Broccoli cheddar soup is the ultimate comfort food that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of everyday ingredients and a few simple steps, you can whip up a creamy, cheesy bowl of goodness in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend treat.
This quick & easy version skips the fuss without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re feeding the whole family or need a solo lunch fix, these seven steps will guide you from chopping board to steaming bowl in record time. Let’s dive in!
1. Gather Your Quick & Easy Ingredients
Before you fire up the stove, make sure you have everything on hand. This prevents last-minute grocery runs and keeps the process smooth.
What You’ll Need
– 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, for convenience)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
– 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
– Salt and pepper, to taste
2. Prep the Broccoli
A good soup starts with properly prepared broccoli—tender but still bright green.
Quick Chop
Cut fresh florets into bite-size pieces. If using frozen broccoli, thaw it under cold water and drain well.
Steaming Option
For extra tenderness, steam broccoli for 3–4 minutes before adding to the soup pot. This step is optional but helps ensure even cooking.
3. Build a Flavorful Base
A savory base sets the stage for your cheese and broccoli to shine.
Sauté Onions and Garlic
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent (about 3 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Make the Roux
Sprinkle flour over the onion-garlic mixture, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden—this removes the raw flour taste.
4. Combine Broccoli and Broth
This is where your soup starts to take shape.
Simmer Until Tender
Slowly whisk in broth and milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add broccoli. Cook for 8–10 minutes until broccoli is tender.
Adjust Consistency
If the soup is too thick, add a splash more broth or milk. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a few minutes longer to reduce.
5. Stir in Sharp Cheddar Cheese
The cheese is the star of the show—use a high-quality, sharp cheddar for best results.
Grate Fresh Cheddar
Avoid pre-shredded cheese (it contains anti-caking agents). Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly.
Melt Gently
Remove pot from heat and stir in cheese a handful at a time, stirring until each addition is fully melted and incorporated.
6. Season to Taste
Proper seasoning elevates simple ingredients.
Salt, Pepper, and Spices
Start with a pinch of salt and a few grinds of black pepper. Taste and adjust. For a little kick, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika.
Optional Add-Ins
Stir in a dash of nutmeg for warmth, or top with crispy bacon bits for texture.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Your soup is ready—now for the fun part.
Quick Serving Ideas
Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra cheddar, chopped chives, or a drizzle of cream. Serve with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches.
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to revive the creaminess.
With these seven simple steps, you can enjoy a rich, comforting bowl of broccoli cheddar soup anytime. This quick & easy recipe proves that homemade soup doesn’t need to be complicated—just a little butter, cheese, and love. Grab a spoon and dig in!