Dinner

Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup Recipe

ByHarper Ellington January 16, 2026January 16, 2026

Introduction

This Smoked Gouda Broccoli Soup is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for a cozy meal. The smoky cheese paired with tender broccoli and carrots creates a rich and flavorful experience that’s both satisfying and easy to make.

A white bowl filled with creamy broccoli soup sits on a wooden board over a white marbled surface. The soup has visible small bright green broccoli pieces mixed throughout a light beige creamy base with hints of orange from carrot bits. On top, there is a neat pile of golden brown croutons sprinkled with small green herb leaves placed slightly off-center. Behind the bowl, there is a small white bowl filled with more croutons, and a white cloth with green stripes is laid out partially folded. A shiny silver spoon rests on the marbled surface near the bottom left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

¼ cup unsalted butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup all-purpose flour
16 ounces broth (vegetable or chicken)
16 ounces whole milk
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon pepper
1 large head of broccoli, chopped into small florets
1 large carrot, grated
8 ounces smoked gouda, freshly grated

Instructions

Step 1: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onions and cook until they begin to brown and turn translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Stir in the flour to create a paste and cook for 1 minute.
Step 2: Slowly whisk in the broth, milk, salt, paprika, and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Add the chopped broccoli and grated carrot, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender to your liking.
Step 4: Remove the soup from heat and gradually stir in the shredded smoked gouda. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth.
Step 5: Serve the soup warm, optionally topped with croutons for added crunch.

Tips & Variations

For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend part or all of the soup before adding the cheese.
Substitute smoked gouda with sharp cheddar for a different but equally delicious flavor.
Add a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the creaminess and depth of the soup.
Use low-fat milk or half-and-half if you prefer a lighter version, but it may affect the richness.

Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cheese from separating. If the soup becomes too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it before reheating.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with creamy broccoli soup that has visible green broccoli florets, small orange carrot pieces, and a light beige creamy broth. On the top of the soup are golden brown croutons sprinkled with chopped green herbs. The bowl sits on a wooden board placed on a white marbled surface. To the upper left, there is a small silver bowl filled with more golden croutons. A silver spoon is at the bottom left corner of the image, and a white cloth with green stripes is placed near the top right of the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with olive oil, use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and replace smoked gouda with a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit it altogether.

Can I freeze smoked gouda broccoli soup?

Freezing is possible, but the texture may change due to the cheese and milk. If freezing, cool the soup completely, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.