
Nothing beats the comfort of a warm bowl of broccoli cheddar soup on a chilly day. This easy broccoli cheddar soup recipe is perfect for those who crave rich, cheesy flavors paired with tender bites of broccoli and a velvety texture. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking beginner, you’ll find this cheddar broccoli soup recipe straightforward and satisfying. Let’s explore what makes this dish so special and how you can bring it to life in your own kitchen.
A Cozy Classic Made Simple
Packed with wholesome ingredients and made in just one pot, this recipe is the epitome of simple yet delicious cooking. With only 165 calories per serving, it’s also a lighter option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. If you’re on a Nutrisystem program, you can count each serving as one PowerFuel, one Extra and one Vegetable serving.
This easy broccoli cheddar soup is a game-changer for weeknight dinners or cozy lunches. The combination of fresh broccoli florets, sweet carrots and creamy cheddar cheese creates a well-balanced flavor that’s both hearty and indulgent. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without feeling like you’re compromising on comfort food.
One of the best parts? It’s incredibly quick to prepare. With minimal prep work and about 30 minutes of cook time, this soup can easily become a staple in your meal rotation. It’s also versatile enough to be served as a main dish or a side, depending on your preference.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Making broccoli cheddar soup from scratch is easier than you might think. This recipe starts with a base of sautéed onions and garlic, which build a rich, aromatic foundation. From there, a touch of whole wheat flour is added.
The next step involves stirring in low-fat milk and vegetable broth, creating a luscious liquid base that’s both creamy and light. Fresh or frozen broccoli florets and julienned carrots are added, bringing a pop of color and a boost of nutrition. After simmering everything together until tender, reduced-fat cheddar cheese is melted in for that classic cheesy flavor.
For those wondering how to make broccoli cheddar soup even creamier, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender before adding the cheese. This technique ensures a smooth texture while leaving some chunks of broccoli for added substance.
What to Serve with Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This easy broccoli cheddar soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Crusty homemade bread or garlic bread are ideal for dipping into the creamy broth, while a fresh green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a baked potato or a turkey sandwich.
If you’re hosting a dinner party or family gathering, this cheddar broccoli soup recipe can also be part of a multi-course menu. Serve it as a starter before a roasted chicken or grilled salmon main course for an elevated dining experience.
Customization Ideas
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to get creative and make it your own:
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Make It Heartier: Stir in cooked quinoa, brown rice or diced chicken for added protein and substance.
- Use Different Cheeses: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with Gruyère, Parmesan or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor twist.
- Add More Veggies: Enhance the nutritional profile by including chopped spinach, kale or cauliflower.
- Go Gluten-Free: Swap the whole wheat flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the soup.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
This soup is perfect for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth or milk if needed to restore its creamy consistency.
For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as desired.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
Unlike many store-bought or restaurant versions, this easy broccoli cheddar soup recipe is made with wholesome ingredients you can feel good about. It avoids heavy creams and uses reduced-fat cheese, making it a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. The addition of Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang, enhancing the cheesy richness.
This easy broccoli cheddar soup is a must-try for anyone who loves comforting, homemade meals. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that delivers big on taste and nutrition.
Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight or serving it at a special gathering, this cheddar broccoli soup recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Don’t wait—grab your ingredients and savor the deliciousness of this classic dish today!
Servings: 8
Calories per Serving: 165
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 PowerFuel, 1 Extra and 1 Vegetable
Ingredients:
- 2 Tbsp. light butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup whole wheat flour
- 2 cups 1% milk
- 2 cups vegetable broth, low sodium
- 2 carrots, julienned
- 2 cups chopped broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- ½ tsp. Dijon mustard
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, reduced fat
Directions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add onions and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add flour and stir to coat, then add milk and stir to thicken.
- Add broth, carrots, broccoli, Dijon mustard and black pepper. Heat to a boil, then turn down heat to a simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in the cheese. Add more broth to thin out as needed.