Bacon Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This cozy Bacon Broccoli Cheddar Soup brings together the smoky goodness of bacon, tender broccoli, and rich, creamy cheddar in every spoonful. Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup is quick and easy to make, delivering restaurant-quality flavor right at home!

This soup is my secret weapon for getting my kids to eat their veggies! Broccoli and carrots never tasted so good as when blended with creamy cheddar and bacon.

If you’re a fan of Panera’s broccoli cheddar soup, this homemade version just might win your heart. It’s savory, indulgent, and packed with better-for-you ingredients—so it feels like comfort food with benefits. Pair it with baked brie topped with hot honey and cranberries for a sophisticated twist that takes comfort food to a whole new level. Imagine a cozy loaded baked potato flavor combined with the hearty texture of veggies—it’s like the best of both worlds in one delicious bowl!

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need:

• Bacon – Crispy, smoky bacon adds a bold flavor and a bit of crunch.
• Broccoli – The star vegetable that balances the richness with its earthy, mild flavor. Use fresh or frozen broccoli. 
• Carrots – Adds a touch of sweetness and color to the soup.
• Milk – Makes the soup creamy without being overly heavy.
• Half and Half – Adds a richer, velvety texture to the soup.
• Flour – Helps thicken the soup for that classic creamy consistency.
• Onion – Sautéed onion brings in a savory base flavor.
• Garlic – Adds a fragrant depth to the soup.
• Broth – Use cups chicken stock or vegetable broth as the base for rich flavor.
• Butter – For sautéing and a bit of richness.
• Cheddar Cheese – Use shredded milk cheddar or sharp cheddar cheese for the perfect cheesy flavor.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.

See recipe card for quantities.

Substitution and Additions

• Turkey Bacon – For a lighter option, use turkey bacon; it adds flavor with less fat.
• Cauliflower – Swap or combine with broccoli for a milder, creamy vegetable blend.
• Heavy Cream – For an even creamier soup, substitute heavy cream for half and half.
• Vegetable Broth – Use veggie broth for a vegetarian version (skip the bacon or use a plant-based alternative).
• Greek Yogurt – Stir in some Greek yogurt at the end for a bit of tang and protein.
• Different Cheeses – Try a blend of shredded cheddar and Gruyère, or add a bit of Parmesan for extra depth.
• Potatoes – Add diced potatoes for a heartier, more filling soup.
• Chicken breast or rotisserie chicken - for extra boost of protein. 
• Spinach or Kale – Stir in some leafy greens for extra nutrition and color.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Add a dash if you like a hint of spice in your soup.

How To Make Bacon Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

1. Cook the Bacon – Start by cooking the bacon in a large pot or Instant Pot over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.

2. Sauté the Vegetables – In the same pot, add butter, then sauté the chopped onions and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.

3. Add the Flour – Sprinkle flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir and cook for about 2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.

4. Add Broth and milk- Gradually whisk in the cups of chicken stock and milk. 

5. Simmer - Add broccoli and carrots and bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

6. Add half and half and Cheese – Slowly pour in the half-and-half, stirring constantly to keep the soup creamy and smooth. Gradually add the shredded cheddar, stirring until it melts completely into the soup.

7. Top with Bacon – Chop up the cooked bacon and sprinkle it on top of the soup before serving. Enjoy!

Variations

• Broccoli Cauliflower Soup – Replace half the broccoli with cauliflower for a milder flavor and creamier texture.
• Extra Veggies – Add diced potatoes, spinach, or mushrooms for an extra-hearty, nutritious soup.
• Spicy Kick – Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or top with red pepper flakes if you like some heat.
• Cheese Blend – Use a mix of sharp cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, and Gruyère for a more complex cheese flavor.
• Thick and Chunky – Add extra broccoli or potatoes for a chunkier texture that’s almost like a stew.
• Lighter Version – Use turkey bacon and substitute Greek yogurt for half-and-half to lighten up the recipe.
• Garnish – Top with fresh chives, parsley, or a dollop of sour cream for a fresh finish.
• Bread Bowl – Hollow out a sourdough bread loaf and serve the soup inside for a restaurant-style touch.
• Crouton Topping – Top with crunchy croutons for added texture and flavor.

What To Serve With This

• Crusty Bread – A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up the soup.
• Garlic Bread – Add a bit of garlicky goodness to complement the soup’s cheesy flavor.
• Caesar Salad: The fresh crunch and tangy dressing of Caesar salad balance out the creamy soup.
• Buttery Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are perfect for soaking up every bit of the delicious soup.
• Side Salad – A fresh, light salad like Caesar or garden salad balances the richness of the soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich – Extra cheesy goodness that pairs perfectly with this creamy soup.
• Mac and Cheese: The creamy mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with the cheesy richness of the soup.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the soup’s smooth, velvety texture.
• Grilled Asparagus: This enhances the bacon notes in the soup.
• Baked Potatoes – Add a hearty, comforting side dish that’s filling and pairs well with the flavors.
• Crackers or Crostini: Light and crispy, these add crunch without overpowering the soup’s flavors.
• Cornbread – Slightly sweet cornbread adds a fun contrast to the savory soup.
• Sautéed Mushrooms: The earthy flavor of sautéed mushrooms adds a savory depth that complements the creamy, cheesy soup.
• Roasted Vegetables – Roasted carrots, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts add a nice texture contrast.
• Biscuits – Fluffy, buttery biscuits are perfect for dipping and make the meal feel extra special.
• Fruit Salad – A fresh fruit salad provides a sweet, refreshing side that balances the heaviness of the soup.

How to Store Leftovers

Let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure it stays creamy.

Recipe FAQs

Easy Vegetables

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