Few soups deliver the cozy, nostalgic comfort of broccoli cheddar soup, and when made in the Instant Pot, this classic becomes faster, richer, and more foolproof than ever. Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect balance of creamy texture, bold cheddar flavor, and tender broccoli, all achieved in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.

This recipe is designed for busy home cooks who want restaurant-quality soup without hovering over the stove. The pressure cooker gently softens the broccoli while building deep flavor from onions, garlic, and broth. A simple roux creates body, while sharp cheddar melts into a silky finish that coats every spoonful.

Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner, meal-prepping lunches, or craving something warm on a chilly evening, this soup checks every box. It’s family-friendly, customizable, and endlessly comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Fast & Efficient: Ready in about 25 minutes total
Ultra Creamy: No gritty texture or broken cheese
One-Pot Meal: Easy cleanup, no extra pans
Customizable: Make it thicker, lighter, or extra cheesy
Perfect Comfort Food: Cozy, filling, and satisfying

Unlike stovetop versions that require constant stirring, the Instant Pot handles most of the work. The result is a smooth, rich soup with tender broccoli and bold cheddar flavor that tastes like it simmered all day.

Ingredients

4 cups fresh broccoli florets (bite-sized)
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
1 cup whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Melt the butter, then add diced onion. Cook 2–3 minutes until softened.
Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sprinkle in flour and stir continuously for 1 minute to form a roux.
Slowly pour in vegetable broth while whisking to prevent lumps.
Add broccoli florets, salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
Secure the lid, set valve to sealing, and pressure cook on High for 5 minutes.
Perform a quick release.
Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some texture.
Switch to Sauté (Low). Stir in milk and cream.
Gradually add shredded cheddar, stirring until melted and smooth.
Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot.

Pro Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect texture
Don’t boil after adding cheese: Gentle heat keeps the soup smooth
Blend to preference: Fully blend for silky soup or leave chunks for texture
Use sharp cheddar: Stronger flavor means better soup

Variations to Try

Lighter Version:
Use half-and-half instead of cream and reduce cheese to 1½ cups.

Extra Cheesy:
Add an additional ½ cup cheddar or mix in white cheddar.

Protein Boost:
Stir in cooked shredded chicken or crispy bacon.

Vegetarian-Friendly:
Use vegetable broth and serve with crusty bread or salad.

What to Serve with Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Crusty sourdough bread
Garlic toast
Grilled cheese sandwiches
Simple green salad
Roasted vegetables

This soup also pairs beautifully with a crisp apple salad or warm dinner rolls.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store up to 4 days in an airtight container
Freezer: Freeze without cheese added, then reheat and add cheese later
Reheat gently: Use low heat to prevent separation

Fun Food Fact

Broccoli cheddar soup became popular in American cafés during the 1980s as a hearty vegetarian option. Today, it’s one of the most beloved comfort soups in the U.S., especially during fall and winter months.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Creamy, rich, and endlessly comforting, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself to a cozy meal, this soup proves that homemade comfort food can be quick, simple, and incredibly satisfying.