If you’re craving a comforting bowl of creamy, smoky goodness, this Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe will become your new favorite go-to. Imagine tender broccoli and sweet carrots mingling in a luscious broth, enriched by the irresistible depth of smoky gouda cheese melting into every spoonful. This soup brings the perfect balance of fresh vegetables and rich, velvety texture, making it a heartwarming meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make. Whether for a cozy night in or impressing guests with minimal fuss, this recipe is pure kitchen magic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Several clear glass bowls and measuring cups are arranged on a white marbled surface, each holding different ingredients for cooking. The largest bowl on the right holds many small pieces of bright green broccoli. Below it, a medium bowl is filled with a heap of shredded yellow smoked gouda cheese. A small metal bowl near the broccoli contains different seasonings in three parts: white salt, black pepper, and a reddish spice. Above them, a tiny metal bowl has finely chopped garlic. To the left, a bowl has a pile of white chopped onion. Next to it is a small bowl with a stick of yellow butter and another bowl with white flour. There is a large clear measuring cup with pale yellow chicken broth and in front of it, a smaller measuring cup holds white milk. A bowl with shredded orange carrot is near the bottom left corner. The layout is neat and all items are clearly visible, with the white marbled surface providing a clean background photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe is in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a starring role in building layers of flavor and that irresistible creamy texture you’ll love.

¼ cup unsalted butter: Adds a rich, silky base for sautéing the aromatics and rounding out the soup.
1 medium onion, diced: Provides a sweet and savory foundation when softened.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds that classic garlic warmth without overpowering.
¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour: Essential for thickening this velvety soup to the perfect consistency.
16 ounces broth (vegetable or chicken): Brings depth and savory flavor; chicken broth will deliver extra richness.
16 ounces whole milk: Creates a creamy mouthfeel while balancing the flavors.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming.
½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a hint of smoky warmth complementing the smoked gouda.
¼ teaspoon pepper: A touch of spice to lift the dish beautifully.
1 large head of broccoli, chopped into small florets: The bright green star vegetable packed with nutrients and texture.
1 large carrot, grated: Offers natural sweetness and subtle color contrast.
8 ounces (226 g) smoked gouda, freshly grated: The crown jewel—melts smoothly for that unmistakable smoky creaminess.

How to Make Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by melting the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the diced onion. Cook the onions patiently until they turn translucent and just start to brown, usually about 4 minutes. This step builds a rich base with sweet, caramelized notes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Next, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the softened onions and garlic, stirring constantly to combine it into a smooth paste. This roux is your thickening agent and needs a minute or so of cooking to get rid of any raw flour taste. You’ll notice the mixture will become slightly bubbly as it cooks.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the whole milk slowly while whisking constantly to keep the mixture smooth. Then season the base with salt, paprika, and pepper. These spices complement the smoky profile that the cheese will bring later and keep the flavors balanced.

Step 4: Simmer the Vegetables

Add the chopped broccoli florets and grated carrot into the pot, stirring everything to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes or until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green. This timing keeps the vegetables fresh and full of flavor, never mushy.

Step 5: Melt in the Smoked Gouda

Remove the soup from heat and slowly stir in the finely shredded smoked gouda cheese. Take your time here; gently mixing ensures the cheese melts smoothly without clumping. This final step transforms the soup into a creamy, dreamy bowl of pure comfort with that signature smoky glow.

How to Serve Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe

The image shows a creamy soup being made in a silver pot on a stovetop with a black surface. In the first part, a whisk stirs a smooth, light beige mixture with small black specks. In the second, the pot is covered with a lid held by a woman's hand, revealing a thick soup with green broccoli florets and small orange carrot pieces floating in the creamy beige liquid. In the third, shredded yellow cheese is being poured from a clear bowl into the pot containing the soup. The last shows a close-up of a spoon lifting the soup, highlighting its thick, creamy texture with visible broccoli and carrots in the beige base. The background around the pot is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Serving your smoked gouda broccoli soup with the right garnishes elevates every spoonful. Try topping it with crunchy homemade croutons or a sprinkle of extra shredded smoked gouda for cheese lovers who want to amp up the flavor. A light drizzle of good olive oil or a few crispy bacon bits also add delightful textures and contrast.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with a warm crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. Garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls are cozy companions that soak up every last drop. If you want to keep things light, a crisp apple and walnut salad compliments the smoky richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, serve this soup in individual mini Dutch ovens or rustic bread bowls. This not only keeps the soup warm longer but makes every serving feel like a little event. Swirl in a bit of cream or sprinkle chopped fresh parsley to add a vibrant pop of color and freshness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This soup keeps well for 3 to 4 days, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. Be sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain the creamy texture.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup, but keep in mind that the texture may slightly change due to the milk and cheese content. For best results, freeze in portions in freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat the soup slowly on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure an even temperature. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between. Avoid high heat, as it may cause the cheese to separate or the soup to scorch.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of smoked gouda?

Absolutely! While smoked gouda is perfect for its unique flavor, you can substitute it with other melty cheeses like sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or gruyere. Just keep in mind that each will bring its own character to the soup.

Is it necessary to use fresh shredded cheese?

Freshly shredding the cheese yourself is highly recommended. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can create a grainy texture when melted, which takes away from the smooth creaminess you want in this soup.

Can I make this soup vegan or dairy-free?

To veganize this recipe, swap out the butter for olive oil, use vegetable broth, substitute the milk with a creamy plant-based milk like cashew or oat, and replace the smoked gouda with a vegan cheese that melts well. It won’t have the exact same smoky depth, but it can still be delicious!

What can I add to make the soup more filling?

If you want to turn this soup into a heartier meal, consider stirring in cooked quinoa, barley, or even some cooked diced chicken toward the end. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top adds richness and protein too.

How do I prevent the soup from becoming grainy?

To keep your soup silky smooth, make sure to cook the roux properly and whisk constantly when adding liquids. Also, slowly melt the smoked gouda off the heat and avoid pre-shredded cheese. Gentle reheating and stirring help maintain that creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

This Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe is truly a comforting hug in a bowl and a wonderful way to enjoy fresh vegetables with a smoky cheesy twist. It’s easy enough for a weeknight yet special enough to impress, making it a versatile dish in your kitchen repertoire. I can’t wait for you to try it and share this warm, flavorful soup with the people you love!