Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Bread Bowl Recipe

Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Bread Bowl is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish that combines the savory goodness of cheddar cheese with tender broccoli, served in an edible bread bowl for a fun and hearty presentation.

This recipe transforms a classic soup into a complete meal, perfect for chilly days, lunch, or a cozy dinner. The creamy, cheesy soup pairs wonderfully with the soft interior of the bread bowl, creating a warm, satisfying experience. Easy to prepare yet visually impressive, it’s a recipe that brings comfort and elegance together in one bowl.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the ultimate comfort food. The smooth, cheesy soup clings perfectly to tender broccoli, while the bread bowl adds a rustic, interactive touch. Every spoonful is creamy, flavorful, and filling.

It’s both fun to serve and satisfying to eat, making it ideal for family meals or casual entertaining. Plus, it’s customizable — you can add spices, extra veggies, or even protein to suit your taste.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it elevates a classic comfort soup into something special. Serving it in a bread bowl makes it fun, appealing, and completely edible.

The creamy cheddar soup is rich yet well-balanced with broccoli, offering both flavor and nutrition. It’s a recipe that’s guaranteed to impress guests, delight kids, and satisfy cravings for something warm, cheesy, and indulgent.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4–6
• Calories: ~500 kcal per serving (including bread bowl)

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: American / Comfort Food
• Course: Main Course / Soup

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups half-and-half or whole milk
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

For the Bread Bowls:

• 4 small round bread loaves (sourdough works best)

Optional Toppings:

• Extra shredded cheddar
• Chopped chives or parsley
• Crumbled bacon

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat; sauté onions and garlic until soft.
2. Stir in flour to create a roux; cook 1–2 minutes.
3. Gradually whisk in half-and-half and broth; bring to a simmer.
4. Add broccoli, salt, pepper, and nutmeg; cook until broccoli is tender.
5. Reduce heat and stir in shredded cheddar until melted and smooth.
6. Hollow out bread loaves and ladle soup into bread bowls.
7. Garnish with optional toppings and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Bowls

• Cut the top off each bread loaf.
• Hollow out the interior, leaving a 1-inch wall to hold the soup.
• Set aside while you prepare the soup.

Step 2: Make the Soup Base

• In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
• Add finely chopped onion; sauté 3–4 minutes until translucent.
• Add minced garlic; sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Make a Roux

• Sprinkle flour over the onion and garlic mixture.
• Stir continuously for 1–2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.

Step 4: Add Liquid and Broccoli

• Gradually whisk in half-and-half and broth until smooth.
• Add broccoli florets, salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg.
• Simmer 10–15 minutes until broccoli is tender.

Step 5: Add Cheese

• Reduce heat to low.
• Stir in shredded cheddar, a handful at a time, until melted and smooth.
• Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 6: Assemble in Bread Bowls

• Place bread bowls on serving plates.
• Ladle hot soup into each hollowed bread loaf.
• Garnish with extra cheddar, chives, or bacon if desired.

How to Serve

• Serve immediately while soup is hot and bread is fresh.
• Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Perfect for cozy dinners, lunch, or casual entertaining.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use sharp cheddar for bold, rich flavor.
• For a smoother soup, blend with an immersion blender before adding cheese.
• Toast the bread bowls lightly in the oven for extra sturdiness.
• Reserve some cheddar to sprinkle on top for presentation.

Variations

• Broccoli Cheddar with Chicken: Add cooked diced chicken for a heartier meal.
• Vegan Version: Use dairy-free milk, vegan butter, and vegan cheese.
• Spicy Broccoli Cheddar: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Mixed Vegetable Soup: Add carrots, cauliflower, or peas for more veggie variety.
• Crusty Bread Bowls: Use whole wheat or multigrain loaves for added texture.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerate: Soup can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days (do not store in bread bowl).
• Freeze: Soup freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw in refrigerator and reheat gently.
• Bread Bowls: Best served fresh; bread will become soggy if stored filled.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large saucepan or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Whisk for roux
• Knife for hollowing bread bowls

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Bread Bowl is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy soup with tender broccoli served in an edible, rustic bread bowl. It’s a fun, satisfying, and elegant way to enjoy a classic soup, perfect for family dinners, lunch, or cozy nights in. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, it’s a recipe that pleases both kids and adults alike.