The moment I first dipped a spoon into a bowl of homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup, I was transported to a cozy kitchen on a chilly afternoon. The creamy texture and rich cheesy flavor wrapped around me like a warm blanket, sparking a nostalgic craving for comfort food that never faded. If you share my love for wholesome, homemade dishes, this Instant Pot Broccoli Cheese Soup is a game changer—it marries freshness with indulgence in just 15 minutes!
Imagine bustling through a busy week, craving something hearty yet quick. This recipe offers the best of both worlds; vibrant broccoli florets, tender carrots, and that irresistible cheese elevate a simple meal into a celebratory experience. A delightful surprise for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, it’s a dish that pleases everyone at the table. Dive into this easy, creamy bowl of goodness and discover how a few quality ingredients can transform an ordinary meal into something extraordinarily delicious!
Why is Broccoli Cheddar Soup a must-try?
Quick Preparation: In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this delightful soup from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Creamy Delight: The combination of heavy cream and two types of cheese creates a luxuriously creamy soup that’s both rich and satisfying.
Fresh Ingredients: Packed with broccoli and carrots, this soup not only tastes heavenly but also brings a burst of color and nutrition to your table.
Family Favorite: With its delicious flavor and comforting texture, it’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. When entertaining, consider pairing it with some warm, crusty bread for a complete meal.
Instant Pot Magic: Using an Instant Pot means less fuss and more flavor, allowing you to create a comforting dish without spending all day in the kitchen.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Ingredients
The secret to rich and creamy broccoli cheddar soup lies in the quality of your ingredients!
For the Base
• Chicken broth – Provides a flavorful base that enhances the soup’s richness.
• Minced yellow onion – Adds a comforting depth of flavor, sautéing beautifully with the other ingredients.
• Broccoli florets – Fresh and vibrant, they give the soup its signature taste and nutrition.
• Matchstick carrots – Bring a touch of sweetness and a pop of color, balancing the flavors perfectly.
• Minced garlic, dried – Infuses the soup with aromatic goodness; fresh garlic is a great substitute!
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste, adjusting to your personal preference.
For the Creaminess
• Heavy cream – This luxurious ingredient delivers that irresistible creaminess that makes the soup so comforting.
• Shredded parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty flavor and richness that elevates the dish.
• Mild cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully and creates a classic cheesy flavor loved by all.
For Thickening
• Cornstarch – Acts as a thickener, giving the soup a hearty consistency without a floury taste.
• Water – Used to create a slurry with cornstarch, allowing for smooth incorporation into the soup.
With these Broccoli Cheddar Soup ingredients at your fingertips, you’re well on your way to crafting a deliciously comforting meal that warms the soul. Enjoy!
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup
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Combine Ingredients: Add the chicken broth, minced onion, broccoli florets, matchstick carrots, dried garlic, salt, and pepper to your Instant Pot. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
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Cook: Secure the lid and set your Instant Pot to Manual (or pressure cook) on HIGH for just 2 minutes. After cooking, allow for a 3-minute natural pressure release before carefully releasing any remaining pressure manually.
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Add Cream: Open the lid and stir in the heavy cream. Switch the setting to Saute LOW and heat the mixture, stirring occasionally, until it’s just about to simmer. Turn off the Instant Pot at this stage.
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Mix in Cheese: Gradually add in the shredded parmesan and mild cheddar cheeses, stirring until both are fully melted and blended into the creamy soup.
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Thicken: For the Slurry: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the soup, stirring continuously until it thickens to your desired consistency.
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Serve: Ladle out the soup into warm bowls and enjoy it hot!
Optional: Garnish with additional cheese or fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Fridge: Store leftover broccoli cheddar soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream to restore creaminess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating: When reheating from the fridge or freezer, heat on low to avoid separating the cream. Stir often and add a little water or broth if needed to achieve a smooth consistency.
Portioning: Consider freezing in individual portions for a quick and easy lunch or dinner option. This way, you can enjoy this comforting broccoli cheddar soup whenever you need a warm pick-me-up!
Expert Tips for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• Quality Ingredients: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh broccoli and high-quality cheeses make a significant difference in your broccoli cheddar soup.
• Avoid Overcooking: Cooking the vegetables too long can result in mushiness. Stick to the 2-minute cook time for perfectly tender broccoli and carrots that retain their color and nutrition.
• Cheese Melting: Add cheese gradually and stir continuously to prevent clumping. It ensures a smooth, creamy texture in your soup.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, add more cornstarch slurry. Start with a smaller addition to avoid over-thickening, as the soup will continue to thicken as it cools.
• Creative Add-ins: Feel free to add other vegetables or proteins to your broccoli cheddar soup for a personalized touch. Cooked chicken or cauliflower can complement the flavors beautifully!
These helpful tips will ensure your broccoli cheddar soup is a resounding success every time you make it!
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Variations
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect bowl of goodness!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese for a rich and creamy vegan option.
- Extra Veggie Boost: Add chopped spinach or kale at the end of cooking for an extra nutrient punch and vibrant color in your soup.
- Protein-Packed: Stir in cooked, shredded chicken or turkey to make this soup even heartier and more satisfying for your family.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a flavorful heat that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese.
- Smoky Flavor: Use smoked cheddar cheese instead of mild cheddar for an added depth of flavor that transforms your soup into something unique.
- Nutty Twist: Top your bowl with toasted almond slivers or pine nuts for a delightful crunch that complements the creaminess of the soup.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can brighten the flavors—add them during the sauté phase for an aromatic boost.
- Zesty Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brings a bright finish that balances the richness of the cheeses beautifully.
Explore these variations, and embrace the joy of customizing your broccoli cheddar soup to fit your family’s tastes!
Make Ahead Options
These Broccoli Cheddar Soup prep options are perfect for busy home cooks seeking convenience! You can pre-chop the broccoli florets and matchstick carrots, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, prepare the broth mixture by combining the chicken broth, minced onion, dried garlic, salt, and pepper and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting soup, simply add the prepped veggies, pressure cook for 2 minutes, stir in the heavy cream and cheeses, and finish with the cornstarch slurry. This way, your Broccoli Cheddar Soup shines just as brightly without sacrificing taste or quality!
What to Serve with Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Imagine the comforting aroma wafting from your kitchen as you prepare a splendid meal to accompany your luscious soup.
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Crusty Bread: The perfect vessel for dipping, its crispy exterior and soft interior enhance every spoonful of soup you savor.
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Mixed Green Salad: Fresh greens drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette add a delightful crunch, contrasting beautifully with the creamy soup.
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Garlic Breadsticks: With a crispy crust and buttery garlic essence, these breadsticks make every bite of soup a flavor-packed experience.
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Baked Potato Wedges: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these wedges create a hearty addition that rounds out your dinner.
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Roasted Veggies: Vibrant seasonal vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini offer a wonderful roasted sweetness and nutritional kick.
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Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with this warm dessert; its cinnamon-spiced apples and crumbly topping will charm your taste buds.
Elevate your dining experience by pairing these delightful dishes with your Broccoli Cheddar Soup for a complete and satisfying meal!
Instant Pot Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of broccoli should I use?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli florets are ideal for this recipe. Look for vibrant green heads without dark spots or yellowing. If fresh isn’t available, you can also use frozen broccoli; just add it directly to the pot without thawing.
How long can I store leftover broccoli cheddar soup?
Store leftover broccoli cheddar soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before reheating, I suggest stirring in a little extra cream to bring back some of that luscious texture, warming it gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze broccoli cheddar soup?
Yes! You can freeze this delightful soup for up to 3 months. To do this, let it cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers. Be sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently to enjoy your creamy bowl of goodness.
My soup is too thin; what can I do?
No worries! If your broccoli cheddar soup isn’t thick enough, you can make a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the simmering soup slowly until it reaches your desired thickness. Keep in mind that the soup will thicken a little more as it cools.
Is this soup suitable for people with lactose intolerance?
Very! If you have lactose intolerance, you can use lactose-free heavy cream and cheese alternatives. Products made from almond milk or cashew milk can also work well. Just make sure to adjust the thickness with cornstarch as needed for a creamy finish.
Can kids eat broccoli cheddar soup?
Definitely! This broccoli cheddar soup is a fantastic way to sneak in some healthy vegetables. The mild flavors and creamy texture make it appealing to kids. Serve it alongside whole-grain bread for a well-rounded meal that they will love!
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup in Just 15 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine Ingredients: Add the chicken broth, minced onion, broccoli florets, matchstick carrots, dried garlic, salt, and pepper to your Instant Pot. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
- Cook: Secure the lid and set your Instant Pot to Manual (or pressure cook) on HIGH for just 2 minutes. After cooking, allow for a 3-minute natural pressure release before carefully releasing any remaining pressure manually.
- Add Cream: Open the lid and stir in the heavy cream. Switch the setting to Saute LOW and heat the mixture, stirring occasionally, until it’s just about to simmer. Turn off the Instant Pot at this stage.
- Mix in Cheese: Gradually add in the shredded parmesan and mild cheddar cheeses, stirring until both are fully melted and blended into the creamy soup.
- Thicken: For the Slurry: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the soup, stirring continuously until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Serve: Ladle out the soup into warm bowls and enjoy it hot!