
A serving of Broccoli Cheddar Soup (about 1 cup) typically contains 250–350 calories, depending on the ingredients used.
It provides around 10–15 grams of carbohydrates, mainly from potatoes and broccoli, and 8–12 grams of protein, thanks to the cheddar cheese and broth.
The heavy cream and cheese contribute to the fat content, which ranges from 15–25 grams per serving.
Broccoli adds essential nutrients like fiber, vitamin C, and calcium, making this soup both delicious and nutritious.
To reduce calories and fat, opt for milk instead of heavy cream and use a lighter cheese or blend in more vegetables for added fiber.