I’m so excited to share this creamy gluten-free broccoli cheddar soup with you today. There’s something magical about a velvety cheese broth hugging tender broccoli florets that just speaks to my soul on chilly days. No flour needed here—just pure, comforting goodness that comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re avoiding gluten by necessity or choice, this soup doesn’t compromise on that rich, indulgent texture we all crave. But what makes this version stand out from all those other recipes you might have tried?
Why You’ll Love this Creamy Gluten-Free Broccoli Cheddar Soup
You’re going to fall head over heels for this creamy broccoli cheddar soup that happens to be completely gluten-free. It’s rich, velvety, and loaded with tender broccoli florets swimming in a cheese-forward broth. The combination of sharp cheddar and nutty asiago creates depth you won’t find in restaurant versions.
No flour needed for thickening—the cream cheese does all the heavy lifting. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for chilly evenings when comfort food cravings hit. Can soup be both indulgent and wholesome? This one certainly is.
What Ingredients are in Creamy Gluten-Free Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Here’s everything you need to create this luscious, cheesy bowl of comfort food that won’t trigger gluten sensitivities.
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 6 cups chopped broccoli
- 1 cup shredded carrot
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 2 cups half & half
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 ounces shredded asiago cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
The beauty of this ingredient list is its simplicity—notice there’s no flour or other gluten-containing thickeners, as the cream cheese and cheese blend create all the velvety texture we crave in a good soup.
How to Make this Creamy Gluten-Free Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Creating this velvety soup is surprisingly simple, and the results are absolutely worth the minimal effort. Start by melting 4 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat, then add your diced small yellow onion. Let these two ingredients work their magic together, sautéing until the onion becomes soft and takes on a lovely golden hue—about 5 minutes. This step builds the foundation of flavor that makes this soup so irresistible.
Next, pour in 2 cups of chicken or vegetable stock (vegetable stock works perfectly for a vegetarian version), and add 6 cups of chopped broccoli and 1 cup of shredded carrot. Season with 1 teaspoon each of salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then bring everything to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the veggies become tender enough to easily pierce with a fork. The kitchen will start smelling heavenly at this point—that moment when you know something good is coming.
The final transformation happens when you stir in 2 cups of half & half and 4 ounces of softened cream cheese until everything is smooth. This is where the soup gets its incredible creaminess without any gluten-containing thickeners. For an ultra-smooth consistency, you could use a premium stand mixer to blend the ingredients thoroughly. Then comes the most satisfying part: adding 8 ounces of shredded cheddar and 4 ounces of shredded asiago cheese, stirring continuously until all those gorgeous cheese strands melt into the soup. A little tip from someone who’s been known to create cheese clumps: keep that spoon moving constantly when adding the cheese for the smoothest possible texture. Let the soup cool slightly before serving—though I sometimes find this the hardest part of the recipe when that amazing aroma is filling my kitchen.
What to Serve with Creamy Gluten-Free Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Now that our soup is ready and waiting in all its cheesy glory, let’s talk about perfect pairings. I can’t think of anything better than a crusty gluten-free baguette for dipping into those velvety cheese swirls. Not a bread fan? Try simple gluten-free crackers or a crisp side salad with vinaigrette.
For heartier appetites, grilled cheese sandwiches made with gluten-free bread transform this soup into a complete meal. Can you imagine that melty sandwich dunked into the creamy soup? Divine. Roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or cauliflower make wonderful sides too.
Leftovers and Storage for this Creamy Gluten-Free Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Three days is typically how long this delicious broccoli cheddar soup will last in your refrigerator, stored in an airtight container. I recommend letting it cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation from making it watery.
When you’re ready to reheat, do it slowly over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. The cheese can separate if heated too quickly, and nobody wants a grainy soup, right?
For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight before reheating for best results.
Creamy Gluten-Free Broccoli Cheddar Soup Substitutions and Variations
While storing this soup is straightforward, adapting the recipe to suit your dietary needs or pantry contents offers even more flexibility. I’m all about making recipes work for you, not the other way around.
Need it dairy-free? Swap in coconut milk for half & half, and nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. Vegan butter works beautifully too.
Don’t have asiago? Parmesan or gruyere step in nicely. Want it spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
For a heartier version, toss in some diced potatoes or white beans. They’ll thicken the soup naturally while adding extra nutrients.
Final Thoughts
Every great soup deserves its moment to shine, and this gluten-free broccoli cheddar recipe truly delivers on both comfort and flavor. I can’t get enough of how the creamy texture pairs with the vibrant broccoli and sharp cheeses, creating something that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
What makes this soup special? Maybe it’s the three-cheese blend, or perhaps the perfect balance of seasonings. Whatever your reason for trying it, I’m confident it’ll become a regular in your meal rotation.
Warm, satisfying, and naturally gluten-free—sometimes the simplest foods bring the most joy. If you’re looking for another creative way to enjoy broccoli, try making Parmesan Broccoli Crisps by smashing tender florets and baking them with cheese until golden.