Imagine this: a cozy evening, and you’re about to dive into a warm bowl of broccoli cheese soup. You’ve got the soup simmering on the stove, and you’re thinking about what to pair with it. A crusty loaf of bread is a classic choice—perfect for dipping.
If you’re in the mood for something light, a crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette does wonders. A side of roasted garlic bread can elevate your meal to a whole new level of indulgence.
And if you really want to impress, consider a simple grilled cheese sandwich alongside. Now, let’s embark on a delightful journey through my copycat version of broccoli cheese soup.
Feeding a family or treating yourself to comfort food often leads to the same thoughts: what's quick, satisfying, and undeniably delicious? Enter broccoli cheese soup. This recipe is a versatile crowd-pleaser, and I can confidently say it deserves a place in your kitchen arsenal.
I adore broccoli cheese soup, not just for its delightful taste but also for its goodness. Broccoli is a powerhouse of nutrients, and combined with creamy cheese, it’s like having a warm hug. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the ability to whip it up in about 30 minutes.
I remember the first time I experimented with broccoli cheese soup. I was in my tiny kitchen, armed with fresh ingredients and a desire to recreate a beloved restaurant favorite. The moment that first spoonful touched my lips, I knew I had struck gold.
This recipe is packed with flavor and makes the most of straightforward ingredients. Plus, it's relatively forgiving—if you’re low on a few items, you might be able to get away with some substitutions.
Let me take you through the star players in this soup. Each one has a vital role, and together, they create an unforgettable experience.
2 cups vegetable stock
2 cups whole milk or unsweetened coconut milk
¼ cup all-purpose flour
3 cups broccoli florets, roughly chopped
1 large carrot, thinly sliced or finely diced
8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese, approximately 2 heaping cups
½ teaspoon spicy Dijon mustard
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
½ teaspoon Himalayan pink salt
Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Homemade garlic croutons, for serving
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
Ready to bring this dream to life? Let’s jump right into the cooking process. Here’s how I whip up this delightful dish.
Start by melting 4 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, toss in the diced onion. Let it sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
The smell wafting through your kitchen will be incredible. Add the minced garlic next, cooking until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Now it's time for the carrot. This adds sweetness and color! Stir in the thinly sliced or diced carrot and cook for another 2 minutes.
Next, sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes. This forms the base of your soup—trust me, this step is crucial for that creamy consistency.
After the flour has been incorporated, it’s time to pour in the vegetable stock and milk. I like to whisk everything together to avoid any lumps. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer while continuously stirring.
Once simmering, add the chopped broccoli florets. Cook until the broccoli is tender, about 5-7 minutes. The broth should be thickening nicely, and you’ll notice the vibrant green of the broccoli shining through.
Now comes the most exciting part: the cheese. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until it's melted and combined. This is where the comfort factor really ramps up!
Add the Dijon mustard, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust if needed. You might want an extra pinch of salt or a dash more mustard to suit your palate.
Ladle the soup into bowls and finish it with homemade croutons and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for that added umami kick. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Here’s a look at the ingredients again, but with some more detailed insight into why I love each one.
Vegetable Stock: It provides a flavorful base. Homemade stock is great, but store-bought works well in a pinch.
Milk/Coconut Milk: Gives that creamy texture. Whole milk is classic, but coconut adds a twist.
All-Purpose Flour: This is used to thicken the soup without overpowering the flavor.
Broccoli: The star! Packed with vitamins and adds a beautiful vibrant color.
Carrot: It’s a secret weapon for sweetness, enhancing the flavor profile.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives that rich, bold flavor.
Dijon Mustard: Adds a nice zing to the soup that's unexpected yet delightful.
Garlic and Onion: These provide foundational flavors that make this soup comforting.
Thyme: Fresh herbs always elevate a dish. Thyme works wonderfully with cheese.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing the overall taste.
Butter: A bit of fat makes everything better—just saying!
Croutons: These provide an essential textural contrast to the creamy soup.
Nutritional Yeast: A trendy touch for anyone looking for extra flavor and nutrients.
Want to switch it up? Try these variations to keep things fresh:
copycat 30 minute broccoli cheese soup nutrition facts
And there you have it—the comforting magic of copycat 30 minute broccoli cheese soup. This dish is perfect for those busy nights but luxurious enough to serve to guests.
Each spoonful is filled with the goodness of broccoli, vibrant flavors, and comforting cheese. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies without compromising on taste.
I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your home, just as it has in mine. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or simply needing a hug in a bowl, this soup delivers every time. Grab your ingredients and give it a try; your taste buds will undoubtedly thank you!
Feeding a family or treating yourself to comfort food often leads to the same thoughts: what's quick, satisfying, and undeniably delicious? Enter broccoli cheese soup. This recipe is a versatile crowd-pleaser, and I can confidently say it deserves a place in your kitchen arsenal.
Servings 4
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Here’s a look at the ingredients again, but with some more detailed insight into why I love each one.
Vegetable Stock: It provides a flavorful base. Homemade stock is great, but store-bought works well in a pinch.
Milk/Coconut Milk: Gives that creamy texture. Whole milk is classic, but coconut adds a twist.
All-Purpose Flour: This is used to thicken the soup without overpowering the flavor.
Broccoli: The star! Packed with vitamins and adds a beautiful vibrant color.
Carrot: It’s a secret weapon for sweetness, enhancing the flavor profile.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives that rich, bold flavor.
Dijon Mustard: Adds a nice zing to the soup that's unexpected yet delightful.
Garlic and Onion: These provide foundational flavors that make this soup comforting.
Thyme: Fresh herbs always elevate a dish. Thyme works wonderfully with cheese.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing the overall taste.
Butter: A bit of fat makes everything better—just saying!
Croutons: These provide an essential textural contrast to the creamy soup.
Nutritional Yeast: A trendy touch for anyone looking for extra flavor and nutrients.
Kathleen Looney is a Texas-based registered dietitian and the creator of Easy Comfort Food Recipes, where she shares simple, hearty dishes that bring warmth and joy to the table. Combining her love for Southern classics and Tex-Mex flavors, Kathleen creates approachable recipes that balance indulgence and nutrition. Her passion lies in helping home cooks prepare comforting, soul-satisfying meals that nourish both body and spirit.