Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This broccoli cheddar soup is fantastic. It will melt in your mouth! The flavors from the bacon, combined with the cheddar and broccoli, call for a bowl of perfection! This recipe is my go-to Sunday soup when I want to make something quick and easy that will hit the spot!

If you love this recipe, try my Loaded Baked Potato and Birria Ramen next!

Why Everyone Loves This Broccoli Cheddar Soup 

• It’s easy to make– This is a recipe I can make with my eyes closed! This soup requires little effort, but it will have maximum flavor!
• It’s perfect for crowds- Looking for a soup to make for a holiday, family gathering, groups, or parties? Then this is the recipe for you. Serving 6-8 comfortably, you can make a big pot, and it will go a long way!
• It’s packed with flavor- The bacon in this recipe adds a beautiful depth of flavor. I have the perfect ratio of broccoli/ cheddar/ spices!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Broccoli
• Carrots
• Cheddar
• Bacon (optional but recommended)
• Cheese
• Garlic
• Onion
• Chicken Broth
• Heavy Cream
• Milk
• Spices
• Flour
• Butter

Tips for Making the Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Hand shreds your cheese- This makes a HUGE difference. Hand-shredded cheese is cheaper and melts better, and has more flavor. Pre-shredded cheeses contain enzymes and preservatives that steal the cheese’s greatness- hand shreds if you can!
• Nail your Roux– A roux combines equal parts flour and fat (in this recipe, we will use butter). Roux’s are common in Southern, Cajun, and Soul Food dishes because they help thicken sauces and, sometimes, they add flavor. When making a roux, your fat is added and melted, and then you stir or whisk in flour. For optimal results, your roux should be thick and smooth. If your roux is clumpy, the ratio of ingredients is imbalanced. You can correct this by adding tbsps of chicken broth, one at a time, to thin your roux. 
• Get creative- This soup is very versatile! Add chicken and other veggies, or just taste as you go and add swaps and seasonings as you like! 

Lets Make it together @themoodyfoody, Toni Chapman

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Toni Chapman (@themoodyfoody)

Did you make this? Leave a review below and tag me on Instagram, Tiktok, or Pinterest!

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Certainly! Here are some delightful variations and substitutions to elevate your Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

Broccoli and Cauliflower Blend:

• Combine broccoli with cauliflower for a unique twist. The milder flavor of cauliflower complements the richness of cheddar.

Spicy Kick:

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who crave a bit of heat. It adds a spicy dimension that contrasts well with the creamy soup.

Loaded Broccoli Cheddar:

• Transform your soup into a loaded version by topping it with crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream.

• For a low-carb version, replace some of the potatoes with cauliflower. It maintains the creamy texture without the extra carbs.

Different Cheeses

• Experiment with different cheeses like gouda, gruyere, or smoked cheddar for a unique flavor profile. Mix and match for a more complex taste.

Vegan Twist:

• Opt for nutritional yeast or vegan cheese alternatives to make a dairy-free version. Use vegetable broth and coconut milk for a creamy, plant-based alternative.Skip the Bacon and use Vegan Butter instead!

Protein Boost:

• Enhance the soup’s protein content by stirring in cooked quinoa, shredded chicken, or diced tofu. It makes for a more substantial and satisfying meal.

Remember, these variations are flexible, and you can mix and match according to your taste preferences. Enjoy experimenting with these creative twists on the classic Broccoli Cheddar Soup!