The Ultimate Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy Goodness
Broccoli cheddar soup – just saying the name makes me hungry! This classic soup has it all: creamy texture, cheesy flavour, and chunks of tender broccoli that feel like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether it’s soup season or you’re simply craving some comfort food, this broccoli cheddar soup recipe is the answer. And the best part? It’s so easy to make that even first-time soup makers will feel like pros.
In this post, I’ll walk you through how to whip up the creamiest, dreamiest broccoli cheddar soup ever. Plus, we’ll dive into all those burning questions: Is broccoli cheddar soup gluten-free? How many calories does it have? Can you make it thicker or customise it to your liking? Let’s get cooking!

Why This Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe Is a Must-Try
Let me tell you why this recipe has become one of my all-time favourite things to make. It’s not just any soup, it’s packed with sharp cheddar cheese, fresh broccoli, and a creamy base that’s irresistibly good. Plus, it’s super versatile. Whether you’re looking for a healthier version or want to go all out with crusty bread or a bread bowl (Panera Bread vibes, anyone?), this soup delivers every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s the full recipe breakdown with a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen:
- 1 head of broccoli, chopped (use both florets and broccoli stems for maximum flavour)
- 1 carrot, grated (for a hint of sweetness and colour)
- 1 cup heavy cream (you can substitute with whole milk for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for richness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (garlic powder works too in a pinch!)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar is best, but mild cheddar or a mix with Monterey Jack also works!)
- 2 ½ cups vegetable or chicken broth (homemade chicken broth or low-sodium vegetable stock are great options)
- 1 potato, diced (adds a creamy texture without extra cream)

Optional add-ins: a pinch of Dijon mustard, a bay leaf for depth, or a sprinkle of pepper jack cheese for a little kick.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Serves: 3 (or two very hungry people!)
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Grab your large pot or Dutch oven and melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. This step fills your kitchen with the most amazing aroma, I’m always tempted to stop right here and make garlic bread instead, ha!
Step 2: Add the Cream and Broth
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a low simmer. Next, add the vegetable or chicken broth. Stir everything together and let it heat gently over medium-low heat.
Step 3: Toss in the Veggies
Add the chopped broccoli, grated carrot, and diced potato to the pot. Stir well and let it simmer on medium-low heat for about 25-30 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender throughout. If you’re using broccoli stalks, be sure to dice them into small pieces so they cook evenly.
Step 4: Blend for Creaminess
Here’s where the magic happens! Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you like a chunkier soup with bits of broccoli, you can blend just half the mixture or use a potato masher for a rustic texture. Don’t have an immersion blender? A food processor works too (just let the soup cool slightly first).
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, one small handful at a time. This prevents a grainy texture and ensures the cheese melts smoothly into the soup. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the creamy broccoli cheddar soup into bowls and garnish with extra grated cheese or a sprinkle of garlic powder. Serve it with crusty bread, focaccia, or even in a bread bowl for ultimate cheesy goodness which is the way I like to serve it. Yum!

FAQs About Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Is Broccoli Cheddar Soup Gluten-Free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your broth and cheese are gluten-free. Just double-check any pre-shredded cheese or broth labels to avoid hidden gluten ingredients.
How Many Calories Are in Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
This broccoli cheddar soup has approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on your exact ingredients. Using whole milk instead of heavy cream can reduce the calorie count.
What Are the Carbs in Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
This soup contains about 20-25 grams of carbs per serving, mainly from the potato and broccoli. For a lower-carb option, swap the potato with cauliflower.
Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Use Fresh Broccoli: While frozen broccoli works in a pinch, fresh broccoli florets and stems provide the best flavour and texture.
- Choose the Right Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese gives the soup its signature cheesy flavour, but you can mix in mild cheddar or even Monterey Jack for a creamier base.
- Avoid Grainy Texture: Always add cheese over low heat and in small handfuls, stirring continuously.
- Customise the Thickness: For a thicker soup, reduce the broth slightly or add a bit more potato. For a thinner soup, add extra broth.
- Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Slow Cooker Version: Combine all the ingredients except cheese in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then blend and add cheese.
- Instant Pot Broccoli Cheese Soup: Sauté the garlic using the sauté function, then add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Blend, add cheese, and serve.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the potato with cauliflower and use a lighter cheese like pepper jack.
- Extra Veggies: Add yellow onion, celery, or even a handful of spinach for more nutrients.
Pairings and Serving Suggestions
This broccoli cheddar soup is incredible on its own, but pairing it with a side can take it to the next level. Here are my favourites:
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy base.
- Bread Bowl: Channel your inner Panera Bread with this fun serving style.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar balances the richness of the soup.
- Sandwich: Pair with a grilled cheese or turkey sandwich for a hearty meal.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a great recipe to make creamy broccoli cheddar soup at home, this is it! It’s a great way to warm up on a cold day, impress guests with a classic soup, or simply enjoy a bowl of cheesy goodness with your family. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself coming back to it time and time again.
Next time, I might experiment with adding sour cream or Dijon mustard for a tangy twist. What about you? Let me know how your broccoli cheddar soup turns out in the comments below. Happy cooking!
Caryl Ann