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Creamy Kosher Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe - American recipe
There's nothing quite like a bowl of creamy broccoli cheddar soup when the weather turns cold. This kosher version delivers all the comfort you're craving without compromising on flavor or dietary requirements. I've been perfecting this recipe for years, and it's become my go-to whenever I need something that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. The key to making this soup work within kosher guidelines is using the right dairy base and building layers of flavor from the start. I start by sautéing onions until they're golden and sweet, then add fresh garlic for that aromatic foundation. The broccoli gets added in stages, with some going in early to break down and thicken the soup naturally, while other pieces stay more intact for texture. You'll want to use a good quality kosher cheddar here. It makes a real difference in the final taste. What sets this recipe apart is the technique for incorporating the cheese. Instead of just dumping it in and hoping for the best, I remove the pot from heat first and add the cheese gradually while whisking. This prevents the dreaded grainy texture that happens when cheese gets too hot too fast. A splash of white wine adds depth, though you can skip it if you prefer. This soup works beautifully as a starter for Shabbat dinner or as a complete weeknight meal with some crusty bread alongside. I often make a double batch because it freezes well, though you'll want to reheat it gently and maybe add a splash of milk to get the consistency just right.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons kosher butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups vegetable broth kosher certified
  • 1 cup whole milk kosher
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream kosher
  • 5 cups fresh broccoli florets cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups kosher sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine optional
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg freshly grated

Method
 

  1. In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 5-6 minutes until softened and lightly golden.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and stir constantly for 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
  3. Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. The mixture should be smooth without lumps.
  4. Add the white wine (if using) and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add 3 cups of the broccoli florets and let them cook for 8-10 minutes until very tender.
  5. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend about half the soup to create a chunky but creamy texture. Alternatively, transfer 2 cups of the soup to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and return to the pot.
  6. Add the remaining 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets and simmer for 5-7 minutes until tender but still bright green.
  7. Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in the milk and cream. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and nutmeg.
  8. Remove the pot from heat completely. Gradually add the grated cheese in small handfuls, whisking constantly after each addition until melted and smooth.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If the soup is too thick, thin with a little more milk or broth. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

For best results, grate your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded, which contains anti-caking agents that can make the soup grainy. The soup can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days, but add the cheese just before serving for the smoothest texture. When reheating, do so gently over low heat and thin with additional milk if needed. This soup freezes well for up to 3 months, but again, add fresh cheese when reheating.
Nutrition Facts
6 servings per recipe
Serving size 1 serving
Calories 285
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 20g 26%
Saturated Fat 12g 60%
Trans Fat 0g
Cholesterol 55mg 18%
Sodium 680mg 30%
Dietary Fiber 3g 11%
Total Sugars 8g
Protein 12g 24%