Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Printable)

Tender broccoli in a rich cheddar cream base, ready in minutes.

# Ingredient List:

→ Vegetables

01 - 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
02 - 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
03 - 1 small onion, diced
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Base

05 - 3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
06 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Dairy & Cheese

07 - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
08 - 1 cup whole milk
09 - 1/2 cup heavy cream

→ Spices & Seasoning

10 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
11 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
12 - Salt and pepper, to taste

→ Thickener

13 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

# Steps:

01 - Set the Instant Pot to Sauté. Add butter. Once melted, add onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
02 - Sprinkle in flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute to form a roux.
03 - Gradually add the vegetable broth, whisking well to avoid lumps.
04 - Add in broccoli florets and grated carrot. Season with paprika, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
05 - Seal the lid. Set to Manual (High Pressure) for 5 minutes.
06 - Perform a quick release. Open the lid and stir.
07 - Using an immersion blender, blend the soup to your preferred consistency (either completely smooth or slightly chunky).
08 - Set Instant Pot to Sauté (Low). Stir in milk and cream. Gradually add shredded cheddar, stirring until melted and smooth.
09 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheddar or fresh herbs if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The cheese melts into silkiness without any frantic whisking or separating
  • It comes together faster than delivery would arrive, plus your kitchen will smell incredible
02 -
  • Never add cheese while the soup is still on high pressure, or it will separate and turn grainy
  • An immersion blender makes it easy to control the texture right in the pot
03 -
  • Grate your own cheese instead of buying pre shredded, which contains anti caking agents that prevent smooth melting
  • Let the soup sit for five minutes off the heat before serving, as this allows the flavors to marry together