Croutons: Optional crunchy element for textural contrast and extra indulgence.
Helpful Tools for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking the soup, with a wide base for even heating.
Whisk: Perfect for smoothly mixing flour and preventing lumps.
Wooden spoon: Great for stirring onions and mixing ingredients without scratching the pot.
Sharp knife: Needed to chop onions, garlic, broccoli, and carrots precisely.
Cutting board: Provides a clean surface for chopping vegetables.
Cheese grater: Optional for freshly grating cheese for a melty texture.
Ladle: Helps serve the soup smoothly into bowls.
Cooking Broccoli Cheddar Soup Step by Step
Flavor Foundation The secret starts with a gentle sauté of sweet onions in rich, creamy butter, creating a delicious base that whispers comfort and warmth.
Texture Transformation Sprinkle in flour and crushed garlic, transforming the silky mixture into a golden, fragrant roux that promises depth and complexity.
Liquid Magic Gently pour milk, creating a luxurious canvas that will cradle tender broccoli and vibrant carrots in a velvety embrace.
Vegetable Symphony Introduce fresh broccoli and carrots, letting them dance with a hint of Dijon mustard, slowly simmering until vegetables surrender their crisp edges.
Cheesy Crescendo Fold in sharp cheddar cheese, watching it melt into a smooth, rich symphony that blankets each spoonful with tangy, creamy goodness.
Final Touch Season with a delicate balance of salt and pepper, allowing the soup's flavors to sing. Optional crispy croutons add a delightful crunch for texture lovers.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Tips and Flavor Boosts
Roast broccoli and carrots before adding to the soup for a deeper, more caramelized taste that enhances the overall complexity.
Experiment with different cheese combinations like sharp cheddar, gruyère, or smoked gouda to create unique flavor profiles that match your preference.
Blend a portion of the soup for a creamier consistency while leaving some chunks for added texture and visual appeal.
Prepare the soup in advance and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing flavors to meld and intensify overnight.
Stir in cooked chicken, crispy bacon bits, or diced ham to transform this soup into a more substantial meal that satisfies hearty appetites.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Pair with Crusty Bread: Slice a warm, artisan baguette or rustic sourdough to dip into the creamy soup, soaking up all those delicious cheesy flavors.
Garnish with Crunch: Sprinkle crispy homemade croutons or toasted sunflower seeds on top to add a delightful textural contrast to the smooth soup.
Create a Soup and Salad Combo: Serve alongside a light, fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the rich, cheesy broccoli soup and create a complete meal.
Enhance with Protein: Top with crispy bacon bits or shredded rotisserie chicken to turn this soup into a more substantial and satisfying lunch or dinner option.
How to Save and Store Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Refrigerate Wisely: Store leftover broccoli cheddar soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the soup completely before sealing to maintain its delicious flavor and texture.
Freeze for Later: Transfer soup to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Frozen soup keeps well for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat Carefully: Warm the soup slowly over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup seems too thick after refrigeration. Avoid boiling to keep the cheese smooth and creamy.
Portion and Prep: Divide soup into individual serving containers for quick weekday lunches. Label with the date and contents to track freshness. Small portions reheat quickly and stay tasty for busy meal times.
Hearty Ina Garten broccoli cheddar soup combines rich cheese with tender vegetables for a comforting meal. Home cooks can savor this classic soup’s creamy texture and satisfying flavor profile in just under an hour.
Ingredients
Scale
8 oz (226 g) shredded cheddar cheese, about 2 heaping cups
3 cups chopped broccoli florets
2 cups whole milk or unsweetened almond milk
2 cups vegetable broth
4 tbsps (60 ml) unsalted butter
1 large carrot, julienned or finely chopped
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
3 garlic cloves, chopped (about 1 tbsp)
½ tsp sea salt
½ tsp Dijon mustard
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Homemade croutons, for serving, optional
Instructions
Foundational Preparation: Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, seasoned with salt and pepper, and sauté until translucent and soft, approximately 5 minutes.
Aromatic Enhancement: Introduce minced garlic and cook briefly. Dust flour over the mixture, whisking continuously for 1-2 minutes until achieving a light golden-brown roux.
Liquid Integration: Slowly pour milk into the pot, stirring consistently to create a smooth, lump-free base. Incorporate broccoli florets, carrots, and Dijon mustard.
Vegetable Infusion: Reduce heat and allow vegetables to simmer, developing deep flavors and softening for 15-20 minutes. Gently fold in shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and creating a velvety consistency.
Final Refinement: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. Serve hot, optionally topped with crisp croutons for an extra textural dimension.
Notes
Cheese Melting Tip: Shred cheese at room temperature and add gradually to prevent clumping and ensure smooth, creamy consistency.
Vegetable Softening Strategy: Cut broccoli and carrots into uniform, bite-sized pieces to guarantee even cooking and consistent texture throughout the soup.
Flour Technique: Whisk flour thoroughly to eliminate raw flour taste and create a golden roux, which provides rich depth and thickening foundation.
Serving Enhancement: Top with extra sharp cheddar or crispy bacon bits for additional flavor complexity and textural contrast.
Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Baking and Pastry Arts
Focus: Techniques in baking, pastry creation, and dessert presentation.
San Antonio Culinary Institute
Program: Diploma in Farm-to-Table Culinary Practices
Focus: Emphasis on utilizing locally sourced ingredients and understanding seasonal flavors.
Sophia’s passion for baking began in her family kitchen, where she spent hours experimenting with new recipes. With a background in baking and pastry arts, she loves making desserts that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.
Sophia is all about using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients to create treats that everyone will enjoy. When she’s not creating mouth-watering desserts, you can find her gardening, making new recipes, or enjoying a relaxing afternoon with her family.
Sophia Rivera
Recipe Developer & Kitchen Tips Specialist
Expertise
Education
Austin Community College
San Antonio Culinary Institute
Sophia’s passion for baking began in her family kitchen, where she spent hours experimenting with new recipes. With a background in baking and pastry arts, she loves making desserts that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.
Sophia is all about using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients to create treats that everyone will enjoy. When she’s not creating mouth-watering desserts, you can find her gardening, making new recipes, or enjoying a relaxing afternoon with her family.