SaveBroccoli Cheddar Soup
Thick, velvety broccoli soup loaded with sharp cheddar. Panera who?
Edited by Brian Kaplan·Last updated April 12, 2026
Servings
Est. total: $10.00 · $1.67/serving
Cost estimates are approximate and vary by location, store, season, and brand. Actual prices may differ.
Ingredients
- 6 cup broccoli florets (about 2 large heads)
- 2 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (omit for gluten-free)
- 1 medium carrots (shredded)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
Instructions
- 1
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Cook onion and shredded carrot 4-5 minutes until softened. Add garlic, cook 30 seconds. Sprinkle in flour and stir 1 minute.
3 tbsp unsalted butter1 medium yellow onion1 medium carrots3 cloves garlic3 tbsp all-purpose flour - 2
Gradually whisk in broth, then heavy cream. Add broccoli, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then simmer 15 minutes until broccoli is very tender.
4 cup chicken or vegetable broth1 cup heavy cream6 cup broccoli florets1 tsp salt1/2 tsp black pepper1/4 tsp nutmeg - 3
Blend about two-thirds of the soup with an immersion blender for a creamy base with some broccoli chunks remaining. (Or blend half in a regular blender and return to the pot.)
Leaving some broccoli chunks gives better texture than blending everything smooth.
- 4
Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar cheese a handful at a time until each addition is melted. Do not boil or the cheese will seize. Taste and adjust seasoning.
2 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheeseAdd cheese off the direct heat and stir constantly for the smoothest result.
Pairs With
Oaked Chardonnay
Buttery wine with buttery cheesy soup is indulgent and perfect
Malty amber ale
Caramel and toast notes complement the cheddar
Whiskey, honey, lemon, hot water
Warming and soothing, great on a cold soup night
Make It Yours
Tap a dietary need to see exactly what to swap.
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Cooking Soundtrack
Easy-going rock, country, and the kind of music that pairs with burgers and cold beer.
Nutrition
Per serving. Estimated values. Not a substitute for professional dietary advice.
Tips
- •Use sharp or extra-sharp cheddar — mild cheddar doesn't have enough flavor.
- •A pinch of nutmeg is the secret ingredient that ties everything together.
Substitutions
- sharp cheddar → Velveeta for ultra-smooth (not gourmet, but effective)
- heavy cream → whole milk + 2 tbsp butter
- all-purpose flour → skip and use 1 cup extra potato for thickness (gluten-free)
Leftovers
Refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat very gently on low — high heat makes the cheese grainy.
Leftover Ideas
Nutrition values are estimates calculated per serving and may vary based on brand, preparation method, and serving size. Not a substitute for professional dietary or medical advice. Consult a registered dietitian for specific nutritional needs.
Allergen Notice: Recipes may contain or come into contact with major allergens including milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soy, and sesame. Always verify ingredient labels for allergen information specific to the brands you use.
Drink pairing suggestions are for adults of legal drinking age only. Please drink responsibly.
Food Safety: Follow USDA safe minimum internal temperatures: Poultry 165°F (74°C), Ground meats 165°F (74°C), Beef/pork/lamb steaks 145°F (63°C) with 3-min rest, Fish 145°F (63°C). Use an instant-read thermometer — do not rely on visual cues alone. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.
