Warm up with this easy Broccoli Cheese Soup, made right in a Dutch oven in under 30 minutes! Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with fresh broccoli, it’s perfect served in a bread bowl for an extra cozy touch.
I love a hearty bowl of soup on a chilly day, and this Dutch oven broccoli cheese soup hits the spot. It’s simple enough to make on busy weeknights, yet rich and creamy enough for special occasions. Loaded with tender broccoli, sharp cheddar, and a touch of butter, this easy cheesy broccoli soup is comfort food you’ll want again and again.
Looking for more cozy recipes to warm you up? Try our roasted poblano corn chowder or hearty Dutch oven chili for more comforting flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Stress-Free: This easy broccoli cheddar soup comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Cheesy: Creamy and comforting, this simple broccoli and cheese soup is loaded with sharp cheddar in every bite.
- Family-Friendly: Mild, flavorful, and sure to please everyone, this tasty soup is one the whole family will love. For another family favorite, check out this bacon cheeseburger casserole.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with basic ingredients, this easy cheese and broccoli soup delivers a hearty, satisfying meal without overspending.
Ingredients
- Broccoli: Use fresh or frozen broccoli florets. Broccoli adds texture, color, and nutrition to the soup. If you love broccoli, don't miss my Dutch oven cranberry cashew broccoli recipe.
- Onion: A medium yellow or white onion works best. Diced finely, it provides a savory base flavor and balances the richness of the cheese.
- Milk: Whole milk gives the richest, creamiest texture, but 2% works too. Bring it close to room temperature to prevent curdling when added to the roux.
- Chicken Broth: Adds depth of flavor to the soup. Use low-sodium if you want to control the saltiness.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar works great for a punch of flavor. Grate it yourself for smoother melting and a creamier soup.
See the recipe card below for exact ingredient amounts, nutritional information, and detailed instructions.
Variations
- Add Cauliflower: Mix in cauliflower florets along with broccoli for a subtle flavor boost and extra creaminess.
- Smoky Flavor: Stir in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or use smoked cheddar. Adds a warm, smoky flavor perfect for fall or winter meals.
- Spicy Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Introduce a kick by adding diced roasted poblano peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper. This variation adds depth and heat to the traditional flavor.
- Loaded Veggie Broccoli Cheese Soup: Boost flavor and nutrition by adding a mix of finely chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers. For another veggie-packed meal, try my ground beef stew next.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This easy recipe for broccoli cheese soup comes together quickly and is perfect for a cozy weeknight meal. Before you start, steam the broccoli until just tender and have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go.
Step 1: Sauté the Onion. In a Dutch oven, melt a little butter and cook the diced onion until soft and fragrant. This builds the flavorful base for the soup.
Step 2: Make the Roux. Melt more butter in the Dutch oven, stir in flour, and slowly whisk in the milk and chicken broth. Cook until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.
Step 3: Add the Broccoli, Onions, and Cheese. Stir the steamed broccoli, sautéed onion, and cheese into the sauce. Let it cook for a few minutes so the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Season and Enjoy. Season with salt and pepper, taste, and adjust if needed. Serve warm with more cheese or some fresh herbs with a slice of homemade Dutch oven bread.
Expert Tips
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Steam the broccoli just until tender, not mushy. Overcooked broccoli can alter the soup's texture and alter the vibrant green color.
- Use Room Temperature Milk: Adding cold milk directly to a hot roux can cause curdling. Bring the milk close to room temperature for a smooth, creamy soup.
- Grate the Cheese Yourself: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the soup's texture. Grating the cheese yourself creates a smoother, creamier consistency.
- Store Properly: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this cheesy broccoli soup for a cozy weeknight dinner with some warm cast iron garlic bread for dipping.
- It’s perfect for lunch, especially when paired with a fresh garden salad and some old-fashioned buttermilk biscuits.
- Bring it to potlucks or family gatherings, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make in large batches, and pair it with some tasty garlic bread.
- For a fun twist, serve in bread bowls with toppings like crispy bacon, croutons, or extra shredded cheese.
Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe FAQs
Simmer the soup a few extra minutes uncovered to reduce liquid, or whisk in a small flour or cornstarch slurry with cold milk until it reaches your desired thickness
Yes, sauté the onions first, then add them with broccoli, broth, and seasonings to the slow cooker. Cook on low 3–4 hours, then stir in the milk and cheese at the end for a creamy finish.
While you can freeze the soup, just note that the texture may change upon thawing due to the dairy content. To minimize this, cool the soup completely before freezing and reheat gently.
More Delicious Soup Recipes
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Get the Recipe
Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup
Equipment
- 5 quart Dutch Oven
Ingredients
- 16 oz broccoli
- 1 onion medium; diced
- ¼ cup butter
- ½ cup butter
- ½ cup flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 ½ tablespoons salt
- 2 cups cheddar cheese sharp; grated
- ⅛ tablespoon pepper
Instructions
- Steam broccoli in microwave until tender. Do not overcook.
- Saute diced onion in a 5 quart Dutch oven in ¼ cup butter. Set the onions aside.
- In a Dutch oven melt ½ cup butter, stir in flour and slowly add milk chicken broth and salt and pepper.
- Stir until sauce comes to a boil. It will thicken after a minute or two.
- Add broccoli, onions and cheese stirring frequently.
- Serve with warm bread and enjoy!
Notes
- Steam broccoli just until tender to keep its color and texture.
- Gradually add cheese over low heat to ensure a smooth, creamy soup.
- Whisk flour into melted butter before adding liquids to prevent lumps in the roux.
- Stir frequently once broccoli and cheese are added to combine flavors evenly.
Nutrition
Dutch Oven Daddy is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is only an estimate. We recommend running the ingredients through an online nutritional calculator if you need to verify any information.
Edward says
This soup in a bread bowl is exactly what I needed for my soul. Thank you so much!
D says
Great soup on a cold day!!!
Ned Adams says
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed!
Travis says
I love chowders. Broccoli and cheddar is one of my favorite soups. Can't wait.