There’s something about a bread bowl filled with warm, cheesy soup that feels like pure comfort. Maybe it’s the way the steam rises when you break into the crusty bread, or how every spoonful of soup is followed by a bite of soft, broth-soaked bread. For me, the memory goes back to chilly fall evenings when my family would gather around the table, wrapped in sweaters, with bowls of Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Soup served in fresh bread bowls. It wasn’t just dinner; it was an experience.
This recipe combines two of the most beloved comfort foods: thick, creamy broccoli cheddar soup and freshly baked bread bowls. Together, they create a hearty dish that satisfies on every level. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, a special weekend lunch, or to impress guests, this dish is a showstopper that feels both rustic and indulgent.
What Is Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Soup in Bread Bowls
Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Soup in Bread Bowls is a creamy, cheesy soup loaded with tender broccoli florets and shredded cheddar cheese, served inside a hollowed-out round loaf of bread. The bread not only acts as a bowl but also soaks up the soup, making it part of the meal itself. The combination of the velvety soup with the chewy, golden bread makes this dish both comforting and filling.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- Ultimate comfort food: Creamy, cheesy soup with warm bread—need I say more?
- Beautiful presentation: Bread bowls make it restaurant-worthy at home.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love the cheesy flavor.
- Hearty and filling: One bread bowl is a full meal.
- Perfect for fall and winter: This dish warms you from the inside out.
How Does It Taste?
The flavor is rich, creamy, and deeply savory. The sharp cheddar provides bold cheesiness, while the broccoli adds freshness and texture. The soup itself is velvety, buttery, and comforting, with just a hint of garlic and onion to round out the flavors. And when you dig into the bread bowl, you get a chewy bite of soup-soaked bread that takes this dish to the next level.
Health & Ingredient Benefits
Though this recipe is indulgent, it still has some nutritional perks:
- Broccoli: Packed with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
- Cheddar cheese: Provides protein and calcium.
- Milk and cream: Add richness and a boost of calcium.
- Bread bowls: Whole grain options add fiber.
Enjoyed in moderation, this dish can be a satisfying, nutrient-rich meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Soup:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, shredded or finely diced
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Bread Bowls:
- 4 round bread loaves (sourdough or crusty artisan bread)
- Extra shredded cheddar for garnish
Tools You’ll Need
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Bread knife
- Ladle
- Baking sheet
Optional Substitutions & Additions
- Use white cheddar for a creamier, milder flavor.
- Add cauliflower florets along with broccoli for extra nutrition.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter option.
- Stir in cooked bacon bits for a smoky touch.
- Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
How to Make
- Prepare the Bread Bowls: Slice the tops off bread loaves and hollow out the centers, leaving a thick shell. Reserve the bread pieces for dipping.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened and fragrant.
- Make the Roux: Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, milk, and cream until smooth.
- Cook Vegetables: Add broccoli and carrots. Simmer until tender, about 15 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Reduce heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble: Ladle soup into bread bowls, sprinkle with extra cheese, and serve immediately.
What to Serve With
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette for balance.
- Garlic breadsticks for dipping.
- A chilled glass of apple cider or sparkling water.
- For dessert, pair with apple pie or pumpkin bars for the ultimate fall meal.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting.
- Hollow bread bowls carefully—too thin and they’ll leak.
- Don’t let soup boil after adding cheese; it can separate.
- Warm bread bowls in the oven before filling for extra crispness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using pre-shredded cheese: It doesn’t melt as well due to anti-caking agents.
- Overcooking broccoli: It should be tender but not mushy.
- Making bowls too thin: They’ll collapse under the soup.
- Adding cheese at high heat: Always lower the heat before stirring it in.
How to Store & Reheat
- Store soup separately from bread bowls in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat.
- Do not freeze soup with cheese—it can separate. Freeze only the base before adding cheese if needed.
- Bread bowls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in paper bags for 1–2 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What type of bread works best?
Sourdough and artisan bread loaves are sturdy and hold up best.
Can I prepare the soup ahead of time?
Yes, make the soup in advance and reheat gently before serving in fresh bread bowls.
Can I thicken the soup without flour?
Yes, use cornstarch slurry or simply reduce by simmering longer.
Nutritional Info (approximate per serving, including bread bowl)
- Calories: 580
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 5g
- Net Carbs: 43g
- Sodium: 780mg
Conclusion
Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Soup in Bread Bowls is the definition of comfort food. It combines a creamy, cheesy soup with the warm, rustic charm of edible bread bowls, creating a meal that feels special every time. Perfect for cozy fall evenings, family dinners, or entertaining guests, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser you’ll come back to again and again.
So grab some fresh bread loaves, a pile of cheddar, and some broccoli florets, and let this hearty, cheesy soup bring warmth and joy to your table.
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Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Bread Bowls: Cozy Comfort in Every Bite
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A creamy, cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Soup served in crusty bread bowls for the ultimate comfort food experience perfect for cozy fall and winter meals.
Ingredients
Soup:
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 tbsp all-purpose flour
4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
2 medium carrots, shredded or finely diced
3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
½ tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Bread Bowls:
4 round bread loaves (sourdough or artisan bread)
Extra shredded cheddar for garnish
Instructions
1. Slice tops off bread loaves and hollow out centers, leaving thick shells. Reserve insides for dipping.
2. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until soft.
3. Stir in flour; cook 1–2 minutes. Slowly whisk in broth, milk, and cream until smooth.
4. Add broccoli and carrots; simmer 15 minutes until tender.
5. Reduce heat; stir in cheddar until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Ladle soup into bread bowls, garnish with cheddar, and serve.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese for smooth melting.
Warm bread bowls in the oven before filling for best texture.
Store soup separately from bread bowls.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Keywords: broccoli cheddar soup bread bowl, cheesy broccoli soup, Panera-style soup, creamy broccoli cheddar bread bowl
