. 1. First, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. 2. Next, add 1 medium diced onion. Sauté it until it turns soft and clear, about 5 minutes. 3. Then, stir in 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook for 1-2 minutes more until you smell that lovely garlic scent. 4. Now, add 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets and 2 diced carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. 5. Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. The veggies should be nice and tender. 1. After the veggies are soft, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it is smooth and creamy. 2. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches. Be careful with the hot liquid! 3. Once blended, return the soup to low heat. Add in 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. 4. Stir in 1 teaspoon of onion powder and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Mix until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy. 1. Now, taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Adjust as needed. 2. For a nice touch, serve the soup hot. You can add croutons and chopped parsley on top if you like. For the complete recipe details, check the Full Recipe. To boost the flavor of your soup, consider adding spices like nutmeg or cayenne. Both spices add warmth and depth. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can brighten the dish. You can also use different cheeses. Try gouda for a smoky taste or pepper jack for spice. Each cheese brings a new flavor twist. If your soup seems too thick, add a bit more broth or cream. Stir slowly until you reach your desired creaminess. If it's too thin, let it simmer a little longer. Blending techniques matter too. Use an immersion blender for a quick and easy blend. If using a regular blender, let it cool slightly before blending. Always fill the blender halfway to avoid splatters. This soup pairs well with crusty bread like sourdough or baguette. A fresh salad also complements the richness of the soup. You can add some croutons on top for crunch. They add texture and are fun to eat with the creamy soup. Enjoy this cozy dish with a warm side for a perfect meal. {{image_2}} To make a lighter version of creamy broccoli cheddar soup, you can swap out some ingredients. Use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream. This keeps the soup creamy but reduces the fat. Another option is to add a little Greek yogurt for creaminess. For a vegan option, replace cheese and cream with cashew cream or coconut milk. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without dairy. You can boost the nutrition of your soup by adding more vegetables. Sweet potatoes or bell peppers work well. They add color and flavor. You can also toss in some spinach or kale for extra greens. For toppings, consider crunchy croutons or toasted seeds. Fresh herbs like chives or basil can add brightness and flavor. Using seasonal veggies can make your soup even better. In spring, add asparagus or peas for a fresh taste. In fall, try adding roasted butternut squash for sweetness. Using seasonal ingredients not only enhances flavor but also supports local farms. This way, you make a cozy dish that feels fresh and special. For the full recipe, check out the link below. To store leftover soup properly, let it cool first. Use an airtight container for best results. Place the container in the fridge. The soup will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, make sure to check for any signs of spoilage before eating. To freeze the soup, let it cool completely. Pour the soup into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. Seal the containers tightly. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it slowly on the stove for best texture. Reheating soup can be tricky if you want to keep it creamy. Use a pot on low heat, stirring gently. Avoid boiling, as this can change the texture. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of broth or cream. Stir until it’s hot and smooth, ready to serve again. How long does it take to make? It takes about 40 minutes to make this soup from start to finish. The prep time is around 10 minutes, and cooking takes about 30 minutes. You will enjoy a warm, cozy soup in no time! Can I make it in advance? Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, gently reheat it on the stove. What can I replace heavy cream with? You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter option. For a dairy-free choice, try coconut milk or a nut-based cream. Each option will still give you a creamy texture. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this soup. Just adjust the cooking time since frozen broccoli may cook faster. It’s a great option if fresh broccoli isn't available. Is this soup gluten-free? Yes, this creamy broccoli cheddar soup is gluten-free. All the ingredients, like vegetable broth and cheese, do not contain gluten. Always check labels to be sure! Information on dairy-free variations To make a dairy-free version, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese. This way, you can enjoy a creamy soup without any dairy. This blog post covered everything you need for delicious creamy broccoli cheddar soup. We shared the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to enhance flavors. You learned about variations and how to store your soup for later. Creating this dish is simple and satisfying. Whether you enjoy it with crusty bread or make healthier swaps, this soup will please your taste buds. Enjoy making this tasty recipe, and share it with friends or family!](https://goodsouppot.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/c103580a-a81a-4661-9cf4-43867ae91975-250x250.webp)
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Dive into the comforting goodness of Cheesy Broccoli Bliss Soup! This creamy and satisfying recipe features fresh broccoli, carrots, and sharp cheddar, perfect for chilly days or a cozy dinner. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you'll have a delicious bowl ready in just 40 minutes. Click through to explore this delightful recipe and warm your soul with every spoonful of cheesy goodness!