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Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Copycat Recipe

creamy broccoli cheddar soup copycat recipe - featured image

A rich and velvety homemade broccoli cheddar soup that combines sharp cheddar cheese with tender broccoli in a creamy roux-based broth. Perfect comfort food for cozy dinners and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth (low sodium)
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Rinse and chop fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets (about 4 cups). If using frozen, thaw and drain well. Set aside.
  2. In a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Sprinkle 1/4 cup all-purpose flour over the butter and onions. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is golden and bubbling.
  5. Gradually whisk in 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, making sure no lumps form. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a gentle boil, stirring often.
  6. Add the broccoli florets to the pot. Reduce heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer until broccoli is tender but not mushy, about 8-10 minutes.
  7. Slowly stir in 2 cups whole milk. Add a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Heat gently and do not boil once milk is added to avoid curdling.
  8. For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup right in the pot, leaving some broccoli chunks for texture. If using a regular blender, cool slightly before blending in batches.
  9. Remove pot from heat. Gradually stir in 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  10. Stir in 1 teaspoon lemon juice to brighten flavors.
  11. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. Serve hot.

Notes

Melt cheese off the heat to keep the soup silky and prevent graininess. Avoid overcooking broccoli to maintain vibrant color and texture. Freshly shredded cheddar melts better than pre-shredded. For gluten-free, use gluten-free flour or cornstarch slurry. For vegan, use plant-based butter, dairy-free milk, and cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli cheddar soup, creamy soup, comfort food, homemade soup, copycat recipe, easy soup, cheesy soup