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20 Minute Broccoli Cheese Soup

This 20 Minute Broccoli Cheese Soup is a quick, creamy, and satisfying comfort food made with fresh broccoli, carrots, sharp cheddar, and parmesan cheese. Ready in just 20 minutes, this easy one-pot soup delivers restaurant-quality flavor with simple ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights, cozy lunches, or an easy family-friendly dinner.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli chopped
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • ½ teaspoon thyme
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups light cream
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • ⅓ cup fresh parmesan cheese grated

Instructions

  • In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat and cook onion and carrots until onion is soft, about 3 minutes.
  • Add broccoli, chicken broth, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; simmer for about 8 minutes until broccoli is tender.
  • Remove 1 cup of vegetables, coarsely chop, and set aside.
  • Use an immersion blender to blend the remaining vegetables and broth until smooth.
  • In a small bowl, whisk flour with cream until smooth.
  • Bring blended soup to a boil and whisk in the cream mixture.
  • Continue cooking and whisking until thick and bubbly, about 3–4 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, and reserved vegetables.
  • Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Notes

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • Substitute half-and-half for light cream if needed.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.

Make-Ahead

  • Store in the refrigerator up to 4 days.
  • Reheat gently over low heat, stirring often.

Serving Variations

  • Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast.
  • Top with extra shredded cheese or croutons.
  • Add cooked chicken or bacon for extra protein.

Avoid Mistakes

  • Don’t boil after adding cheese or it may separate.
  • Whisk flour and cream thoroughly to avoid lumps.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting.