Name: Comfort Food
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped.; 3 ¼ cups milk (plus more to thin, if needed).; 1 (14.5 oz) can chicken broth.; 2 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded.; ½ cup heavy cream.; 6 tablespoons butter, cut into 1-tablespoon pieces.; 1 cup yellow onion, finely chopped.; ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, finely shredded.; 1 teaspoon minced garlic.; ¼ cup all-purpose flour, plus 2 additional tablespoons.; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.

This Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup is the ultimate comfort food with a creamy base, loaded with cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and tender broccoli florets. Perfect for a cozy meal, this soup is quick to make and packed with rich flavors. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete, satisfying dinner that’s great for the whole family.

This Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with tender broccoli florets. Ready in just 30 minutes, this soup brings the comfort of a restaurant favorite right to your kitchen, perfect for cozy dinners or quick lunches.

INGREDIENTS

Fresh Broccoli Florets (chopped): Adds freshness and texture to the soup, making it nutritious and flavorful.

Milk: Provides the creamy base for the soup, giving it a smooth, rich texture.
Chicken Broth: Adds savory depth to the soup, enhancing the flavors without overpowering the cheese.
Cheddar Cheese (shredded): The primary cheese that gives this soup its classic cheesy flavor and creaminess.

Heavy Cream: Adds extra richness and thickness, creating a luxurious texture in the soup.
Butter: Used to sauté the onions and add a buttery depth to the soup’s base.

Additional Ingredients

Yellow Onion (finely chopped): Provides sweetness and enhances the depth of flavor in the soup.

Parmesan Cheese (finely shredded): Adds an extra layer of sharpness and enhances the overall cheese flavor.
Garlic (minced): Adds a subtle aromatic note that complements the cheese and broccoli.
All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the soup to a chowder-like consistency, creating a satisfying texture.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the flavors in each ingredient, enhancing the overall taste.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Sauté the Onions: In a large pot over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onions and cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are almost tender, about 4 to 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Flour: Stir in the minced garlic and flour, cooking for about 1 minute. Stir continuously to avoid burning the flour, which will help thicken the soup.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Broccoli: Gradually whisk in the milk, followed by the chicken broth. Add the chopped broccoli and continue stirring until the mixture starts to thicken. Bring it to a simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Broccoli: Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, for 6 to 8 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the soup has thickened.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheeses: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Season and Serve: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve the soup warm, garnished with additional shredded cheddar cheese if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve this Broccoli Cheese Soup hot, topped with extra cheddar cheese for added creaminess.
Pair it with crusty bread, a side salad, or a handful of croutons for a complete meal.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup has thickened too much.

Helpful Notes

If you prefer a thicker soup, add an extra tablespoon of flour when cooking the onions and garlic.
For a richer taste, substitute half of the milk with more heavy cream.
To add a hint of spice, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce before serving.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chef Ina Garten suggests grating your own cheddar cheese for a smoother melt.
Chef Alton Brown recommends using fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture in soups.
Chef Emeril Lagasse adds a pinch of nutmeg to bring out the richness of the cheese.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Broccoli Cheese Soup is creamy, comforting, and packed with cheesy goodness.
The combination of fresh broccoli and two types of cheese creates a balanced flavor that’s hard to resist.
It’s quick and easy to make, perfect for a cozy dinner on busy weeknights.

Variations

For a lower-carb option, substitute the flour with xanthan gum or omit it entirely.
Add cooked, crumbled bacon for extra flavor and a smoky touch.
For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.