Broccoli cheese soup is the ultimate comfort food, and for good reason. It’s warm, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Growing up, the idea of a creamy soup always brought a smile to my face, and broccoli cheese soup held a special place in that cozy food hierarchy. There’s something undeniably satisfying about the rich, velvety texture and the comforting taste that makes it perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a little bit of home-style goodness. This recipe captures that classic, heartwarming essence, reminiscent of the kind of delicious, straightforward cooking you might expect from the Pioneer Woman herself.
Overhead shot of broccoli cheese soup in bowls
Have you ever enjoyed soup so much you wished you could eat the bowl too? That’s the magic of a bread bowl! The first time I had broccoli cheese soup in a bread bowl, it felt like such a novel and fun way to eat. Presenting soup in an edible bowl adds an element of delight, especially for kids. It turns a simple meal into a bit of an adventure. Imagine serving this creamy broccoli cheese soup in crusty bread bowls – it’s a guaranteed hit for the whole family.
Broccoli cheese soup in bread bowls
Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
This broccoli cheese soup recipe is incredibly easy to make and delivers a rich, flavorful result every time. Perfect for a quick lunch or a comforting dinner, it’s a family-friendly meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Course: Lunch, Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4
Author: Catherine McCord (Inspired by classic flavors)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 small onion, diced
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup half and half
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 heads broccoli, cut into florets
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
- Bread loaves for bowls (optional, but highly recommended)
Instructions
- Sauté the Onion: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until softened.
- Create a Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the softened onions. Use a whisk to thoroughly combine the flour and butter, creating a roux. Cook this mixture for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Add Liquids: Gradually pour in the whole milk and half-and-half, whisking continuously to ensure a smooth sauce. Continue whisking until the mixture is well combined and begins to slightly thicken.
- Season and Simmer: Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and ground nutmeg. Stir to incorporate the seasonings.
- Cook the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the soup. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let the soup simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the soup has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Adjust Consistency: Stir in the chicken broth. Check the soup’s thickness. If it seems too thick, add a splash more chicken broth to reach the perfect creamy texture.
- Melt the Cheese: Add the grated sharp cheddar cheese to the soup. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and cheesy.
- Serve: Ladle the broccoli cheese soup into bowls, or for an extra special touch, serve in bread bowls. Enjoy hot!
Recipe Notes
- For a Smoother Soup: If you prefer an ultra-smooth texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup before adding the cheddar cheese. This will create a velvety smooth consistency, perfect for those who like a creamier soup.
- Cheese Variations: While sharp cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheddar and Gruyere can add different flavor dimensions to your soup.
- Serving Suggestions: This soup is delicious on its own, but it’s also fantastic with a side salad or crusty bread for dipping. Serving it in bread bowls elevates it to a fun and satisfying meal. A sprinkle of extra shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream on top can also add a nice finishing touch.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 565kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 38g | Saturated Fat: 22g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 109mg | Sodium: 518mg | Potassium: 1.296mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 3.081IU | Vitamin C: 273mg | Calcium: 667mg | Iron: 3mg
Close up of broccoli cheese soup in a white bowl with a spoon
Enjoy this comforting and cheesy broccoli soup – it’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
