Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup | Healthy & Comforting Dinner Favorite

Few things beat a bowl of creamy broccoli cheddar soup on a chilly evening. Warm, thick, and full of flavor, this healthy version keeps all the creamy comfort you love but lightens it up with wholesome ingredients. It’s one of those whole food recipes that proves you don’t need heavy cream or tons of butter to make something truly satisfying.

This soup has been trending again in 2025 — maybe because everyone is craving that mix of cozy and clean eating. Whether you’re focused on чистое питание (clean eating), recetas fitness (fitness recipes), or just want an easy, nutrient-packed healthy soup recipe for dinner, this broccoli cheddar soup fits the bill perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light yet creamy: Made with milk and a touch of Greek yogurt for creaminess without excess fat.
• Whole food ingredients: Fresh broccoli, onions, and carrots create rich flavor naturally.
• Quick & easy: Ready in just 30 minutes — great for weeknight meals.
• Kid-approved: The cheesy taste makes it a winner even for picky eaters!

This version is inspired by the Panera classic but simplified for home cooks. It’s a healthy soup that tastes indulgent, perfect for pairing with a crusty whole-grain baguette or a crisp salad.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, shredded
• 3 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
• 3 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup milk (2% or whole)
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or light cream)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative)
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Sauté the base: In a large soup pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and carrots. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Add flour: Sprinkle in flour and stir for 1 minute to remove the raw taste. This step helps thicken the soup.
3. Add broth and broccoli: Slowly pour in broth while whisking. Add broccoli florets. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook 10–12 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
4. Blend: Use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. (You can also transfer half to a blender and return it to the pot.)
5. Add dairy: Lower the heat. Stir in milk, Greek yogurt, nutmeg, and cheddar cheese until smooth. Do not boil after adding cheese or dairy to prevent curdling.
6. Season & serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Serve hot with a sprinkle of extra cheddar or fresh parsley.

Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Use freshly shredded cheddar — pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
• For extra nutrition, toss in a handful of spinach or kale at the end.
• Swap cheddar for a mix of white cheddar and Parmesan for a bolder flavor.
• To make it vegan, use plant milk and vegan cheese — the texture stays surprisingly creamy!

Serving Ideas

This easy soup pairs wonderfully with toasted sourdough or an Air Fryer Garlic Potato side dish. For a cozy meal, serve alongside One Pot Chicken and Rice or enjoy it as part of your winter dinner for kids lineup — they’ll love the cheesy flavor!

Variations

• Protein Boost: Add cooked shredded chicken or turkey for a heartier bowl.
• Spicy Twist: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace the flour with pureed cauliflower for thickness.
• Gourmet Upgrade: Top with roasted broccoli florets and a drizzle of olive oil.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently. To freeze, let it cool completely and freeze up to 2 months. Reheat slowly to preserve creaminess.

FAQ

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Absolutely. Add it directly to the pot — no need to thaw.

What cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor balance. Mild cheddar or a mix with Colby works too.

Can I meal prep this?

Yes! Make a double batch and store in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Is it healthy?

Yes — this healthy soup recipe uses whole ingredients, reduced-fat dairy, and minimal butter for a light yet satisfying meal.

This creamy broccoli cheddar soup is everything we love about comfort food — creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying — but with a fresh, healthy twist that makes it fit beautifully into a whole food lifestyle. Perfect for cozy dinners, lunch prep, or chilly weekend evenings with family.