There’s something undeniably comforting about a pot of broccoli cheese soup bubbling gently on the stove. It’s the kind of meal that invites you to slow down, cozy up with a blanket, and savor the little things—like the rich, velvety texture of melted cheese and the tender bite of broccoli florets.

Growing up, broccoli cheese soup was a staple on chilly evenings. It was the meal my mom made when we had leftover veggies in the fridge and needed something quick but hearty. But this version? This one’s a little more grown-up. It’s got a smoky twist, thanks to the smoked gouda, and just the right amount of creaminess to make it feel indulgent without being too heavy.

Smoked gouda brings a depth of flavor that elevates this soup from nostalgic comfort food to something you’d proudly serve guests or make for a special weekend dinner. It’s the kind of dish that surprises people—simple in ingredients, but big on flavor.

Whether you’re curling up on the couch with a bowl and a good book or serving it alongside warm bread at a family dinner, this Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup is the definition of cozy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Ultra Creamy and Comforting: Perfect for cold evenings or when you need a little pick-me-up.
• Easy to Make: Comes together in under an hour, with simple ingredients and minimal fuss.
• Smoky, Cheesy Goodness: Smoked gouda gives it a unique, deep flavor that sets it apart from typical broccoli cheese soups.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spice it up with a dash of crushed red pepper.
• Great for Meal Prep: Makes a generous batch that reheats beautifully for lunches or quick dinners.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 2 cups shredded smoked gouda cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

HOW TO MAKE SMOKED GOUDA BROCCOLI SOUP:

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by melting butter in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbling, toss in your diced onion. Cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent—about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Your kitchen will already be smelling amazing.

Step 2: Add the Broccoli and Broth
Next, stir in the chopped broccoli florets. Pour in the chicken broth, and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let the broccoli cook for about 10 minutes, or until it’s tender enough to pierce easily with a fork. Don’t worry if the broccoli looks a little mushy—that’s exactly what you want for a creamy soup.

Step 3: Stir in the Dairy and Spices
Once the broccoli is soft, pour in the milk and heavy cream. Give it a good stir, then season with black pepper, paprika, nutmeg, and salt. Let everything warm through, but avoid boiling at this point—just a nice low simmer is all you need.

Step 4: Blend (Optional)
If you prefer a smoother soup, now’s the time to use an immersion blender right in the pot. You can blend the entire soup or just part of it, depending on your texture preference. Personally, I like a mix—some creamy base with little broccoli bits for texture.

Step 5: Stir in the Cheese
Lower the heat to the lowest setting and slowly add in your smoked gouda and sharp cheddar. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Don’t rush this part—slow melting prevents clumps and gives you that perfectly velvety texture.

Step 6: Taste and Serve
Give the soup a final taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Then ladle it into bowls and serve hot. A sprinkle of extra cheese on top or a little cracked pepper makes it extra inviting.

HELPFUL TIPS:

• Cut the Broccoli Small: Smaller pieces cook faster and blend better, creating a smoother consistency.
• Low and Slow for the Cheese: Always melt cheese on low heat to avoid separating or clumping.
• Want It Thicker? Add a tablespoon of flour to the onions and garlic before adding the broth.
• Add a Crunch: Serve with toasted bread, croutons, or even a grilled turkey ham sandwich on the side.
• Make It Vegetarian: Use veggie broth instead of chicken broth.

DETAILS:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian-friendly (with veggie broth substitution)

NOTES:

This soup is incredibly versatile. Add extra vegetables like carrots or cauliflower if you want to bulk it up a bit. You can also swap out cheeses—sharp white cheddar, fontina, or even pepper jack could work if you’re feeling adventurous. Just be sure to keep the smoked gouda as your base—that smoky note is what gives this soup its magic.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:

(Estimated per serving)
Calories: 420
Fat: 31g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 18g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 580mg

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just thaw it first and chop if necessary. Frozen broccoli may cook a little quicker, so keep an eye on texture.

Can I freeze this soup?
Because it contains dairy, it might separate slightly when frozen and reheated. If you do freeze it, reheat gently on the stove while stirring continuously.

Is smoked gouda strong?
Smoked gouda has a distinctive flavor but isn’t overpowering. It’s mellow, creamy, and adds depth without being too bold.

Can I use a different milk?
Whole milk is ideal for creaminess, but you can use 2% in a pinch. Non-dairy options like oat milk work, though they’ll slightly change the flavor.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Let the soup cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm slowly on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Related Recipes

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Polish Dill Soup (Zupa Koperkowa)
• Country French Garlic Soup
• Hearty Cajun Potato Soup
• Classic French Onion Soup (Without Wine) – A Cozy and Comforting

CONCLUSION

This Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup is the kind of recipe that becomes a regular in your cold-weather rotation. It’s easy to make, richly satisfying, and has that wow-factor that comes from just a touch of smoky cheese. Whether you’re making it for yourself on a quiet night or sharing it with family, it’s one of those meals that makes you feel taken care of.

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