If you’ve ever savored a warm bowl of McAlister’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup at the deli and wished you could recreate that velvety, cheese-laden magic at home, you’re in the right place.
This copycat McAlister’s broccoli cheddar soup delivers the same restaurant-quality richness with tender broccoli florets, sharp cheddar cheese, and a silky cream base that’ll have your family asking for seconds.
Whether you’re craving comfort food on a chilly evening or looking to impress guests with broccoli cheddar soup McAlister’s style, this homemade version is easier than you think and tastes even better than the original.
What Does broccoli cheddar soup by McAlister’s Taste Like?
This McAlister’s cheddar broccoli soup recipe offers a luxurious, creamy texture with bold cheddar flavor that coats your palate beautifully. The broccoli adds earthy freshness and slight nuttiness, while grated carrots contribute natural sweetness.
Each spoonful balances rich, cheesy indulgence with vegetable brightness. The soup has a velvety consistency-thick enough to cling to your spoon but smooth enough to sip comfortably.
Subtle hints of garlic and onion create savory depth, while the half-and-half provides that signature restaurant-style creaminess. It’s comfort food at its finest: warming, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful without being heavy.
McAlister’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Soup Base:
- 4 tablespoons butter (½ stick)
- ½ medium onion, chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika or ground nutmeg (optional)
For the Vegetables and Cream:
- 3 cups broccoli florets (or 1 large head, cut into small pieces)
- 1 large carrot, grated, julienned, or finely chopped
- 2 cups half-and-half (or milk, light cream, or heavy cream)
- 8 oz block sharp cheddar cheese, grated (or 2 cups pre-shredded)
Essential Kitchen Utensils
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Box grater or food processor
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle for serving
Preparation and Cooking Time
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 35 minutes | 6 servings |
Copycat McAlister’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Step 1: Create the Aromatic Base
Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Once the butter begins to foam, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes softened and turns light golden. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Step 2: Build the Roux
Sprinkle 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the butter mixture and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes. This creates a roux that will thicken your McAlister’s broccoli cheddar soup beautifully. Keep whisking until the flour begins to turn golden in color and develops a slightly nutty aroma.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Vegetables
Pour in the 2 cups of chicken or vegetable stock while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add the broccoli florets, grated carrots, kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika (or nutmeg if using). Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the soup simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the broccoli and carrots are cooked through and tender when pierced with a fork. The broccoli should be vibrant green and easily mashable.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in the 2 cups of half-and-half, followed by the grated cheddar cheese. Continue stirring gently as the cheese melts into the soup, creating that signature creamy texture. Simmer for another minute, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Adjust and Serve
Taste your copycat McAlister’s broccoli cheddar soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Ladle into bowls and serve immediately with toasted crusty bread or in bread bowls for an authentic deli experience.
Customization and Pairing Ideas for Serving
1. Protein-Packed Version: Add diced rotisserie chicken, crispy bacon bits, or cooked Italian sausage to transform this McAlister’s cheddar broccoli soup recipe into a heartier main course. The smoky bacon complements the cheddar cheese exceptionally well.
2. Extra Veggie Boost: Incorporate diced celery, cauliflower florets, or chopped kale for additional nutrients and texture. These vegetables blend seamlessly with the broccoli while adding their own unique flavors to the soup.
3. Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy heat. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of regular cheddar for a spicier variation.
4. Bread Bowl Presentation: Hollow out sourdough boules and fill them with your broccoli cheddar soup McAlister’s style for an impressive, Instagram-worthy presentation that’s perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.
5. Loaded Toppings Bar: Set up a topping station with shredded extra-sharp cheddar, crispy croutons, crumbled bacon, fresh chives, sour cream, and oyster crackers. Let guests customize their bowls to their liking.
6. Lighter Alternative: Substitute the half-and-half with unsweetened almond milk or cashew cream, and use reduced-fat cheddar for a lighter version that still maintains good flavor. Greek yogurt can also add creaminess with extra protein.
7. Perfect Pairings: Serve alongside a Green Beans with vinaigrette, grilled cheese sandwiches made with sourdough, or McAlister’s-style club sandwiches. The combination of soup and sandwich creates a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal at home.
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
1. Fresh Grate Your Cheese: Always use block cheddar and grate it yourself rather than buying pre-shredded cheese. Pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting, resulting in a grainy texture in your McAlister’s broccoli cheddar soup. Freshly grated cheese melts seamlessly into silky perfection.
2. Control Your Heat: When adding the cheese and cream, reduce the heat to low and avoid boiling. High temperatures can cause the dairy to separate or become grainy. Gentle simmering ensures a velvety, cohesive soup texture that rivals the restaurant original.
3. Size Matters for Broccoli: Cut your broccoli florets into small, bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch) for even cooking and easy eating. Uniform sizing ensures everything cooks at the same rate, preventing some pieces from being mushy while others remain crunchy.
4. Don’t Skip the Roux: Cooking the flour in butter for the full 1-2 minutes is crucial for eliminating the raw flour taste and achieving proper thickening. This step creates the foundation for your copycat McAlister’s broccoli cheddar soup texture. The golden color indicates you’ve cooked it enough.
5. Stock Quality Counts: Use low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock so you can control the salt level in your soup. Homemade stock adds even more depth, but quality store-bought versions work beautifully. The stock provides the savory backbone that makes this soup so satisfying.
6. Texture Preference Options: For a smoother soup similar to McAlister’s, use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup after the vegetables are cooked but before adding cream and cheese. Leave some chunks for texture variation, or blend completely for ultra-smooth consistency.
7. Make-Ahead Magic: This McAlister’s cheddar broccoli soup recipe actually tastes better the next day as flavors meld together overnight. Prepare it in advance, but wait to add the cheese until reheating to prevent separation. Store the base separately and finish with fresh cheese for optimal texture.
Storage and Reheating Guidance
Store leftover broccoli cheddar soup McAlister’s style 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 stock if needed to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving on high as it can cause separation.
McAlister’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Once the butter begins to foam, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes softened and turns light golden. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Sprinkle 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the butter mixture and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes. This creates a roux that will thicken your McAlister’s broccoli cheddar soup beautifully. Keep whisking until the flour begins to turn golden in color and develops a slightly nutty aroma.
- Pour in the 2 cups of chicken or vegetable stock while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add the broccoli florets, grated carrots, kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika (or nutmeg if using). Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the soup simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the broccoli and carrots are cooked through and tender when pierced with a fork. The broccoli should be vibrant green and easily mashable.
- Stir in the 2 cups of half-and-half, followed by the grated cheddar cheese. Continue stirring gently as the cheese melts into the soup, creating that signature creamy texture. Simmer for another minute, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
- Taste your copycat McAlister’s broccoli cheddar soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Ladle into bowls and serve immediately with toasted crusty bread or in bread bowls for an authentic deli experience.
Video
Notes
Common Queries and FAQs
Below, we’ve answered the most common questions our community has about this recipe to help you cook with confidence.
Q: Can I freeze McAlister’s broccoli cheddar soup?
A: While you can freeze this soup for up to 2 months, dairy-based soups sometimes separate when thawed. For best results, freeze the soup base before adding the cream and cheese, then stir in fresh dairy when reheating.
Q: Why is my soup grainy instead of smooth?
A: Graininess typically occurs from using pre-shredded cheese (which contains anti-caking agents) or heating the soup too quickly after adding cheese. Use freshly grated cheese and add it on low heat for silky results.
Q: Can I make this copycat McAlister’s broccoli cheddar soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Sauté the onions, garlic, and flour on the stovetop first, then transfer everything except the cream and cheese to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours, then stir in dairy during the last 15 minutes.
Q: What’s the best cheese for authentic flavor?
A: Sharp cheddar cheese provides the closest match to McAlister’s distinctive flavor. You can also use a combination of sharp and extra-sharp for more depth, or add a bit of smoked cheddar for complexity.
Q: How can I make this soup thicker?
A: For a thicker consistency, increase the flour to 5-6 tablespoons, use less stock, or mash some of the cooked broccoli against the pot sides. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water).
Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Simply substitute vegetable stock for chicken stock, and you’ll have a completely vegetarian McAlister’s broccoli cheddar soup that’s just as delicious and creamy as the original.
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Yes, frozen broccoli works well and is convenient. Use about 3 cups of frozen florets (no need to thaw) and add them directly to the soup. They may cook slightly faster than fresh, so check for tenderness around the 12-minute mark.
This copycat McAlister’s broccoli cheddar soup brings restaurant-quality comfort straight to your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
The combination of tender broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and creamy base creates a bowl of pure satisfaction that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving guests on a cozy evening, this McAlister’s cheddar broccoli soup recipe delivers every time.
Give it a try and discover why this beloved deli favorite is so easy to recreate at home!
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This looks delicious
Thanks Carm