Broccoli cheddar soup is a timeless favorite that combines the wholesome goodness of fresh broccoli with the rich, comforting taste of melted cheddar cheese.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a cozy lunch, or an impressive starter, easy broccoli cheddar soup recipes have you covered.
From classic creamy versions to unique twists with added vegetables or dairy-free alternatives, these soups are simple to prepare yet packed with flavor.
In this collection of 21+ easy broccoli cheddar soup recipes, you’ll discover a variety of ways to enjoy this delicious dish that fits any dietary need or taste preference.
21+ Easy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipes for Cozy Comfort
With so many easy broccoli cheddar soup recipes at your fingertips, you can enjoy this comforting classic anytime without the fuss.
Whether you prefer your soup creamy, chunky, dairy-free, or slow-cooked, these recipes offer something for everyone.
Perfect for meal prepping or serving fresh from the stove, broccoli cheddar soup is a versatile dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table.
Try experimenting with different variations to find your favorite version that will keep you coming back for more.
Classic Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This classic broccoli cheddar soup is creamy, comforting, and packed with fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese.
It’s a perfect meal for chilly days when you want something warm and satisfying.
The soup balances rich cheese flavor with just enough veggie freshness, making it a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- Broccoli florets
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Milk or half-and-half
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- In a large pot, melt butter and sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
- Stir in flour and cook for a minute to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in broth and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Add broccoli florets and simmer until tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This recipe delivers a velvety texture and a perfect balance of cheesy goodness and wholesome broccoli.
It’s easy to make and great for serving as a starter or a hearty main with crusty bread.
Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This slow cooker broccoli cheddar soup is the ultimate easy, hands-off recipe.
You can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to develop fully as it simmers all day.
The result is a rich, cheesy soup with tender broccoli, ideal for busy days or meal prep.
Ingredients:
- Broccoli (chopped)
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Onion (diced)
- Garlic (minced)
- Chicken broth
- Half-and-half or milk
- Butter
- Flour
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Add broccoli, onion, garlic, broth, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for several hours until broccoli is tender.
- In a separate pan, melt butter, whisk in flour to form a roux, then slowly whisk in half-and-half until thickened.
- Stir the roux mixture into the slow cooker along with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Mix well until the cheese melts and soup is creamy.
The slow cooker method intensifies the flavors and makes the soup incredibly easy to prepare.
It’s a perfect make-ahead meal that feels indulgent but is wholesome and nutritious.
Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This instant pot broccoli cheddar soup cooks quickly without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Using the pressure cooker speeds up the process, giving you a creamy, cheesy soup in a fraction of the time it would take on the stove.
It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want comforting food fast.
Ingredients:
- Broccoli florets
- Sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Chicken broth
- Milk or cream
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Use the sauté function to cook onions and garlic in butter until soft.
- Stir in flour and cook for a minute to form a roux.
- Add chicken broth and broccoli, then seal the lid and cook on high pressure for a few minutes.
- Quick release the pressure, then blend slightly with an immersion blender for a creamy texture.
- Stir in milk and shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This recipe combines convenience with rich flavor, delivering a comforting bowl of broccoli cheddar soup in under 30 minutes.
It’s perfect for anyone who loves homemade soup but needs to save time.
Cheesy Broccoli Soup
This cheesy broccoli soup is a smooth and creamy delight that highlights the fresh flavor of broccoli complemented by melted cheddar cheese.
It’s an easy recipe that delivers a rich, velvety texture without being overly heavy, making it a perfect comforting meal.
Ingredients:
- Fresh broccoli florets
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Onion (diced)
- Garlic (minced)
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Milk or cream
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Sauté onions and garlic in butter until fragrant and translucent.
- Stir in flour to create a roux and cook briefly.
- Slowly whisk in broth and milk, stirring continuously until the soup thickens.
- Add broccoli and simmer until tender.
- Blend part of the soup for a smoother texture or leave as is for chunkier consistency.
- Stir in cheddar cheese until fully melted and season with salt and pepper.
This cheesy broccoli soup is quick to make and offers a perfect blend of creamy richness with fresh vegetable flavor, great for lunch or dinner.
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This creamy broccoli cheddar soup recipe is luscious and indulgent while still simple to prepare.
The creamy base combined with sharp cheddar and tender broccoli makes for a satisfying and heartwarming dish that the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
- Broccoli florets
- Sharp cheddar cheese
- Onion (finely chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Butter
- Flour
- Chicken broth
- Heavy cream or half-and-half
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Cook onion and garlic in butter until soft.
- Add flour and stir to make a thickening base.
- Gradually whisk in broth and cream, cooking until slightly thickened.
- Add broccoli and cook until soft.
- Blend partially if desired, then mix in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
This soup is creamy and flavorful with a rich texture that feels like a treat but is easy enough for everyday meals.
Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This vegan broccoli cheddar soup uses plant-based ingredients to replicate the creamy, cheesy comfort of the classic dish without dairy.
Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor, while cashews create a luscious texture, making it both delicious and suitable for vegan diets.
Ingredients:
- Broccoli florets
- Raw cashews (soaked)
- Nutritional yeast
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Olive oil
- Vegetable broth
- Unsweetened plant-based milk
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
- Add broccoli and vegetable broth, then simmer until broccoli is tender.
- Drain cashews and blend with plant milk, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Combine the cashew mixture with the cooked broccoli and broth, blending to desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This vegan version of broccoli cheddar soup offers a creamy, savory alternative that’s packed with nutrients and perfect for anyone avoiding dairy but craving comfort food.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Potatoes
This broccoli cheddar soup with potatoes adds extra creaminess and body thanks to tender, boiled potatoes.
The potatoes blend smoothly into the soup, giving it a velvety texture that perfectly complements the sharp cheddar and fresh broccoli flavors.
Ingredients:
- Broccoli florets
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Potatoes (peeled and diced)
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Butter
- Flour
- Chicken broth
- Milk or cream
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Sauté onions and garlic in butter until soft.
- Add flour and cook briefly to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk until thickened.
- Add potatoes and broccoli, simmer until tender.
- Use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup for a creamy texture with chunks.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and season to taste.
This version of broccoli cheddar soup is hearty and satisfying with a creamy texture that feels indulgent yet is simple to make.
The potatoes give it extra comfort and make it a filling meal perfect for cooler days.
Slow Cooker Cheddar Broccoli Soup
This slow cooker cheddar broccoli soup is an easy, set-it-and-forget-it recipe that delivers rich, cheesy flavor and tender broccoli with minimal effort.
The slow cooking allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, creating a deeply comforting soup.
Ingredients:
- Broccoli (chopped)
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Onion (diced)
- Garlic (minced)
- Chicken broth
- Half-and-half or milk
- Butter
- Flour
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Combine broccoli, onion, garlic, broth, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker.
- Cook on low until broccoli is tender.
- Make a roux separately by melting butter, whisking in flour, then slowly adding half-and-half until thickened.
- Stir the roux and cheddar cheese into the slow cooker.
- Mix well until cheese melts and soup is creamy.
This slow cooker soup is perfect for busy days or meal prepping, delivering comforting, cheesy broccoli goodness with ease.
Dairy-Free Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This dairy-free broccoli cheddar soup offers all the flavor and creaminess you expect without using any dairy products.
Using coconut milk and vegan cheese alternatives, it’s perfect for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
Ingredients:
- Broccoli florets
- Vegan cheddar-style cheese (shredded)
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Coconut milk (full fat)
- Vegetable broth
- Olive oil or vegan butter
- Flour or cornstarch (for thickening)
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
- Stir in flour or cornstarch and cook briefly.
- Gradually whisk in vegetable broth and coconut milk, cooking until thickened.
- Add broccoli and simmer until tender.
- Stir in vegan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
This dairy-free take on broccoli cheddar soup provides a creamy, cheesy experience suitable for those avoiding dairy, without sacrificing comfort or flavor.
Cheddar Broccoli Soup with Carrots
This cheddar broccoli soup with carrots adds a subtle sweetness and vibrant color that complements the sharpness of the cheddar cheese.
The carrots blend into the soup, enhancing its texture and nutritional value, making it a wholesome, delicious choice for any meal.
Ingredients:
- Broccoli florets
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Carrots (chopped)
- Onion (diced)
- Garlic (minced)
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Milk or cream
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Sauté onion, garlic, and carrots in butter until softened.
- Stir in flour to make a roux and cook for a minute.
- Gradually whisk in broth and milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Add broccoli and simmer until tender.
- Blend part of the soup for a smooth texture or leave it chunky, then stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
The addition of carrots adds depth to this classic soup, making it both flavorful and nutritious, perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner.
Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This crockpot broccoli cheddar soup is a convenient, slow-cooked version that allows flavors to meld beautifully over hours.
It’s an easy recipe for busy days when you want a warm, cheesy soup waiting for you at the end of the day.
Ingredients:
- Broccoli (chopped)
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Chicken broth
- Half-and-half or milk
- Butter
- Flour
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Place broccoli, onion, garlic, and broth in the crockpot.
- Cook on low until broccoli is tender.
- In a separate pan, make a roux by melting butter, whisking in flour, then slowly adding cream or milk until thickened.
- Stir the roux and shredded cheddar cheese into the crockpot.
- Mix until cheese melts and soup is creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper.
This slow cooker recipe is perfect for effortless cooking, delivering a rich and satisfying broccoli cheddar soup with minimal hands-on time.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Cauliflower
This broccoli cheddar soup with cauliflower adds extra creaminess and mild flavor while keeping the soup healthy.
Cauliflower blends seamlessly with broccoli, creating a smooth base that highlights the cheesy goodness of cheddar.
Ingredients:
- Broccoli florets
- Cauliflower florets
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Chicken broth
- Milk or cream
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Sauté onion and garlic in butter until softened.
- Add flour and cook briefly to form a roux.
- Slowly whisk in broth and milk, stirring until thickened.
- Add broccoli and cauliflower, simmering until tender.
- Blend part or all of the soup to your preferred consistency.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
The cauliflower adds a subtle sweetness and smooth texture, enhancing this classic soup and making it even more comforting and wholesome.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Cauliflower and Potatoes
This broccoli cheddar soup enriched with cauliflower and potatoes creates a thick, velvety texture that’s both satisfying and wholesome.
The potatoes add creaminess without extra dairy, while the cauliflower enhances the vegetable flavor, making it a hearty and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
- Broccoli florets
- Cauliflower florets
- Potatoes (peeled and diced)
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Butter
- Flour
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Milk or cream
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Sauté onions and garlic in butter until softened.
- Stir in flour to form a roux and cook briefly.
- Slowly whisk in broth and milk, stirring until thickened.
- Add potatoes, cauliflower, and broccoli, then simmer until tender.
- Blend partially for a creamy texture with some chunks remaining.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This version offers extra body and creaminess while still delivering the classic broccoli cheddar flavor, perfect for cozy dinners or meal prepping.
Gluten-Free Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This gluten-free broccoli cheddar soup is just as rich and flavorful as the traditional version but without any wheat-based ingredients.
Using cornstarch as a thickener, it’s suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease without compromising on creaminess or taste.
Ingredients:
- Broccoli florets
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Butter
- Cornstarch
- Chicken broth
- Milk or cream
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Sauté onion and garlic in butter until softened.
- Mix cornstarch with a little cold milk to make a slurry.
- Add broth and milk to the pot and heat gently.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry, cooking until the soup thickens.
- Add broccoli and cook until tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This recipe is a fantastic gluten-free alternative, offering all the cheesy, comforting goodness of classic broccoli cheddar soup in a friendly format for sensitive diets.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Cauliflower Rice
This low-carb broccoli cheddar soup uses cauliflower rice to boost texture and nutrition while keeping it light.
The soup stays creamy and cheesy without heavy cream, making it a great option for those watching carbs but craving a hearty, comforting bowl.
Ingredients:
- Broccoli florets
- Cauliflower rice
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Butter
- Chicken broth
- Milk or cream
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Sauté onions and garlic in butter until soft.
- Add broccoli and cauliflower rice with chicken broth and simmer until tender.
- Blend partially for desired consistency, leaving some texture.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper.
This variation offers a delicious, lighter take on broccoli cheddar soup that’s satisfying and perfect for low-carb or keto-friendly diets.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Cauliflower and Carrots
This broccoli cheddar soup with cauliflower and carrots is a vibrant and nutritious twist on the classic.
The cauliflower adds creaminess while the carrots bring a natural sweetness that balances the sharp cheddar perfectly.
Ingredients:
- Broccoli florets
- Cauliflower florets
- Carrots (chopped)
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Onion (diced)
- Garlic (minced)
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Chicken broth
- Milk or cream
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Sauté onions, garlic, and carrots in butter until tender.
- Stir in flour and cook for a minute to create a roux.
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth and milk, stirring until the mixture thickens.
- Add broccoli and cauliflower, simmering until soft.
- Blend partially or fully depending on texture preference.
- Stir in shredded cheddar until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This soup is full of color, flavor, and nutrients—perfect for a cozy meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Cauliflower and Leeks
This broccoli cheddar soup features cauliflower and leeks for a slightly sweeter, more aromatic base.
The combination of leeks and cheese adds a gourmet touch while remaining simple and easy to make.
Ingredients:
- Broccoli florets
- Cauliflower florets
- Leeks (sliced)
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Garlic (minced)
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Chicken broth
- Milk or cream
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Sauté leeks and garlic in butter until soft and fragrant.
- Add flour and stir to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in broth and milk until thickened.
- Add broccoli and cauliflower, simmering until tender.
- Blend to desired consistency.
- Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Leeks add a delicate sweetness and complexity that pairs beautifully with the sharp cheddar and fresh vegetables in this comforting soup.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Sweet Potato
This broccoli cheddar soup with sweet potato offers a naturally sweet and creamy twist.
The sweet potatoes add richness and body to the soup, making it a hearty and satisfying meal that still highlights the classic cheddar and broccoli flavors.
Ingredients:
- Broccoli florets
- Sweet potatoes (peeled and diced)
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Butter
- Flour
- Chicken broth
- Milk or cream
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Sauté onion and garlic in butter until translucent.
- Stir in flour and cook to make a roux.
- Slowly whisk in broth and milk, stirring until thickened.
- Add sweet potatoes and broccoli, simmering until tender.
- Blend partially or fully, depending on texture preference.
- Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper.
This variation introduces a comforting sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory cheddar and fresh broccoli for a balanced and nourishing soup.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Cauliflower and Leek
This broccoli cheddar soup with cauliflower and leek offers a delicate and aromatic twist on the classic.
The addition of leeks imparts a subtle sweetness and depth, while cauliflower enhances the creamy texture without overpowering the flavors.
Ingredients:
- Broccoli florets
- Cauliflower florets
- Leeks (sliced)
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Garlic (minced)
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Chicken broth
- Milk or cream
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Sauté sliced leeks and garlic in butter until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in flour and cook for a minute to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, stirring until thickened.
- Add broccoli and cauliflower florets, simmer until tender.
- Blend part of the soup for a creamier texture or leave chunky as preferred.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
The combination of leeks and cheddar creates a richer, more nuanced flavor profile, making this soup perfect for a cozy night in.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Sweet Potato
This broccoli cheddar soup with sweet potato adds natural sweetness and a velvety consistency that complements the sharpness of the cheddar.
Sweet potatoes enhance the nutritional value and give the soup a hearty feel.
Ingredients:
- Broccoli florets
- Sweet potatoes (peeled and diced)
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Butter
- Flour
- Chicken broth
- Milk or cream
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Sauté onions and garlic in butter until soft.
- Stir in flour and cook for a minute to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in broth and milk until thickened.
- Add diced sweet potatoes and broccoli, simmer until tender.
- Blend partially or fully based on texture preference.
- Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
The sweet potato gives this soup a subtle sweetness that balances the savory cheddar, creating a comforting and nutritious meal.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Cauliflower and Carrot
This broccoli cheddar soup with cauliflower and carrot combines sweet and earthy flavors with a creamy cheese base.
The carrots add a gentle sweetness and vibrant color, while cauliflower enhances the smooth texture.
Ingredients:
- Broccoli florets
- Cauliflower florets
- Carrots (chopped)
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Onion (diced)
- Garlic (minced)
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Chicken broth
- Milk or cream
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Sauté onions, garlic, and carrots in butter until tender.
- Stir in flour and cook for a minute to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, stirring until thickened.
- Add broccoli and cauliflower, simmer until soft.
- Blend to desired consistency, then stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This variation adds vibrant flavor and nutrients, making the soup both delicious and visually appealing for a comforting meal.
Conclusion
These 21+ easy broccoli cheddar soup recipes prove that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, you can whip up a batch of this cheesy, nutritious soup with minimal ingredients and effort. From slow cooker meals to quick stovetop versions, there’s a recipe here to suit every lifestyle and palate. Embrace the delicious simplicity of broccoli cheddar soup and elevate your meal routine with these tried-and-true recipes.