Craving the iconic, velvety mcalisters cheddar broccoli soup from your favorite deli but want to enjoy it at home? This copycat mcalisters cheddar broccoli soup recipe brings that beloved restaurant flavor straight to your kitchen! Rich, creamy, and loaded with tender broccoli florets and sharp cheddar cheese, this mcalister’s broccoli cheddar soup captures every comforting spoonful of the original.
Whether you’re searching for “cheddar broccoli soup near me” or simply want a warm, satisfying meal, this homemade version delivers all the cheesy goodness without leaving your house.
Perfect for cozy evenings, meal prep, or feeding a hungry family, this broccoli cheddar soup mcalisters recipe is about to become your new comfort food staple!
What is McAlister’s Cheddar Broccoli Soup and How Does It Taste?
McAlister’s broccoli cheddar soup is a signature menu item from McAlister’s Deli, renowned for its ultra-creamy texture and bold cheese flavor. This mcalister’s deli broccoli cheddar soup features tender broccoli florets swimming in a velvety, cheese-forward broth made with real cheddar and a perfectly balanced roux base.
The taste is luxuriously rich and comforting-each spoonful delivers sharp, tangy cheddar cheese combined with the mild, slightly sweet earthiness of fresh broccoli. The soup has a silky-smooth consistency with just the right amount of vegetable chunks for texture. Subtle hints of garlic, nutmeg, and paprika add depth and warmth, while shredded carrots contribute a touch of natural sweetness.
This mcallister broccoli cheese soup is indulgent yet satisfying, coating your palate with creamy, cheesy goodness that tastes like a warm hug in bowl form-no wonder fans constantly seek out this copycat mcalister’s broccoli cheddar soup recipe!
McAlisters Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 24 oz (about 680g) fresh broccoli, washed and chopped into bite-sized florets
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ small white onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup shredded carrots (matchstick or finely shredded)
- 2 cups half and half
- 3 cups freshly grated sharp or medium cheddar cheese
Optional for Serving:
- Sourdough bread, French bread, or crusty bread
Kitchen Utensils Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Whisk
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Box grater or food processor (for grating cheese)
- Ladle for serving
Preparation and Cooking Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6-8 bowls
Copycat McAlisters Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Wash your fresh broccoli thoroughly under cold running water. Using a sharp knife, cut the broccoli into smaller, bite-sized florets-aim for pieces that will fit comfortably on a spoon. You can discard the tough, woody stems or peel and chop them if you prefer to use the entire vegetable. Set your prepared broccoli aside while you start the soup base for your mcalisters cheddar broccoli soup recipe.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and allow it to melt completely until it begins to bubble slightly. Add your finely chopped onion to the melted butter. Sauté for approximately 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes softened, translucent, and fragrant. This creates the aromatic foundation for your mcalister’s broccoli cheddar soup.
Step 3: Add the Garlic
Stir in the 2 cloves of minced garlic. Cook for another minute, stirring frequently to ensure the garlic doesn’t brown or burn. You want the garlic to become fragrant and release its flavor into the butter and onions. This step adds essential depth to your copycat mcalister’s broccoli cheddar soup recipe.
Step 4: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour evenly over the butter, onion, and garlic mixture. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or whisk for 1-2 minutes until everything combines into a thick, smooth paste called a roux. Make sure no dry flour pockets remain. The roux should be golden and smell slightly nutty-this is the thickening agent that gives your broccoli cheddar soup mcalister’s its signature creamy texture.
Step 5: Add the Chicken Broth
Gradually pour in the 2 cups of chicken broth while whisking continuously and vigorously. This prevents lumps from forming as the flour incorporates into the liquid. Keep stirring until the flour is completely dissolved and the mixture begins to thicken slightly into a smooth sauce. The consistency should resemble a light gravy at this stage of your mcalister’s deli broccoli cheddar soup recipe.
Step 6: Season and Add Vegetables
Stir in your seasonings: 1 tablespoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon paprika, and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg. Mix thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly throughout the base. Add the 1 cup of shredded carrots and all of your chopped broccoli florets. Stir everything together until the vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the soup base.
Step 7: Simmer Until Tender
Reduce the heat to low or medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The broccoli should become fork-tender but still maintain its shape and vibrant green color-avoid overcooking, which can make the broccoli mushy and dull. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld beautifully in your mcallister broccoli cheese soup.
Step 8: Add Cream and Cheese
Pour in the 2 cups of half and half, stirring gently to combine with the vegetable mixture. The soup will become lighter in color and noticeably creamier. Now comes the best part-add the 3 cups of freshly grated cheddar cheese in small handfuls, stirring constantly after each addition. Continue stirring until each batch of cheese is completely melted before adding more. This gradual method ensures a smooth, lump-free consistency. Keep the heat low during this step to prevent the cheese from separating or becoming grainy-this is crucial for achieving that restaurant-quality texture in your copycat mcalisters cheddar broccoli soup.
Step 9: Finish and Serve
Once all the cheese is fully melted and incorporated, creating a silky, homogeneous soup, turn off the heat immediately. Taste your mcalister’s broccoli cheese soup recipe and adjust seasoning if needed, though the 1 tablespoon of salt is typically sufficient. Ladle the hot, creamy soup into bowls and serve immediately with crusty bread on the side for dipping. Enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!
Customization and Pairing Ideas for Serving
1. Classic Bread Bowl Presentation
Serve your mcalisters cheddar broccoli soup in a hollowed-out sourdough bread bowl for the ultimate comfort food experience. The crusty exterior holds the hot soup perfectly, while the soft interior can be torn off and dipped into the creamy broccoli cheddar goodness. This presentation transforms a simple soup into an impressive, restaurant-style meal that’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself.
2. Protein-Packed Version
Add cooked, diced chicken breast or rotisserie chicken to your broccoli cheddar soup mcalisters to create a more substantial, protein-rich meal. Simply stir in 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken during the final stage after adding the cheese. This transforms the soup from a side dish into a complete, filling dinner that will satisfy even the heartiest appetites.
3. Extra Veggie Boost
Enhance the nutritional value and texture of your mcalister’s deli broccoli cheddar soup by adding additional vegetables like cauliflower florets, diced celery, or chopped red bell peppers. Add these during the simmering stage along with the broccoli. The cauliflower blends seamlessly with the broccoli, while celery adds a pleasant crunch and peppers contribute a subtle sweetness and color.
4. Smoky Bacon Topping
Take your copycat mcalister’s broccoli cheese soup to the next level by topping each bowl with crispy, crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of extra sharp cheddar. The smoky, salty bacon provides a delightful textural contrast to the creamy soup, while adding an irresistible savory element. Garnish with fresh chives or green onions for a pop of color and mild onion flavor.
5. Lighter Version Alternative
Create a lighter version of this mcallister broccoli cheese soup recipe by substituting whole milk for the half and half and reducing the cheese to 2 cups. You can also use low-fat cheddar or a combination of cheddar and reduced-fat cream cheese for tang and creaminess with fewer calories. While not quite as indulgent, this version still delivers satisfying flavor with a less heavy feel.
6. Grilled Cheese Sandwich Pairing
Pair your broccoli cheddar soup mcalisters recipe with a classic grilled cheese sandwich made with the same sharp cheddar you used in the soup. The combination of hot, melted cheese sandwich and creamy soup is an iconic comfort food duo. Try adding sliced tomatoes or caramelized onions to your grilled cheese for extra flavor complexity.
7. Spicy Kick Variation
For those who enjoy heat, transform your mcalister’s cheddar broccoli soup recipe by adding a diced jalapeño pepper when sautéing the onions, or stir in ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper with the other seasonings. You can also top individual bowls with hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of sriracha. The spicy kick beautifully contrasts with the rich, creamy cheese base, creating an exciting flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more.
Essential Tips for Perfect Cheddar Broccoli Soup
1. Always Use Freshly Grated Cheese
This is the most important tip for achieving restaurant-quality mcalisters cheddar broccoli soup. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents (like cellulose or potato starch) that prevent smooth melting and can make your soup grainy or separated. Freshly grated cheese from a block melts beautifully into a silky, homogeneous texture. Take the extra few minutes to grate your own cheddar-your taste buds will thank you!
2. Control Your Heat When Adding Cheese
Never let your broccoli cheddar soup mcalister’s boil after adding the cheese. High heat causes the proteins in cheese to tighten and separate from the fat, resulting in a grainy, oily texture instead of smooth creaminess. Keep the heat on low, add cheese gradually in small handfuls, and stir constantly until each addition is fully melted. Patience during this step is the secret to that velvety, restaurant-quality consistency.
3. Don’t Skip the Roux
The butter and flour roux is essential for proper thickness and prevents your mcalister’s broccoli cheddar soup recipe from being too thin or watery. Cook the roux for the full 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste-it should smell slightly nutty. When adding the broth, whisk vigorously to prevent lumps. A well-made roux creates the perfect base that holds all that cheese in suspension.
4. Cut Broccoli Uniformly
Chop your broccoli into evenly-sized, bite-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking in your copycat mcalisters cheddar broccoli soup recipe. Pieces that are too large won’t cook through in 15 minutes, while tiny pieces can become mushy. Aim for florets about 1-1.5 inches in size. Don’t waste the stems-peel away the tough outer layer and chop the tender interior into small pieces for added nutrition and less waste.
5. Season in Layers
While the recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of salt, remember that cheddar cheese is naturally salty. Start with ¾ tablespoon, then taste your mcallister broccoli cheese soup after the cheese is added before adding more. The flavor intensifies as it sits, so slightly under-seasoning during cooking allows you to adjust perfectly at the end. Add freshly cracked black pepper right before serving for the most vibrant peppery flavor.
6. Choose the Right Broccoli Texture
For the authentic mcalister’s deli broccoli cheddar soup texture, you want tender but not mushy broccoli. It should be easily pierced with a fork but still hold its shape. Check your broccoli at the 12-minute mark during simmering-if it’s already tender, don’t cook the full 15 minutes. Overcooked broccoli loses its vibrant color, becomes mushy, and can make your soup look unappetizing and gray.
7. Use Quality Broth for Depth
While chicken broth is traditional, the quality of your broth significantly impacts the final flavor of your broccoli cheddar soup mcalisters recipe. Use low-sodium broth so you can control the salt level, and consider using homemade stock if available. For vegetarian version, substitute with vegetable broth. The broth should taste good on its own-if it’s bland or overly salty, it will affect your entire soup. A rich, flavorful broth creates depth that makes your soup taste complex and restaurant-worthy.
Storage and Reheating Guidance
Store leftover mcalisters cheddar broccoli soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving at high power-use 50% power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, to prevent cheese separation.
McAlisters Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe
Craving the iconic, velvety mcalisters cheddar broccoli soup from your favorite deli but want to enjoy it at home? This copycat mcalisters cheddar broccoli soup recipe brings that beloved restaurant flavor straight to your kitchen! Rich, creamy, and loaded with tender broccoli florets and sharp cheddar cheese, this mcalister’s broccoli cheddar soup captures every comforting spoonful of the original.
Ingredients
- 24 oz (about 680g) fresh broccoli, washed and chopped into bite-sized florets
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ small white onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup shredded carrots (matchstick or finely shredded)
- 2 cups half and half
- 3 cups freshly grated sharp or medium cheddar cheese
- Sourdough bread, French bread, or crusty bread
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Wash your fresh broccoli thoroughly under cold running water. Using a sharp knife, cut the broccoli into smaller, bite-sized florets-aim for pieces that will fit comfortably on a spoon. You can discard the tough, woody stems or peel and chop them if you prefer to use the entire vegetable. Set your prepared broccoli aside while you start the soup base for your mcalisters cheddar broccoli soup recipe.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and allow it to melt completely until it begins to bubble slightly. Add your finely chopped onion to the melted butter. Sauté for approximately 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes softened, translucent, and fragrant. This creates the aromatic foundation for your mcalister’s broccoli cheddar soup.
Step 3: Add the Garlic
Stir in the 2 cloves of minced garlic. Cook for another minute, stirring frequently to ensure the garlic doesn’t brown or burn. You want the garlic to become fragrant and release its flavor into the butter and onions. This step adds essential depth to your copycat mcalister’s broccoli cheddar soup recipe.
Step 4: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour evenly over the butter, onion, and garlic mixture. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or whisk for 1-2 minutes until everything combines into a thick, smooth paste called a roux. Make sure no dry flour pockets remain. The roux should be golden and smell slightly nutty-this is the thickening agent that gives your broccoli cheddar soup mcalister’s its signature creamy texture.
Step 5: Add the Chicken Broth
Gradually pour in the 2 cups of chicken broth while whisking continuously and vigorously. This prevents lumps from forming as the flour incorporates into the liquid. Keep stirring until the flour is completely dissolved and the mixture begins to thicken slightly into a smooth sauce. The consistency should resemble a light gravy at this stage of your mcalister’s deli broccoli cheddar soup recipe.
Step 6: Season and Add Vegetables
Stir in your seasonings: 1 tablespoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon paprika, and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg. Mix thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly throughout the base. Add the 1 cup of shredded carrots and all of your chopped broccoli florets. Stir everything together until the vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the soup base.
Step 7: Simmer Until Tender
Reduce the heat to low or medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The broccoli should become fork-tender but still maintain its shape and vibrant green color-avoid overcooking, which can make the broccoli mushy and dull. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld beautifully in your mcallister broccoli cheese soup.
Step 8: Add Cream and Cheese
Pour in the 2 cups of half and half, stirring gently to combine with the vegetable mixture. The soup will become lighter in color and noticeably creamier. Now comes the best part-add the 3 cups of freshly grated cheddar cheese in small handfuls, stirring constantly after each addition. Continue stirring until each batch of cheese is completely melted before adding more. This gradual method ensures a smooth, lump-free consistency. Keep the heat low during this step to prevent the cheese from separating or becoming grainy-this is crucial for achieving that restaurant-quality texture in your copycat mcalisters cheddar broccoli soup.
Step 9: Finish and Serve
Once all the cheese is fully melted and incorporated, creating a silky, homogeneous soup, turn off the heat immediately. Taste your mcalister’s broccoli cheese soup recipe and adjust seasoning if needed, though the 1 tablespoon of salt is typically sufficient. Ladle the hot, creamy soup into bowls and serve immediately with crusty bread on the side for dipping. Enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!
Notes
Store leftover mcalisters cheddar broccoli soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving at high power-use 50% power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, to prevent cheese separation.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
6Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 300
Common Queries and FAQs
When you give this McAlisters Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe a try, you might have a few questions. Don’t worry-we’ve rounded up answers to the most common ones to help you out.
Q: Can I freeze this mcalisters cheddar broccoli soup recipe?
A: While you technically can freeze this soup for up to 2 months, dairy-based soups with cheese don’t freeze perfectly. The cheese and cream can separate upon thawing, resulting in a grainy texture. If you do freeze it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat very gently on the stovetop, whisking constantly. You may need to add a splash of fresh cream and some additional grated cheese to restore the smooth texture.
Q: Can I make this copycat mcalister’s broccoli cheddar soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Sauté the onions, garlic, and make the roux on the stovetop first, then transfer to your slow cooker with the broth, seasonings, broccoli, and carrots. Cook on low for 3-4 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the half and half and cheese, allowing them to melt slowly in the residual heat rather than cooking them the entire time.
Q: What’s the best cheese to use for mcalister’s broccoli cheese soup recipe?
A: Sharp or extra-sharp cheddar provides the best flavor for this broccoli cheddar soup mcalisters recipe. The sharper the cheese, the more pronounced the cheesy flavor. Avoid mild cheddar, which can taste bland. Some people enjoy mixing 2 cups sharp cheddar with 1 cup Gruyère or smoked gouda for extra complexity and depth.
Q: My soup is too thick-how do I fix it?
A: Simply thin your mcalister’s deli broccoli cheddar soup recipe by adding more chicken broth, half and half, or whole milk in ¼ cup increments while stirring over low heat. The soup will thicken as it cools, so it’s better to err on the slightly thinner side when it’s hot on the stove.
Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Simply substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth to make this mcallister broccoli cheese soup completely vegetarian. The rest of the ingredients are already vegetarian-friendly. Make sure your cheese doesn’t contain animal rennet if you’re strictly vegetarian-many cheddar cheeses use microbial or vegetable rennet instead.
Q: Why is my broccoli cheddar soup grainy?
A: Graininess in copycat mcalisters cheddar broccoli soup typically comes from two issues: using pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents, or cooking at too high a temperature after adding the cheese. Always use freshly grated cheese and keep the heat low once the dairy and cheese are added. Never let the soup boil after the cheese goes in.
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Yes, frozen broccoli works well for this mcalisters cheddar broccoli soup recipe. Use about 20 oz of frozen broccoli florets-no need to thaw them first. Add them directly to the simmering soup, but you may need to cook for a few extra minutes since they start frozen. Frozen broccoli is already blanched, so it cooks quickly.
Q: How can I make this soup thicker or thinner?
A: To thicken your broccoli cheddar soup mcalister’s recipe, make a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir it in, then simmer for 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, add more cheese. To thin it, gradually stir in additional broth or half and half until you reach your desired consistency.
This mcalisters cheddar broccoli soup recipe brings the beloved taste of McAlister’s Deli straight to your home kitchen with incredible authenticity and comfort. Rich, creamy, and loaded with sharp cheddar cheese and tender broccoli, this copycat mcalister’s broccoli cheddar soup delivers all the cozy, satisfying flavors you crave without the restaurant price tag.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, warming up on a chilly evening, or simply craving that iconic mcalister’s deli broccoli cheddar soup, this homemade version is easier than you think and tastes absolutely phenomenal. So next time you’re searching for “cheddar broccoli soup near me,” skip the drive and make this restaurant-quality broccoli cheddar soup at home-your family will be asking for seconds!
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