Ciao! I’m Sam, a Tuscan-born chef now living stateside and the creator behind GoldenGlutenFree.com. The journey to creating this Gluten Free Broccoli Cheddar Soup began on a crisp October day. The leaves were turning golden outside my kitchen window, and all I wanted was a bowl of something creamy, rich, and soothing. I thought back to the first time I tasted broccoli cheddar soup, velvety, cheesy, comforting, but not something I could enjoy anymore once I discovered my gluten sensitivity. Determined to recreate it without compromise, I started testing. I played with textures, swapped flours, and leaned on bold cheeses. The result? This dreamy bowl of soup that’s become one of the most loved recipes on my site.
There’s something incredibly satisfying about making a soup from scratch. The way the scent fills the house, the first bite warming you from the inside out. This version captures everything we love about the classic while being gentle on your digestion. Whether you’re curled up under a blanket, prepping dinner for the family, or craving a nourishing meal on a rainy day, this soup has you covered.
This post will walk you through how to make the best Gluten Free Broccoli Cheddar Soup at home, step by step. I’ll share all my tips, swaps, and storage tricks so you can make it your own.
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Equipment
- large soup pot
- whisk
- immersion blender or countertop blender (optional)
- measuring cups and spoons
- cheese grater
Ingredients
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 medium carrot, shredded
- 3 tbsp gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk or dairy-free milk
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- Optional: gluten-free croutons, extra cheese, chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in the gluten-free flour and stir constantly to form a roux. Cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly bubbling to remove flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Add milk and continue whisking until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in shredded carrot and broccoli florets. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes until broccoli is tender.
- For a smoother soup, blend part or all of the mixture using an immersion blender or by transferring to a countertop blender. Skip this step for a chunky version.
- Lower the heat and stir in cheddar and parmesan cheeses until melted. Add salt, pepper, paprika, and nutmeg to taste.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheese, gluten-free croutons, or chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Nutrition
Ingredients List
To make this soup both creamy and thick without traditional flour, I use gluten-free flour and a blend of cheeses that melt beautifully. Here’s everything you’ll need:
Produce:
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 medium carrot, shredded
Pantry:
- 3 tbsp gluten-free all-purpose flour (like Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1)
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk or your preferred dairy-free milk
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional for depth)
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Cheese:
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
Optional Garnishes:
- Gluten-free croutons
- Extra shredded cheese
- Chopped parsley
For a cozy pairing, try serving this soup with gluten-free dinner rolls or alongside a crisp green salad.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the butter or olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for about 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Flour to Make a Roux
Sprinkle in the gluten-free flour and stir continuously to form a roux. Cook this mixture for 2–3 minutes to remove any flour taste. It should start to bubble slightly.
Step 3: Whisk in Broth and Milk
Slowly pour in the broth while whisking to prevent lumps, then add the milk. Keep whisking gently until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Stir in the shredded carrot and broccoli florets. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
Step 5: Blend (Optional)
If you prefer a smooth soup, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer half the soup to a blender and puree. For a chunkier texture, skip this step.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Season
Turn the heat to low. Stir in the cheddar and parmesan cheeses until fully melted. Add salt, pepper, paprika, and nutmeg to taste.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle into bowls and top with extra cheese or gluten-free croutons. Serve hot.
Tips for Success
Use Freshly Grated Cheese
Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. For the silkiest soup, grate your cheese from the block.
Go Slow When Adding Liquid
Add the broth and milk gradually to prevent lumps. Whisk constantly for a smooth base.
Don’t Boil the Soup After Adding Cheese
Keep the heat low once the cheese goes in. High heat can cause it to separate or turn gritty.
Adjust the Thickness
If you like a thicker soup, simmer it uncovered a few minutes longer. For a thinner consistency, add an extra splash of broth.
Looking for more cheesy comfort? You might enjoy my Cottage Mac and Cheese (Gluten-Free), it’s rich, nostalgic, and super easy.
Variations to Try
Dairy-Free Version
Use plant-based milk like cashew or oat and substitute with a dairy-free cheddar alternative. Add a bit of nutritional yeast for an extra cheesy vibe.
Extra Veggie Boost
Stir in some cauliflower, zucchini, or even chopped spinach for added nutrition. You can sneak in veggies like in this Mac and Cheese with Hidden Veggies.
Add Protein
Toss in shredded chicken or white beans to make it a heartier meal. For meat lovers, try adding cooked turkey bacon or spicy ground chicken.
Try a Bread Bowl (Gluten-Free!)
If you’re feeling ambitious, serve it in a homemade gluten-free bread bowl for that classic café experience.
Make It Spicy
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or stir in diced jalapeños with the onions for a little kick.
Explore more soul-warming options like this Gluten-Free Lasagna Soup that has all the flavor of pasta night in a spoonful.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezer
This soup freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Tips
Warm gently over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or milk if it’s too thick. Avoid microwaving with cheese-heavy soups as it can lead to separation.
Bonus: This soup pairs perfectly with my Gluten-Free Chicken Noodle Soup if you’re planning a cozy soup night menu.
FAQs
1. Is gluten-free flour necessary in this soup?
Yes, it replaces traditional flour to thicken the base while keeping the recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.
2. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely. Just ensure it’s thawed and drained to avoid watering down the soup.
3. What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar gives the soup that rich, tangy flavor. You can also mix in gouda or Monterey jack for variety.
4. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Sauté onions and garlic, then transfer everything (except the cheese) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–5 hours, then stir in cheese before serving.
If you love cozy bowls like this, try my Butternut Squash Soup Shooters, a perfect fall appetizer or light lunch.
Conclusion
There’s no need to miss out on comfort food just because you avoid gluten. This Gluten Free Broccoli Cheddar Soup proves that you can have all the warmth, creaminess, and flavor with none of the gluten. Whether you’re feeding your family, meal prepping for the week, or savoring a solo lunch on a chilly afternoon, this recipe brings big flavor and cozy vibes to your bowl.
And if you’re craving more nourishing comfort, check out other wholesome options like my Roasted Salmon with Broccoli and Quinoa or Easy Gluten-Free Dinner Recipes to keep your meals exciting.