I’ve recreated Schlotzsky’s famous broccoli cheese soup recipe, and it’s a game-changer for comfort food lovers. 🔥 This creamy, cheesy delight is perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a warm, satisfying meal.
The secret to this recipe lies in its simplicity and attention to detail. By carefully blending steamed broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a touch of cream, we create a rich, velvety texture that’s hard to resist.
What sets this soup apart is its perfectly balanced flavor profile. The broccoli provides a fresh, green note, while the cheese adds a deep, comforting richness. Let’s get started on making this creamy broccoli cheese soup!
Ingredients for schlotzsky’s broccoli cheese soup
Here’s everything you need to create this creamy Schlotzsky’s broccoli cheese soup recipe at home.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Broccoli Florets 🥦 | 4 cups | Fresh, steamed until tender |
| Unsalted Butter 🧈 | 2 tbsp | For sautéing vegetables |
| Onion 🧅 | 1 whole | Finely chopped, yellow or white |
| Garlic Cloves 🧄 | 3 cloves | Minced, fresh |
| All-Purpose Flour 🌾 | 2 tbsp | For thickening soup |
| Chicken Broth 🍲 | 2 cups | Low-sodium, homemade or store-bought |
| Heavy Cream 🥛 | 1 cup | For creaminess, full-fat |
| Cheddar Cheese 🧀 | 2 cups | Sharp, freshly grated |
| Salt 🧂 | 1 tsp | Kosher or sea salt, to taste |
| Black Pepper 🌶️ | ½ tsp | Freshly ground, to taste |
| Nutmeg 🌿 | ¼ tsp | Freshly grated, optional |
[recipe_ingredient_scaler]
You can find most ingredients at your local grocery store. For the best quality cheddar, look for sharp varieties from Cabot or Tillamook at Whole Foods or specialty cheese shops. Choose fresh broccoli with tight florets and no yellowing. Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels.
Don't have sharp cheddar? Use a combination of mild cheddar and Parmesan for a similar flavor profile. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, though the soup will be less rich. If you prefer a vegan version, use nutritional yeast instead of cheese and vegetable broth.
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore creaminess. Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Schlotzsky’s Broccoli Cheese Soup
Let’s create this creamy, cheesy delight together – follow these steps for perfect results.
👨🍳 Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by melting the 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s fully melted and foamy, add the 1 whole Onion, finely chopped, and cook for 5-7 minutes until it’s translucent and starting to caramelize. You’ll know it’s ready when the onion is soft and fragrant, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma.
Next, add the 3 cloves Garlic Cloves, minced, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn – it should be lightly golden and smell amazing. Stir constantly to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
👨🍳 Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
While the aromatics are cooking, prepare the 4 cups Broccoli Florets. Make sure they’re fresh and steamed until tender. You can steam them in a separate pot or use a steamer basket in the pot you’re using for the soup. The broccoli should be tender but still crisp – this will help it retain its bright green color and texture in the finished soup.
Once the onion and garlic are ready, add the steamed broccoli to the pot. This will help distribute the flavors evenly and create a delicious base for your soup.
🍳 Step 3: Create the Roux and Add Liquid
Sprinkle the 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to create a smooth roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is lightly golden and has a nutty aroma. This step is crucial as it thickens the soup and adds depth to the flavor.
Gradually pour in the 2 cups Chicken Broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until it thickens. You’ll know it’s ready when the soup coats the back of a spoon and has a smooth, velvety texture.
🥘 Step 4: Finish with Cream and Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the 1 cup Heavy Cream. Let it heat through for 2-3 minutes until warmed through. The cream adds a rich, creamy texture to the soup, making it indulgent and satisfying.
Gradually add the 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth. Season with 1 tsp Salt, 0.5 tsp Black Pepper, and 0.25 tsp Nutmeg to taste. The cheese should be fully incorporated, creating a smooth, creamy soup with a deep, cheesy flavor.
⏰ Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the pot from the heat and let the soup cool slightly before serving. This will help prevent the cheese from separating and ensure a smooth, creamy texture. Serve hot, garnished with additional grated cheese or a sprinkle of papp on the paprika for added color.
Schlotzsky’s Broccoli Cheese Soup is a creamy and delicious treat that warms the heart and soul 🥘. To make this mouth-watering soup, you’ll need to combine a few simple ingredients, including fresh broccoli, onions, garlic, chicken broth, and a blend of cheddar and parmesan cheese. The key to this recipe is in the balance of flavors and textures, so be sure to sauté the onions and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant, then add in the broccoli and cook until it’s tender.
Key Ingredients 🔑
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets 🥦
- 1 medium onion, chopped 🍠
- 3 cloves garlic, minced 💡
- 2 cups chicken broth 🍲
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded 🧀
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated 🧀
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half 🌸
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Simply blend the cooked broccoli mixture with chicken broth, then stir in the shredded cheese until it’s melted and smooth. Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to give the soup a rich and creamy texture. You can also customize this recipe to your taste by adding a pinch of nutmeg or a sprinkle of paprika. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a few fresh broccoli florets, if desired 🌼.
Tips for the Perfect Broccoli Cheese Soup 💡
- Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcook the broccoli – it should be tender but still crisp.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as gruyère or fontina, for a unique flavor.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Schlotzsky’s Broccoli Cheese Soup
These tried-and-tested tips will help you achieve a creamy, cheesy broccoli cheese soup that’s just like Schlotzsky’s.
Broccoli Preparation: For the best flavor and texture, steam the 4 cups Broccoli Florets until tender but still crisp. This helps retain their bright green color and prevents mushiness in the finished soup. 💡
Roux Technique: When creating the roux in Step 3, cook the 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour mixture for the full 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. This step is crucial as it removes the raw flour taste and adds depth to the soup.
Cheese Melting: Gradually add the 2 cups Cheddar Cheese while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. For an extra smooth texture, you can shred the cheese yourself rather than using pre-shredded cheese. 🔥
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of Heavy Cream if needed to restore the creamy consistency. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Facts
320kcal
[recipe_ingredient_scaler]
Trained in classic French technique but raised on slow-cooked ribs and spicy rubs, she blends culinary skill with smoke and soul.
- Recipe for Boneless Pork Chops in Cast Iron Skillet: Sear and Baste to Juicy Perfection - October 3, 2026
- Recipe for Boneless Cross Rib Roast: Slow-Roasted Beef with Herb Crust - October 3, 2026
- Hamburgers in Sauce Recipe Crock Pot: Slow-Cooked Savory Delight - October 3, 2026