Description
Loaded Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a rich, creamy, and comforting easy dinner packed with tender broccoli, sharp cheddar, and crispy bacon in every bite. This cozy bowl is perfect for quick dinner nights, comfort food cravings, easy recipe planning, and hearty food ideas when you want warm homemade flavor with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
6 slices bacon, chopped
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups chicken broth
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
5 cups broccoli florets, chopped
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled, for topping
1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, for topping
1 tablespoon chopped parsley, optional
Instructions
1. Cook the chopped bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crisp. Remove and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of drippings in the pot.
2. Add the butter, then cook the onion for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Sprinkle in the flour and stir for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, then add the milk and heavy cream.
4. Add the broccoli, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella a little at a time until melted and smooth.
6. Stir half of the cooked bacon into the soup.
7. Ladle into bowls and top with the remaining bacon, extra cheddar, and parsley if desired.
Notes
Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and gives the soup a creamier texture.
Keep the heat low when adding cheese so the soup stays silky and does not turn grainy.
Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating leftovers if the soup thickens in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 95mg