Copycat Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli cheddar soup is a cozy, creamy soup you can easily make at home that tastes like a restaurant version.

🥣 Copycat Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Ingredients

• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 3 cups broccoli florets (chopped small)
• 2 carrots, shredded (optional but classic)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• Pinch of paprika or mustard powder (optional)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Sauté aromatics
   • Melt butter in a pot over medium heat.
   • Add onion and cook until soft.
   • Stir in garlic for 30 seconds.
2. Make the base
   • Add flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes (this forms a roux).
   • Slowly whisk in milk, then broth until smooth.
3. Cook vegetables
   • Add broccoli and carrots.
   • Simmer 10–15 minutes until tender.
4. Blend (optional)
   • For a smoother soup, blend part of it and return to pot.
5. Add cheese
   • Lower heat and stir in cheddar cheese gradually until melted.
6. Season & serve
   • Add salt, pepper, and optional spices.
   • Serve warm.

🧀 Tips for the best flavor

• Use sharp Cheddar cheese for stronger taste
• Don’t boil after adding cheese (prevents grainy texture)
• Fresh broccoli gives better texture than frozen
• Add a splash of cream for extra richness

🍞 Serving ideas

• In a bread bowl
• With crusty bread or toast
• Topped with extra cheese or croutons

🧾 Bottom line

Broccoli cheddar soup is easy to recreate at home with basic ingredients, and the key to its restaurant-style flavor is a smooth roux base, fresh broccoli, and good-quality cheddar cheese.