If you’re craving a cozy, comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It blends tender broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and creamy half and half all into one velvety, flavorful soup that’s ready in no time thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot. This recipe perfectly balances rich cheesy goodness with vibrant veggies, making it an easy go-to for lunch, dinner, or anytime you need a little delicious comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of nine containers with different cooking ingredients placed neatly on a white marbled surface. At the center bottom, there is a white bowl full of fresh green broccoli florets, their texture dense and bumpy. To the left above it, a white bowl holds bright orange shredded cheddar cheese with thin, uneven strips. Above that, a small white dish contains three piles of spices: black pepper, red chili powder, and white salt arranged side by side. On the right side next to the broccoli, a white bowl has shredded carrots, displaying long, thin, orange strands. Below that, a clear glass measuring cup with water shows liquid reflections. At the bottom left, there is a large glass measuring cup filled with dark golden broth that looks smooth. Next to it are small white bowls with chopped white onions, small cubes of pale yellow butter, and minced garlic with a slightly moist texture. On the right side near the center, there is a small white bowl filled with white flour with a powdery texture, and beside it another glass measuring cup holds white heavy cream. Everything is placed carefully and clearly visible for easy identification photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe keeps things refreshingly simple but incredibly tasty. Each ingredient plays an important part: from the fresh chopped broccoli and carrots adding crunch and color, to the sharp cheddar and half and half providing that irresistible creamy texture. Let’s dive into these essentials that transform humble veggies into a luscious bowl of soup.

4 cups broccoli, chopped very small: Tiny pieces cook quickly and blend seamlessly for a smooth texture.
1 ½ cups carrots, shredded or chopped very small: Adds natural sweetness and orange color to brighten the soup.
1 onion, diced: Builds the savory foundation with a subtle depth of flavor.
4 cups broth (3 for thicker soup): Use your favorite vegetable or chicken broth to add rich umami.
4 Tbsp unsalted butter: Adds silkiness and helps soften the garlic and onions.
2-3 garlic cloves, minced: Brings a punch of aromatic warmth that complements the veggies.
½ tsp sea salt: Enhances all the wonderful flavors in the soup.
½ tsp cracked pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
½ tsp paprika: Gives a faint smoky note that really rounds out the flavor profile.
2 cups half and half: Creates the luscious creaminess without being too heavy.
2 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: The star ingredient that melts perfectly into cheesy bliss.
¼ cup corn starch: Used to thicken the soup to that perfect spoon-coating consistency.
¼ cup water: Helps to dissolve the cornstarch smoothly for easy mixing.

How to Make Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables and Base

Start by chopping all your veggies into very small pieces so they cook evenly and blend well in the soup. Toss the broccoli, carrots, and onion into your Instant Pot’s inner pot. Add the broth, unsalted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and cracked pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine all those flavors before sealing the pot.

Step 2: Pressure Cook the Broth and Veggies

Seal your Instant Pot and Set the vent to “sealing.” Choose the pressure cook setting on high (or “manual” if you have the Instant Pot brand) for just 1 minute. Even though it’s such a short time, the pressure build-up ensures the broccoli softens beautifully. When the timer finishes, perform a quick pressure release until all steam is gone.

Step 3: Add Half and Half and Cheese

Open the lid and stir in the half and half and shredded cheddar cheese while the soup is still warm. The heat will melt the cheese into a silky, rich blend. This step is what truly transforms the soup into that classic broccoli cheddar experience.

Step 4: Thicken Your Soup

Mix the corn starch and water in a small bowl until you have a smooth, lump-free slurry. Slowly stir this mixture into your soup. Switch your Instant Pot to the “sauté” setting and stir continuously until your soup thickens to a perfect, creamy consistency. This thickening step is important for getting that restaurant-style velvety texture you’re after.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve

Give your soup a taste and adjust salt, pepper, or any seasonings as you like. Now, your Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

A creamy soup with small pieces of orange carrots and green broccoli florets floating evenly throughout a smooth, light beige base. The soup is thick and ladled with a shiny metal spoon inside a round, stainless steel pot with a black outer rim. The pot sits on a white marbled surface that contrasts softly with the warm colors of the soup. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishing your soup adds texture and an extra pop of flavor. I love topping mine with crunchy croutons, a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits, or a dash of smoked paprika. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley add a beautiful, fresh contrast.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread like a warm baguette or garlic bread for dunking. A simple green salad or a light sandwich can round out your meal, especially if you’re serving this as dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in small bread bowls for an edible container that’s both charming and tasty. You can also drizzle with a little extra melted cheddar cheese on top or a swirl of sour cream for an elevated look and taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover soup in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen beautifully overnight, making it an even better choice for a quick next-day meal.

Freezing

This Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe freezes well, but cheese-based soups can sometimes change texture slightly after thawing. Freeze your soup in portion-sized containers, and try to consume within 2 months for the best taste and consistency.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring regularly to prevent scorching. You may want to add a splash of broth or half and half to bring back the perfect creaminess before serving.

FAQs

Can I use cheddar cheese alternatives in this recipe?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend of cheeses for different flavors and meltability.

Is it necessary to use half and half or can I substitute?

You can substitute with heavy cream for extra richness or whole milk for a lighter version, but half and half strikes a lovely balance of creaminess and lightness.

Can I make this soup vegan or dairy-free?

With some swaps like using vegetable broth, non-dairy milk (like cashew or oat milk), and vegan cheese, you can definitely adapt the recipe to be dairy-free, though it won’t have the exact same creamy cheddar flavor.

How small should I chop the vegetables?

Chopping the broccoli and carrots very finely helps them cook quickly and creates a smooth texture that blends perfectly with the cheese sauce.

What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?

You can make this soup on the stove by sautéing the veggies, simmering in broth until tender, and then adding your cheese and cream—just expect a longer cooking time.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s quick, comforting, and packed with fresh veggie goodness balanced by that indulgent cheesy richness we all crave. Perfect for cozy nights or anytime you want something nutritious and satisfying without any fuss. Grab your Instant Pot and get cooking — your taste buds will thank you!