Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Name: Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups fresh broccoli florets; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up with this creamy and flavorful Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup, perfect for chilly days and a delightful addition to any meal.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-30T10:37:55.755Z

This Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a family favorite, combining fresh broccoli with rich cheddar cheese for a satisfying meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that warms your soul
Rich cheese flavor complemented by fresh broccoli
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

When the weather turns chilly, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort and joy. This Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup embodies all the qualities of a classic comfort food, combining creamy textures with rich flavors. It's not just a meal; it's a cozy experience that wraps you in warmth, making it ideal for cold evenings or a satisfying lunch.

Broccoli, known for its health benefits, is the star ingredient in this recipe. Packed with vitamins and minerals, it not only adds nutritional value but also a beautiful green color to the soup. Paired with the melted cheddar cheese, this dish strikes the perfect balance between nutritious and indulgent, ensuring you feel good about what you're eating.

A Quick and Easy Recipe

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a delicious meal can be challenging. This Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup is incredibly quick and easy to make, taking only about 30-40 minutes from start to finish. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

The use of fresh broccoli and minimal prep time means you can whip up this soup even on the busiest days. Whether you're cooking for yourself or for the whole family, this recipe is versatile enough to cater to all appetites, making it a go-to option when you need a nourishing meal in a hurry.

Serving Suggestions

While the Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup is delightful on its own, there are plenty of ways to elevate your dining experience. Consider serving it with a warm, crusty bread for dipping, or alongside a fresh garden salad to add a crunchy texture. These accompaniments not only enhance the meal but also make it more filling and satisfying.

For a bit of extra flavor, top your soup with additional shredded cheddar cheese or a sprinkle of croutons before serving. Fresh herbs such as parsley or chives can also add a pop of color and freshness. These simple garnishes can transform your soup into a restaurant-worthy dish right at home!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious soup:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups fresh broccoli florets
3 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the Broccoli

Stir in the broccoli florets and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer to a blender and blend in batches.

Add Cream and Cheese

Return the blended soup to the pot, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook over low heat until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve hot with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! This Comfort Broccoli Cheddar Soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. It can be stored in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. When reheating frozen soup, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results, then gently reheat on the stove. Just remember that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but the delicious flavor will remain intact!

Nutritional Benefits

Broccoli is not just a tasty ingredient; it's also a superfood packed with nutrients. Rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, broccoli supports a healthy immune system and promotes overall well-being. Including it in this soup means you're not only enjoying a creamy, cheesy delight but also bolstering your intake of essential nutrients.

Furthermore, the heavy cream and cheddar cheese provide a good source of calcium, which is important for bone health. While this soup is indulgent, it also brings a balance of flavors and nutrients that make it a wholesome choice for any meal. Enjoying a bowl of this soup means nourishing your body while relishing comforting flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the soup.

→ How can I make this soup healthier?

You can use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs nicely with a side salad or a sandwich for a complete meal.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.