Description

This creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup is a comforting and easy-to-make recipe with just five ingredients! Featuring tender broccoli florets, rich cheddar cheese, and a smooth blend of chicken broth and heavy cream, this soup is perfect for a quick lunch or cozy dinner. The recipe offers two options: a chunky, cheesy version or a silky, pureed texture, tailored to your preference.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

4 cups broccoli florets
4 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids

3 1/2 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream

Dairy

3 cups pre-shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Sauté Garlic: In a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat, sauté the minced garlic for one minute until fragrant. Add a little oil as needed to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
Simmer Broccoli: Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and broccoli florets to the pot. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook gently for 10-20 minutes until the broccoli becomes tender.
Option 1 – Chunky Cheese Soup: Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese in 1/2 cup increments, stirring constantly over a very low simmer to ensure the cheese fully melts without seizing. Once all cheese is incorporated, remove from heat.
Option 2 – Pureed Cheese Soup (Recommended): Use a slotted spoon to remove about one-third of the broccoli florets and set them aside if you prefer some chunky texture in your soup. Using an immersion blender, puree the remaining soup until smooth.
Incorporate Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese gradually in 1/2 cup portions, stirring continuously until each addition melts completely. Puree the soup again if you desire a completely smooth texture.
Final Touches: Remove the soup from heat and stir the reserved broccoli florets back into the soup for added texture. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Use pre-shredded cheddar cheese for easier melting and convenience.
To avoid cheese seizing, keep the heat low when adding cheese and stir constantly.
If you prefer a completely smooth soup, skip removing broccoli before blending.
You can substitute vegetable broth to make the soup vegetarian (but may alter recipe slightly).
Add a pinch of nutmeg or black pepper if desired for extra flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: broccoli cheese soup, easy soup recipe, creamy broccoli soup, 5 ingredient soup