The Story & Intro
Growing up in Crete, winter afternoons meant cozy kitchens and steaming bowls of soup. My grandmother had a way of turning simple ingredients into magic, and Cheesy Broccoli Soup was one of those dishes. I remember stirring the creamy soup while she sprinkled shredded cheese on top, the aroma filling the room and making everyone feel instantly at home.
Cheesy Broccoli Soup has become one of my go-to comfort foods. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, yet surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re new to cooking or want a quick weeknight dinner, this Cheesy Broccoli Soup will warm your heart and delight your taste buds.
What I love most about this soup is how easy it is to customize. Add extra cheese for indulgence, a pinch of nutmeg for depth, or even some crispy croutons on top for texture. Every spoonful is pure comfort.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mix of your favorite cheeses)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg or paprika for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Aromatics – In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Make a Roux – Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes. This will thicken the soup.
- Add Broth & Broccoli – Gradually whisk in the broth, ensuring no lumps form. Add broccoli florets and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10–12 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
- Blend the Soup – Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. You can leave small broccoli chunks if you prefer texture.
- Add Milk & Cheese – Reduce heat to low and stir in milk, then add shredded cheese gradually, stirring until creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg.
- Serve Hot – Pour into bowls, sprinkle a bit of paprika or extra cheese on top, and enjoy your creamy, comforting Cheesy Broccoli Soup.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy Broccoli Soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a side salad. For a heartier meal, top with crispy bacon bits or roasted vegetables. It’s perfect for cozy nights, quick lunches, or family dinners.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Cheesy Broccoli Soup 📝
- Time Cook ⏱️: Prep 10 mins, Cook 20 mins, Total 30 mins
- Ingredients 🛒: Fresh broccoli, cheddar cheese, onion, garlic, butter, milk, broth
- Instructions 🍴: Sauté, make roux, simmer broccoli, blend, add milk & cheese
- Note 💡: Don’t boil after adding cheese to prevent curdling
- Nutrition 🥗: Calories ~220 per serving, Protein 12g, Fat 14g, Carbs 12g
💡 Tip: For extra creaminess, swap half the milk with heavy cream. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
Conclusion
Cheesy Broccoli Soup is comfort in a bowl creamy, cheesy, and packed with healthy broccoli. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners but flavorful enough to impress family and friends. Every spoonful reminds me of cozy afternoons in my grandmother’s kitchen, and now, I love sharing that warmth through this recipe. Make a big batch, because one bowl is never enough!
Short 100-Word Version
Cheesy Broccoli Soup is creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting flavor. Sauté onions and garlic in butter, make a roux with flour, then add broccoli and broth. Simmer until tender, then blend until smooth. Stir in milk and shredded cheddar cheese until creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg. Serve hot with crusty bread, croutons, or a salad for a cozy meal. This Cheesy Broccoli Soup is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or comforting lunches, bringing warmth, flavor, and a little nostalgia from the heart of Crete straight to your table.