If you are craving a deliciously creamy, cheesy treat that’s also packed with wholesome veggies, this Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is going to become your new best friend. Imagine tender broccoli and sweet carrots swimming in a rich, velvety broth, enriched with sharp cheddar that melts perfectly into every spoonful. And the best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot, combining convenience with comfort in a way that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows seven white bowls with different ingredients set on a white marbled surface. The top left bowl contains light brown breadcrumbs with a grainy texture. Next to it on the right is a bowl filled with bright green sliced celery pieces, smooth and fresh. Below the breadcrumbs is a bowl holding shredded orange cheese, soft and fluffy, and beside it to the right is a bowl full of cooked white rice, fluffy and moist. At the bottom left, a large bowl holds chunked green broccoli florets with a rough texture, while to the right of it, there is a bowl with finely chopped white onions, slightly translucent. Above the onion bowl, two peeled garlic cloves sit loose on the surface near them. In front of all bowls, there is a small bowl of white liquid (probably milk) and a small glass filled with an orange liquid (likely juice). photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each bringing its unique character to this comforting soup. From the sweetness of the carrots to the sharp tang of cheddar cheese, every item plays a vital role in balancing flavor, texture, and that beautiful vibrant color.

2 tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics to bring out their flavor.
1 small onion, chopped: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth to the soup’s base.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a fragrant warmth that perfectly complements the veggies.
2 cups broccoli florets, chopped: The star ingredient delivering that fresh, green crunch.
1 cup shredded carrots: Brings natural sweetness and bright color.
3 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Forms the flavorful liquid base; vegetable broth makes it vegetarian-friendly.
1 cup milk: Helps create a creamy texture without overpowering the cheese.
1 cup heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess that makes this soup feel indulgent yet cozy.
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: The soul of the dish with its bold, melty cheesiness.
2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry): Thickens the soup to perfectly cling to every spoonful.
Salt & pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to bring all flavors together.

How to Make Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by setting your Instant Pot to the Sauté mode and melt the butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent. This step builds the flavorful foundation that makes the soup so irresistible.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Broth

Next, toss in the chopped broccoli florets and shredded carrots, then pour in the broth. Lock the lid in place and set the Instant Pot to Manual High Pressure for 5 minutes. This quick cooking perfectly softens the veggies while locking in flavor.

Step 3: Release Pressure and Add Dairy

Carefully quick-release the pressure, then switch the pot back to Sauté mode. Stir in the milk and heavy cream, which will bring the finishing touches of creaminess and richness to this luscious soup.

Step 4: Thicken the Soup

Whisk the cornstarch and water together to create a slurry, then slowly stir it into the hot soup. Let it simmer until the broth thickens beautifully, coating each vegetable piece with a velvety texture.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheese and Season

Gradually fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste buds, and get ready to ladle out some serious comfort.

How to Serve Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with creamy light orange soup with visible small broccoli pieces floating throughout. The soup surface has a smooth texture with a sprinkle of black pepper and some finely chopped herbs on top. A black spoon is placed inside the bowl on the right side, partly submerged in the soup. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface, with a small piece of broccoli and some white shredded cheese scattered nearby. In the background, a white cloth is softly blurred, adding a cozy feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar or finely chopped green onions on top makes for a lovely garnish that adds a fresh burst of flavor and crunch. A pinch of smoked paprika or a few crispy bacon bits can also enhance the visual appeal and taste.

Side Dishes

This soup truly shines when paired with warm crusty bread, buttery garlic toast, or even a crisp side salad. These accompaniments help round out the meal and offer a delightful texture contrast to the creamy soup.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe in hollowed-out sourdough bread bowls, turning your meal into an enticing edible showstopper. Alternatively, layering the soup with a sprinkle of cheese inside a mug can transform it into a cozy, on-the-go treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen when refrigerated, making reheated bowls even more satisfying.

Freezing

This soup freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just keep in mind the texture of the broccoli may soften more after freezing, but the creamy flavor will remain intact.

Reheating

When reheating, warm the soup gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You might want to add a splash of milk to loosen the soup if it’s thickened too much during refrigeration or freezing.

FAQs

Can I make this Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and the soup remains rich, flavorful, and perfect for vegetarians.

What kind of cheddar cheese is best?

Sharp cheddar works best because its tangy flavor balances the creaminess perfectly. Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties, preventing a grainy texture.

Can I substitute the broccoli or carrots?

You can swap broccoli with cauliflower for a milder flavor or add sweet corn for extra sweetness. The carrots provide subtle natural sweetness, but you could reduce the quantity slightly if you prefer a less sweet soup.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

Definitely! Substitute the milk and heavy cream with coconut milk or your favorite plant-based milk. Use dairy-free cheese alternatives to maintain that cheesy flavor.

How can I make the soup thicker?

If you want an even thicker consistency, simply increase the cornstarch slurry slightly and simmer it longer until it reaches your desired thickness.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is a total game-changer for cozy meals on busy days. It brings together comfort, nutrition, and incredible taste with such ease you’ll wonder why you ever settled for anything less. Whether you’re feeding family, entertaining friends, or treating yourself, this soup promises to warm hearts and bellies alike. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a household favorite!

Sara

Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe