Broccoli Sharp Cheddar Soup with Celery and Nutmeg

Name: Broccoli Sharp Cheddar Soup with Celery and Nutmeg
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 to 6 servings
Cuisine: American-inspired
Ingredients: 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 whole large onion, diced; 2 whole celery stalks, diced; 1 kg broccoli florets and peeled stems, chopped; 1 l chicken or vegetable stock; 250 ml whole milk; 200 g sharp cheddar, grated; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ground turmeric, optional; to taste salt and black pepper

A creamy broccoli soup with sharp cheddar, onion, celery and a hint of nutmeg.

By Savva LoginovUpdated October 2, 2026

Total 45 minMakes 4 to 6 servings

Jump to Recipe

This creamy broccoli cheddar soup starts with onion and celery softened in butter, then simmers broccoli in chicken stock until tender. Blend part of the soup for body and stir in cheddar off the boil so it melts smoothly. The source includes turmeric and nutmeg; use them lightly so they support rather than dominate the cheese. Add the cheese gradually and taste before salting. Melt butter in a large pot. Cook onion and celery over medium heat 6 minutes until soft. Add chopped broccoli and stock. Bring to a boil, then simmer 12 to 15 minutes until tender. Blend about half the soup until smooth, then return it to the pot. Stir in milk, nutmeg and turmeric if using. Warm gently without boiling.

Broccoli Sharp Cheddar Soup with Celery and Nutmeg

How to tell when it is ready

Ladle into bowls and serve hot.

Tips

Melt butter in a large pot.
Add chopped broccoli and stock.
Blend about half the soup until smooth, then return it to the pot.
Stir in milk, nutmeg and turmeric if using.

Troubleshooting

If cheese becomes grainy, lower heat and whisk gently; do not boil.
If soup is too thick, thin with warm stock.

Substitutions

Use vegetable stock.
Use evaporated milk for a richer texture.

Variations

Add a small diced potato for a thicker soup.
Stir in a pinch of chilli flakes.

Serving suggestions

Serve with crusty bread.
Add black pepper on top.
Pair with a green salad.
Offer extra grated cheddar.

Make ahead

Prepare components ahead and store safely. Refrigerate within 2 hours for up to 3 days. Reheat gently without boiling.

Storage

Refrigerate within 2 hours for up to 3 days. Reheat gently without boiling.

Food safety

Refrigerate leftovers promptly and reheat until steaming; avoid leaving dairy soup at room temperature.

Frequently asked questions

Can I freeze broccoli cheddar soup?

It can be frozen, but the dairy may separate slightly. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently while whisking.

How should I store broccoli cheddar soup?

Refrigerate within 2 hours for up to 3 days. Reheat gently without boiling.

Serve with crusty bread. Refrigerate within 2 hours for up to 3 days. Reheat gently without boiling.

About the author

Savva Loginov

Savva Loginov writes about traditional Ukrainian cooking, including regional dishes, heritage baking and the customs behind familiar recipes. His English guides explain each dish’s context alongside clear, practical cooking instructions.

Broccoli Sharp Cheddar Soup with Celery and Nutmeg