Name: Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Creamy, Cheesy, and Quick
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped; 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced; 1 medium zucchini, diced (optional); 1 small onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth; 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

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Introduction to Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights, cozy lunches, or family meals that feel indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. This rich and creamy soup combines tender broccoli, sweet carrots, and sharp cheddar cheese into a velvety broth, all made effortlessly in the Instant Pot. Its speed and convenience make it a favorite for home cooks who want restaurant-quality flavor in a fraction of the time.

What makes this soup special is the balance of textures and flavors. The broccoli and carrots add freshness and natural sweetness, while the cheddar cheese brings creaminess and savory depth. Every spoonful feels indulgent yet nourishing, making it perfect for family fresh meals or a satisfying lunch on a chilly day.

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Instant Pot Cheesy Broccoli Soup also stands out for its versatility. You can add zucchini to create Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar and Zucchini Soup, or include other vegetables for a hearty, nutrient-packed variation. The Instant Pot locks in flavors and cooks vegetables to perfection, giving you a smooth, creamy, and vibrant soup without the constant stirring or long simmering times required by traditional stovetop methods.

This recipe of Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is also inspired by beloved favorites, such as the Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Instant Pot version, delivering that same familiar taste with the ease of home cooking. By mastering this soup, you gain a foundation for other Instant Pot Soup Recipes, making weeknight dinners, lunch prep, or family gatherings simple and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe is incredibly quick and convenient. Unlike traditional methods that require hours of simmering, the Instant Pot does the hard work for you, giving you creamy, flavorful soup in under 30 minutes. This makes it perfect for busy families or anyone looking for comfort food without the wait.

Another reason to love this Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is its adaptability. You can easily adjust the vegetables to include zucchini, carrots, or extra broccoli, creating a personalized version that suits your taste. It works as a starter, a light lunch, or a hearty main dish when paired with crusty bread or a side salad. The cheese is fully melted and integrated, giving a rich, velvety texture in every bite.

Finally, this soup is perfect for families seeking healthy yet satisfying meals. Packed with vegetables and made from scratch, it avoids the preservatives and additives found in many store-bought soups. It’s also freezer-friendly, meaning you can make a big batch ahead of time for future meals, making it both practical and delicious.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes (Instant Pot pressure cooking)
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
1 medium zucchini, diced (optional)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Substitution Notes:

Use dairy-free milk and vegan cheese for a plant-based version.
Broth can be vegetable or chicken depending on preference.
Flour can be substituted with cornstarch for gluten-free thickening.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Melt butter, then add onions and garlic. Cook 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Broth

Add broccoli, carrots, zucchini (if using), and broth. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Pressure Cook

Seal the Instant Pot lid and set to high pressure for 5 minutes. Once done, perform a quick release carefully.

Step 4: Blend the Soup

Use an immersion blender to partially or fully puree the soup, depending on desired texture. You can leave some chunks for a chunky broccoli & carrot cheddar soup version.

Step 5: Make the Cheesy Base

In a separate small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually add milk while stirring until smooth. Pour this mixture into the blended soup.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Add Dijon mustard, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust thickness by adding more milk if needed. Serve hot.

How to Serve

Serve Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup in bowls with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar on top for presentation and flavor. Pair it with toasted sourdough, garlic bread, or homemade croutons to make a complete meal.

For a more vibrant presentation, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives. You can also swirl in a spoonful of cream or drizzle olive oil for a gourmet touch.

This soup is excellent as a main dish for family fresh meals. Offer sides like a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or whole-grain bread for a balanced dinner. The leftover soup can also be portioned for easy lunches throughout the week.

Additional Tips

To avoid overcooking, ensure vegetables are cut evenly for uniform cooking.
Use sharp cheddar for full flavor; mild cheddar will create a creamier but less intense taste.
Add a splash of lemon juice at the end to brighten flavors if desired.
For extra richness, stir in a bit of cream cheese before serving.

Recipe Variations

Instant Pot Cheesy Broccoli Soup: Add more cheddar and reduce milk for an extra creamy, rich version.
Broccoli Cheddar and Zucchini Soup: Include zucchini for extra nutrients and subtle sweetness.
Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Instant Pot: Add a pinch of smoked paprika and nutmeg to replicate the restaurant flavor.
Vegetable-Loaded Version: Add cauliflower, green beans, or spinach for a hearty, nutrient-packed family meal.

Freezing and Storage

Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove over low heat.
Add extra milk or broth when reheating if the soup has thickened.

Nutritional Information (per 1 cup serving, approx.)

Calories: 180
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 10g
Sodium: 450mg

Final Words

Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is more than just a meal, it’s a comforting experience that combines the richness of creamy cheddar with the freshness of tender vegetables. It’s a recipe that proves you don’t need hours in the kitchen to create something flavorful, satisfying, and wholesome. Every spoonful delivers a balance of textures and flavors, from the slight crunch of broccoli to the silky, cheesy broth that coats every bite. This soup is perfect for busy weeknights, casual lunches, or even as a starter for a special dinner.

What makes this recipe truly remarkable is its versatility. You can easily modify it to suit your family’s preferences by adding zucchini, carrots, cauliflower, or even cooked proteins. The Instant Pot ensures that the vegetables cook evenly while keeping their vibrant color and flavor intact. For a smoother soup, an immersion blender can create a creamy texture, while leaving some chunks intact adds a hearty, rustic touch. This adaptability makes it ideal for both novice cooks and experienced home chefs.

This soup also embodies convenience and practicality. It’s quick to prepare, easy to store, and freezer-friendly, making it perfect for meal prep or portioned lunches throughout the week. The Instant Pot does the heavy lifting, which frees you to focus on other dishes or simply relax while your soup cooks. The combination of speed, flavor, and nutrition makes it a go-to recipe for anyone seeking comfort food without compromising time or quality.

Finally, Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a recipe that encourages creativity. You can experiment with different cheeses, herbs, or spices, adjusting seasoning to your taste. It’s a dish that brings families together, satisfies cravings, and elevates simple ingredients into a deliciously memorable meal. Once you master this recipe, it becomes a staple in your recipe rotation an easy, versatile, and timeless dish that will be requested again and again.

FAQ’s

Yes, you can simmer the vegetables in a pot on the stove for 20–25 minutes until tender, then follow the blending and cheese steps.

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Reduce cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.

Not as written. Substitute flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.

Yes, use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives for a vegan-friendly version.

Yes, cooked chicken, turkey, or crumbled tofu can be added to make a heartier meal.