Cozy Broccoli Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

When it comes to comforting soups, few dishes are as satisfying as a creamy broccoli cheddar soup—but what if we take it to the next level? Introducing Broccoli Cheddar Gnocchi Soup: a heartwarming blend of tender potato gnocchi, fresh broccoli florets, and a rich, cheesy broth that’s as cozy as a favorite sweater. This recipe takes everything you love about classic broccoli cheddar soup and makes it even better by adding fluffy gnocchi for extra heartiness. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving a bowl of creamy comfort, this soup will quickly become a go-to favorite.

Broccoli Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is an ultimate comfort dish that delivers warmth and flavor with every spoonful. Imagine wrapping your hands around a warm bowl, feeling the richness of the velvety cheese broth, and enjoying the bursts of texture from the tender broccoli and pillowy gnocchi. This dish is all about indulgence while keeping it simple and wholesome. It’s the perfect marriage between a classic broccoli cheddar soup and the comforting allure of gnocchi, creating an unforgettable meal that will make you feel right at home.

Why You’ll Fall in Love With Broccoli Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

If you’re a fan of broccoli cheddar soup, you’re in for a treat. This version adds a twist with pillowy gnocchi that adds texture, flavor, and a bit of indulgence. The combination of the cheesy, velvety broth with the tender broccoli and gnocchi makes each spoonful so satisfying that you’ll find yourself coming back for more.

The gnocchi makes this soup hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own, but it still retains that comforting feel of a classic soup. Each bite is a delightful mix of creaminess, savory cheese, tender broccoli, and soft gnocchi. Plus, the smoky hint of paprika and the subtle tang of mustard powder take the flavors to new heights, adding depth and complexity that elevate this comforting classic.

It’s a dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to serve to guests. The best part is that it’s ready in under an hour and uses simple ingredients you may already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s versatile—you can add extra veggies or even a protein like shredded chicken to customize it to your tastes. The balance of flavors and the rich, creamy consistency makes this soup a perfect addition to your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Soup

• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and depth of flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps prevent the butter from burning.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a wonderful aromatic base.
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup.
• 4 cups vegetable broth: Forms the base of the soup and adds flavor.
• 2 cups whole milk: Contributes to the creaminess of the soup.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Enhances the richness and velvety texture.
• 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces: Provides texture and nutrition.
• 1 pound potato gnocchi: Adds heartiness and makes the soup more filling.
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Brings the iconic cheesy flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder: Adds subtle tang and complexity.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a hint of smokiness.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances all the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick): Adds a bit of heat.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving: Adds extra cheesy flavor when serving.
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish: Adds freshness and color to the finished dish.

Instructions: How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat along with the olive oil. The combination of butter and oil helps prevent the butter from burning while giving the soup a rich flavor.
2. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes, until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an extra half minute until fragrant.

2: Create the Base

1. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
2. Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Once smooth, add the whole milk and heavy cream. Continue whisking until well combined and the mixture begins to thicken. The base should be rich and creamy, and the aroma will fill your kitchen with warmth.

3: Add the Broccoli and Gnocchi

1. Stir in the chopped broccoli florets and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still bright green. It’s important to keep the broccoli tender-crisp so that it retains its vibrant color and texture.
2. Add the potato gnocchi to the pot and let it cook for another 4-5 minutes, until the gnocchi floats to the surface and is tender. The gnocchi will absorb some of the flavors from the broth, making each bite deliciously satisfying.

4: Add the Cheese and Seasonings

1. Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, one handful at a time, until melted and smooth. This ensures the cheese doesn’t clump and fully incorporates into the broth, resulting in a creamy, luscious texture.
2. Add the mustard powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine and taste to adjust seasoning as needed. The mustard powder and paprika add depth and warmth that perfectly complement the sharp cheddar.

5: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread on the side for dipping—there’s nothing better than soaking up that rich, cheesy broth with a slice of warm bread.
2. Enjoy this rich, comforting soup while it’s warm and creamy! Each spoonful is packed with flavor, and the gnocchi adds a comforting, hearty bite that will leave you fully satisfied.

Chef’s Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli works best in this soup for the perfect texture. However, you can use frozen broccoli if that’s what you have on hand—just add it directly to the broth and cook until tender. Fresh broccoli adds a vibrant green color and a slightly crunchy texture that balances the creaminess of the soup.
• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: For the best texture, be sure not to overcook the broccoli. It should be tender but still have a slight bite to it, adding a wonderful contrast to the creamy broth. Overcooking can cause the broccoli to lose its bright color and turn mushy.
• Slowly Add the Cheese: Adding the shredded cheese gradually helps prevent it from clumping and ensures a smooth, creamy texture. Make sure the heat is on low when adding the cheese to avoid separation. A gentle, even heat will create the creamiest, velvety broth.
• Customize Your Veggies: This soup is highly adaptable. You can add extra veggies like carrots, cauliflower, or even spinach to pack in more nutrition. Feel free to get creative! Adding different vegetables not only makes the soup more nutritious but also adds interesting textures and flavors.
• Gnocchi Tips: If you’re using store-bought gnocchi, it cooks very quickly. Keep an eye on it, as overcooking can make the gnocchi too soft. It need to be tender but still have its shape. For a homemade touch, you can also use fresh gnocchi if you have the time—it makes the dish even more special.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Broccoli Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

1. Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can made this soup ahead of time. However, if you plan to make it in advance, it’s best to add the gnocchi just before serving, as it can become too soft if left in the soup overnight. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat gently on the stovetop. The soup will thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a little extra broth or milk when reheating.

2. Can I Freeze Broccoli Cheddar Gnocchi Soup?

This soup can be frozen, but the texture of the dairy and gnocchi may change slightly upon thawing. If you do freeze it, consider leaving out the gnocchi until you’re ready to serve. Reheat slowly over low heat, stirring often to maintain the creamy consistency. For best results, freeze the soup without the gnocchi, then add freshly cooked gnocchi when serving.

3. Can I Use a Different Cheese?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic for this soup, you can use a combination of cheeses like Gruyère, Colby, or even a bit of smoked Gouda for extra flavor. Just make sure the cheese melts well for the best texture. Mixing cheeses can add a unique depth of flavor and make the soup even more decadent.

4. Is There a Dairy-Free Option?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a vegan alternative, use almond or oat milk in place of dairy milk, and opt for a dairy-free cheddar-style cheese. The flavor will differ slightly, but it will still be creamy and delicious. There are plenty of dairy-free cream alternatives that can achieve a similar velvety texture.

5. How Can I Add Protein to This Soup?

For extra protein, you can add cooked, shredded chicken, diced cooked ham, or even a can of drained chickpeas. Simply stir in the protein when adding the gnocchi to ensure everything is evenly heated. Chickpeas are a great vegetarian option that will add both protein and a nice texture to the soup.

Final Thoughts

Broccoli Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a comforting classic with a twist that will have everyone asking for seconds. The pillowy gnocchi adds a new level of heartiness to this beloved cheesy soup, while the broccoli brings vibrant color and nutrition. It’s a versatile dish that can easily be customized to suit your preferences, whether you’re adding extra veggies or mixing in different cheeses.

Perfect for cozy nights at home or even as a starter for a larger meal, this soup will warm you from the inside out. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to please. Whether you’re cuddled up on the couch with a good movie or sharing it with friends and family, Broccoli Cheddar Gnocchi Soup will always deliver that comforting, satisfying feeling we all crave.

This is more than just a soup—it’s a bowl of comfort, a meal that brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of indulgence to any day. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the rich, creamy flavors of this comforting bowl of goodness!