Description
This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is cozy, nourishing, and packed with flavor. Made with fresh broccoli, carrots, onions, and sharp cheddar, it delivers rich taste without heavy cream. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or when you’re craving wholesome comfort food.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- ½ teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ¼ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 bunch broccoli (about 4 cups), chopped (including stalks)
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and a pinch of salt. Cook 5–8 minutes until softened.
- Add carrots & garlic: Stir in carrot, cook 2 minutes. Add garlic and Dijon, cooking until fragrant.
- Cook broccoli: Add broccoli and broth. Simmer 15–20 minutes until tender.
- Blend: Use an immersion blender to purée to your desired consistency (silky or slightly chunky).
- Finish with dairy & cheese: Reduce heat to low. Stir in milk and lemon juice. Gradually add cheddar, stirring until melted.
- Serve: Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with extra cheddar and serve warm with bread or salad.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor and smoother melting.
- Add cheese off the heat to prevent clumping.
- Don’t overcook broccoli—keep its vibrant green color.
- Lemon juice enhances brightness and balances richness.
- For extra protein, stir in white beans or lentils before blending.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup, Dinner, Vegetarian
- Method: One-Pot, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Broccoli Cheddar Soup, Creamy Broccoli Soup, Healthy Soup Recipes, Vegetarian Dinner, Easy Soup Recipes