Description
This 20-Minute Broccoli Cheese Soup is a creamy, cheesy, and cozy comfort meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with tender broccoli and melty cheddar, it’s a one-pot wonder that’s quick, easy, and kid-friendly. Ideal for soup lovers searching for fast dinner ideas or hearty vegetarian meals.
Ingredients
4 tablespoons butter
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
1 cup shredded carrots (optional)
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
2. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly to form a roux. Cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
3. Slowly whisk in the milk and broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, whisking frequently until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add broccoli florets and shredded carrots. Simmer for 6–7 minutes, or until broccoli is tender.
5. Lower the heat. Gradually stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add heavy cream and stir to combine.
6. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or herbs if desired.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Make it lighter by substituting half-and-half or evaporated milk for heavy cream.
For extra richness, add a splash of white wine while cooking the onion.
Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for the smoothest melt—pre-shredded cheese may cause graininess.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid curdling.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 85mg