There’s something special about a bowl of creamy vegetable soup on a cool evening. This Creamy Vegetable Soup brings all the warmth of comfort food with a nourishing twist—loaded with fresh broccoli, carrots, and potatoes in a rich cheddar broth. It’s cozy, cheesy, and surprisingly simple to make, blending comfort and nutrition in the best way possible.

The soup has a silky texture, thanks to the combination of tender vegetables and melted sharp cheddar cheese. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main dish, yet light enough to enjoy any day of the week. Whether you’re meal-prepping for lunches, hosting family dinner, or craving something warm and satisfying, this creamy vegetable soup checks every box.

Why You’ll Love It

Wholesome comfort: Packed with fresh vegetables and real cheddar for the perfect balance of hearty and healthy.
Creamy & cheesy: Melted cheese creates a velvety, rich texture that feels indulgent.
Family-friendly: A great way to sneak in veggies while keeping everyone happy.
Make-ahead friendly: Tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
One pot magic: Minimal dishes, maximum flavor.

Time Needed

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 yellow onion, diced
10 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound carrots, peeled and diced
2 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
32 oz vegetable broth
2 cups finely chopped broccoli florets
8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
2 cups milk
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Salt, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the aromatics In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened and fragrant, about 7–10 minutes.
Add the carrots and potatoes Stir in the diced carrots and cook for 5 minutes, then add the potatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Make it creamy In a small bowl, whisk the flour with milk until smooth. Slowly pour it into the pot, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the broccoli and simmer for 10–15 minutes, until the soup thickens and the vegetables are tender.
Add the cheese Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar until melted and creamy. Season with salt to taste.
Serve & enjoy Ladle into bowls and serve warm with crusty bread or crackers for dipping. The soup will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.

Variations to Try

Broccoli Cheddar Twist: Add extra cheddar and double the broccoli for a Panera-style vibe.
Protein Boost: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken for a heartier meal.
Lighten it up: Use 1% milk or almond milk and skip the flour for a lighter texture.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for subtle heat.

Tips from Chef Emma

Cut your vegetables small so they cook evenly and soften nicely.
Always use freshly grated cheese—it melts smoother and tastes better.
For extra richness, add a splash of cream right before serving.
Pair with sourdough or garlic bread for the ultimate cozy meal.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days—perfect for meal prep!

Nutrition Info per Serving

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 365
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 20g
Sodium: 980mg
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 11g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this soup gluten-free?
A: Yes! Swap the flour for cornstarch or a gluten-free blend, and it thickens beautifully.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Absolutely. Let it cool completely and store in freezer bags for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove.
Q: What cheese works best?
A: Sharp cheddar adds the best flavor and creaminess, but mild or white cheddar works too.
Q: How can I make it vegan?
A: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and vegan cheddar for a fully vegan version.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Vegetable Soup brings together the best of both worlds—rich and indulgent yet wholesome and full of veggies. It’s everything you want on a cold day: cheesy, cozy, and comforting from the very first spoonful. Save this recipe to your Soup or Comfort Food board—it’s the kind of classic you’ll crave again and again!