Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Broccoli Cheddar Soup 🥦 is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Chelsea on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 25 min | Total: 50 min
Cost: $8.90 total, $2.23 per serving
Ingredients
- 4 cups Broccoli Florets (fresh, cut into bite‑size pieces)
- 1 large Carrot (peeled and diced)
- 1 medium Onion (finely chopped)
- 2 pieces Garlic Cloves (minced)
- 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (cut into cubes, softened)
- 3 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour (for roux, sifted)
- 3 cups Chicken or Vegetable Broth (low‑sodium)
- 1.5 cups Whole Milk (prefer 2% or whole for richness)
- 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese (freshly shredded, extra sharp for maximum flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Ground Mustard (adds extra cheesy depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon Paprika (for finishing color and flavor)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
Instructions
Prep Vegetables
Wash the broccoli, cut into bite‑size florets. Peel and dice the carrot, chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
Time: PT10M
Make the Roux
In the large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and whisk constantly for 2–3 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color and smells nutty.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: medium
Add Liquid Base
Gradually whisk in the broth, followed by the milk, making sure to dissolve any lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
Time: PT3M
Temperature: medium
Cook Vegetables
Add the onion, carrot, and broccoli to the simmering base. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 12–15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Time: PT15M
Temperature: low
Blend (Optional)
For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some broccoli florets for texture. If using a countertop blender, blend in batches and return to the pot.
Time: PT5M
Add Cheese and Mustard
Stir in the freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese a handful at a time, allowing each addition to melt before adding more. Sprinkle in the ground mustard and mix well.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: low
Season and Finish
Season the soup with salt, pepper, and the paprika. Give a final stir and taste for seasoning adjustments.
Time: PT2M
Serve
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and enjoy immediately. Optional garnish: extra shredded cheddar or a drizzle of cream.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 350
- Protein
- 15g
- Carbohydrates
- 20g
- Fat
- 22g
- Fiber
- 4g
Dietary info: Vegetarian (if using vegetable broth)
Allergens: Dairy, Gluten
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Broccoli Florets: Frozen broccoli florets
- Instead of Carrot: Parsnip
- Instead of Onion: Leek
- Instead of Garlic Cloves: Garlic powder (1/4 tsp)
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Olive oil (3 tbsp)
- Instead of All-Purpose Flour: Gluten‑free flour blend
- Instead of Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Water with 1 tsp bouillon
- Instead of Whole Milk: Half‑and‑half
- Instead of Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Extra sharp cheddar, Gruyère
- Instead of Ground Mustard: Dry mustard powder
- Instead of Paprika: Smoked paprika
Equipment Needed
- Large Soup Pot
- Cutting Board
- Chef’s Knife
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Whisk
- Immersion Blender or Regular Blender (optional)
- Ladle
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Use freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese to avoid greasiness or graininess
- Make a proper roux and whisk until smooth
- Add ground mustard for extra cheesy flavor and finish with paprika
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra depth, roast the broccoli florets in the oven for 10 minutes before adding them to the soup
- A splash of dry white wine added after the roux adds subtle acidity
- Top each serving with a drizzle of heavy cream and a pinch of smoked paprika for restaurant‑style presentation.
Troubleshooting
Soup is grainy or greasy
Ensure you use freshly shredded sharp cheddar and add the cheese gradually over low heat; avoid pre‑grated cheese.
Soup is too thick
Add additional broth or milk a few tablespoons at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Soup is too thin
Simmer a few minutes longer to reduce, or stir in a teaspoon of flour slurry (flour mixed with cold water).
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on stovetop over low heat.
Freezer: Freeze in freezer‑safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in fridge and reheat.
Room temperature: Do not store at room temperature; soup is perishable.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Soup can be made a day ahead; refrigerate and reheat gently
- For freezer storage, portion into individual containers and label with date
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of broccoli cheddar soup in American comfort food cuisine?
Broccoli cheddar soup emerged in the United States during the mid‑20th century as a hearty, family‑friendly dish that combined the nutritious green vegetable with the beloved flavor of sharp cheddar. It became a staple in diners and home kitchens, embodying the American comfort‑food tradition of simple, satisfying soups.
What are the traditional regional variations of broccoli cheddar soup in the United States?
In the Northeast, the soup often includes a splash of cream and is served with crusty bread. In the Midwest, some cooks add potatoes for extra thickness. Southern versions may incorporate a hint of smoked paprika or hot sauce for a subtle kick.
How is broccoli cheddar soup traditionally served in American households?
It is typically served hot in a bowl, garnished with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar, a dash of paprika, and sometimes a drizzle of cream. It pairs well with a side of crusty sour‑dough or a simple green salad.
What occasions or celebrations is broccoli cheddar soup traditionally associated with in American culture?
Broccoli cheddar soup is popular for casual family dinners, potlucks, and as a comforting starter during colder months. It’s also a common offering at holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving when a warm, creamy soup is desired.
What makes broccoli cheddar soup special or unique in American cuisine?
The combination of fresh broccoli’s slight bitterness with the sharp, aged cheddar creates a balanced flavor profile that is both nutritious and indulgent. Using freshly shredded cheese, as Chelsea advises, ensures a silky texture without the greasiness that pre‑grated cheese can cause.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for broccoli cheddar soup versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include fresh broccoli, sharp or extra‑sharp cheddar cheese, a butter‑flour roux, milk or cream, and chicken or vegetable broth. Acceptable substitutes are frozen broccoli, pre‑shredded cheese (though texture suffers), and half‑and‑half instead of milk.
What other American dishes pair well with broccoli cheddar soup?
It pairs nicely with grilled cheese sandwiches, a simple Caesar salad, roasted chicken, or a side of garlic‑buttered rolls. The soup’s creamy richness complements both protein‑rich and lighter fare.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making broccoli cheddar soup?
Common mistakes include using pre‑grated cheese (which can make the soup greasy), overcooking the roux (causing a burnt flavor), and adding cheese over high heat (which leads to grainy texture). Follow Chelsea’s tips: use freshly shredded sharp cheddar, keep the heat low when melting cheese, and finish with ground mustard and paprika.
Why does this broccoli cheddar soup recipe use ground mustard instead of dry mustard powder?
Ground mustard dissolves more evenly into the hot soup, enhancing the cheesy flavor without creating lumps. It also adds a subtle tang that brightens the richness of the cheddar.
Can I make broccoli cheddar soup ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, the soup can be prepared a day in advance. Cool it quickly, then refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
What does the YouTube channel Chelsea specialize in?
The YouTube channel Chelsea focuses on home‑cooking tutorials, emphasizing practical tips, ingredient shortcuts, and comfort‑food recipes that are easy for everyday cooks to replicate.
How does the YouTube channel Chelsea's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
Chelsea’s approach highlights simple, ingredient‑focused tricks—like using freshly shredded cheese and specific seasonings—to elevate classic dishes without fancy equipment, whereas many channels rely on pre‑made products or complex techniques.
Last updated: August 24, 2026
