Winter Comfort in a Bowl: Easy One Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup
What better way to combat the cold than with a steaming bowl of hearty Broccoli Cheddar Soup? This one pot soup recipe is not only deliciously comforting but also surprisingly healthy, making it the perfect choice for a satisfying lunch or dinner soup during those chilly months.
With its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and hearty ingredients, this One Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe is a winner in every way. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a comforting dinner option, this soup has you covered. So why not whip up a batch today and treat yourself to a bowl of warm and satisfying goodness? Your taste buds will thank you!
What is Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy and flavorful blend of fresh broccoli, grated carrots, rich cheddar cheese, and a touch of cream, all simmered together to perfection. It’s a classic comfort food dish that’s loved by both kids and adults alike. With its velvety texture and cheesy goodness, this soup is a surefire way to warm your soul on even the coldest of days.
What makes this Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe healthy?
While traditional Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipes may be heavy on cream and cheese, this version takes a lighter approach without sacrificing flavor. By using a combination of nutrient-rich ingredients like fresh vegetables, low-sodium broth, and just a touch of cream, you get all the creamy goodness you crave with a fraction of the calories and fat.
Why you’ll love this simple One pot recipe for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This one pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe is not only healthy but also incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a piping hot bowl of soup ready to enjoy in no time. Plus, its creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it a hit with even the pickiest of eaters.
RELATED: One Pot Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup
Ingredients you’ll need
To whip up a batch of this delicious soup, you’ll need:
- 1 head of broccoli, chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 ½ cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 potato, diced
Be sure to check out the full ingredient list and printable recipe in the recipe card below.
How to make One Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Making this delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a breeze! Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients, including fresh broccoli, grated carrot, heavy cream, butter, garlic, cheddar cheese, vegetable or chicken broth, and a potato. Chop the broccoli, mince the garlic, grate the carrot, and dice the potato.
- Sauté the Garlic: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a few minutes until fragrant, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
- Simmer the Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing it to heat up and infuse with the garlic flavor.
- Add Broth and Vegetables: Next, pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Then, add the chopped broccoli, grated carrot, and diced potato to the pot, letting them cook until tender. This step allows the vegetables to release their flavors and become perfectly tender.
- Melt in the Cheese: Once the vegetables are cooked through, it’s time to add the star ingredient: shredded cheddar cheese. Stir in the cheese until it melts completely and blends into the creamy soup, creating a luscious texture and adding a rich, cheesy flavor.
- Season to Taste: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors to suit your preferences. This step ensures that every spoonful is perfectly seasoned and bursting with deliciousness.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the hot soup into bowls or bread bowls, garnishing with extra shredded cheese if desired for an extra cheesy kick. Then, sit back, relax, and savor every spoonful of this warm and comforting Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
Make this One Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup, then check out my Instant Pot Seafood Chowder, or my Crockpot Southwest Chicken Soup (Chili’s Copycat) and more of my easy soup recipes.
TIPS AND FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Read on for tips and substitution ideas on how to make this recipe, such as how to customize this salad, and how to store this salad.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just as well in this recipe and can be a convenient option when fresh isn’t available.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or milk for a lighter version of this soup, although the consistency and richness may vary.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with a simple side salad or a crusty loaf of bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
How do I store leftovers of Broccoli Cheddar Soup
If you find yourself with leftovers (although that’s rare with this delicious soup!), simply transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat the soup gently on the stovetop until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Can I freeze leftover Broccoli Cheddar soup?
While you can freeze Broccoli Cheddar soup, the texture may change slightly upon thawing due to the dairy content. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for later consumption.
With just a few simple steps and a handful of wholesome ingredients, you’ll have a delicious homemade soup that’s perfect for warming you up on those chilly winter days. So why not give this easy recipe a try and treat yourself to a bowl of cozy goodness? Your taste buds will thank you!
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Other soup recipes to try
- Instant Pot Creamy Buffalo Chicken Soup
- Slow Cooker, Low Carb, Zucchini Soup
- Creamy Instant Pot French Onion Chicken Soup
One Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 head of broccoli, chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 ½ cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 potato (diced)
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a few minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Add the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add the chopped broccoli, potato and grated carrot to the pot. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious broccoli cheddar soup!
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 524Total Fat: 37gSaturated Fat: 23gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 112mgSodium: 640mgCarbohydrates: 35gFiber: 9gSugar: 8gProtein: 15g
The provided nutrition information is an estimate and it does not take brands into account. I use an automatic API to calculate this information.
