Cheesy Vegetable Soup Recipe
If you’re craving the kind of warm comfort that only a really great bowl of soup can bring, you have to try this Cheesy Vegetable Soup Recipe! It’s filled to the brim with tender veggies, wrapped up in a creamy, cheddar-rich broth, and absolutely bursting with flavor. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or you want to impress guests with minimal fuss, this is one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts about this Cheesy Vegetable Soup Recipe is that it takes everyday ingredients and turns them into something extraordinary. Each component adds its personality — color, crunch, and, of course, cheesiness — working together to create a vibrant, creamy masterpiece in your bowl.
- Butter: Adds a rich, savory flavor base, helping the veggies taste extra luscious as they sauté.
- Olive Oil: Keeps things from sticking and brings a subtle fruitiness.
- Onion: Offers gentle sweetness and depth to the broth.
- Garlic: Gives that irresistible aromatic kick every good soup needs.
- Carrots: Bring natural sweetness and gorgeous color.
- Celery: Provides a lovely vibrant crunch and earthy aroma.
- Zucchini: Softens beautifully and disappears into the creamy broth.
- Broccoli Florets: Add pops of green and hearty texture — they also hold the cheese like little flavor sponges!
- Potato: Makes the soup filling and helps add a rich creaminess once softened.
- Vegetable Broth: The backbone of flavor — opt for a good quality broth for best results.
- Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
- Black Pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and depth.
- Dried Thyme: Gives a subtle herbal note that pairs so well with cheese.
- Paprika: Adds a hint of smokiness and color.
- All-Purpose Flour: This is your thickener, helping to give the soup its luscious, creamy texture.
- Milk: Rounds out the soup and combines with cheese for that ultra-creamy finish.
- Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The star of the show! Use a good sharp cheddar for the biggest flavor punch.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty backbone to make the cheesy flavor sing.
How to Make Cheesy Vegetable Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Root Veggies
Begin by grabbing your favorite large soup pot or Dutch oven. Over medium heat, melt the butter and olive oil together until they sizzle gently, then toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. This first step is all about building a sweet, fragrant foundation for the Cheesy Vegetable Soup Recipe. Cook these veggies for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring now and then, until they’re starting to soften and smell irresistible.
Step 2: Add More Veggies
Stir in the diced zucchini, broccoli florets, and potato. Each adds its own color and personality — the zucchini melts into the broth, the broccoli soaks up flavor, and the potato starts to make the soup satisfying and creamy. Let everything mingle in the pot for a minute or two, so the flavors can start getting to know each other.
Step 3: Simmer with Broth and Seasonings
Next, pour in the vegetable broth, and sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and paprika. Give it a good stir, crank up the heat to bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes. While it’s bubbling away, the vegetables get delightfully tender and your kitchen starts to smell incredible. Taste a little bit of potato — when it’s just fork-tender, you’re ready for the next step.
Step 4: Thicken the Soup
In a small bowl, whisk the flour into the milk until completely smooth with no lumps at all. Slowly pour this mixture into the hot soup while stirring, which will help it combine seamlessly. Let it simmer for 4 to 5 more minutes, stirring frequently. The soup will start to turn into that creamy, velvety base we all love in a Cheesy Vegetable Soup Recipe.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish
Lower the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan. Keep stirring patiently as the cheeses melt into the soup, transforming it into a gorgeous, silky, cheese-laden dream. Give the soup a quick taste and adjust the salt or pepper as you like. Now, you’re ready to serve up the ultimate bowl of comfort!
How to Serve Cheesy Vegetable Soup Recipe

Garnishes
Dress up your bowl with your favorite garnishes to take this Cheesy Vegetable Soup Recipe to the next level. Think extra shredded cheese, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, a dash of paprika, or even some crisp croutons for crunch. If you’re feeling a little extra, a swirl of cream or a handful of sautéed mushrooms on top can make every spoonful special.
Side Dishes
A hearty soup like this loves good company! Try serving Cheesy Vegetable Soup with warm, crusty bread or a buttery baguette for dipping. If you want to add a fresh bite, a simple green salad with tangy vinaigrette is amazing alongside. And yes, grilled cheese dippers or cheesy garlic bread are absolutely allowed and encouraged for the ultimate cheesy combo.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not make the meal memorable? Ladle soup into mini bread bowls for a dinner party, or serve in mismatched mugs for cozy, family-style suppers. For a fun twist, top with popcorn for a whimsical crunch, or float blanched broccoli leaves as a “lily pad” garnish. However you serve it, this Cheesy Vegetable Soup Recipe brings smiles every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Vegetable Soup Recipe keeps beautifully. Once cooled, transfer to airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors get even better as they settle in, making leftovers something to look forward to!
Freezing
Thinking ahead? To freeze, let your soup cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of space for expansion. Because it’s creamy and cheesy, the consistency may change slightly after freezing, but a gentle reheat can usually bring it back to its original glory. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to make sure the cheese melts smoothly again. If the soup seems too thick, add a splash of milk or broth until you reach the perfect creamy consistency. Try not to bring it to a full boil, which can cause the cheese to separate.
FAQs
Can I use different vegetables in this Cheesy Vegetable Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! This soup is incredibly flexible, so feel free to toss in your favorite veggies or simply use what you have on hand. Cauliflower, peas, spinach, or bell peppers work beautifully. You can even use a bag of frozen mixed vegetables in a pinch.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by swapping the all-purpose flour for your preferred gluten-free flour blend or even cornstarch. Just mix well with the milk to avoid lumps and follow the recipe as usual.
What type of cheese melts best in this soup?
Sharp cheddar is a classic because it melts smoothly and gives that signature cheesy flavor, but feel free to experiment with gouda, fontina, or even a mix! Grate your cheese fresh for best melting results, as pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
Can I blend the soup for a smoother texture?
Definitely! If you prefer a creamy, velvety soup, use an immersion blender right in the pot, or carefully transfer in batches to a blender. You can blend it completely smooth or leave a few chunky pieces for texture. It’s totally up to you and your mood.
Is this Cheesy Vegetable Soup Recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely! It reheats well, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping lunches or dinners. Store in individual containers, and don’t forget a little extra shredded cheese on the side for sprinkling later!
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food, let this Cheesy Vegetable Soup Recipe be your go-to. It delivers creamy, cheesy goodness and a rainbow of veggies in every spoonful. It’s so easy, soul-satisfying, and always a hit at the table. Grab your pot and let the cozy cooking (and eating!) begin!
Print
Cheesy Vegetable Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the comforting goodness of this Cheesy Vegetable Soup, a rich and creamy blend of vegetables in a flavorful cheddar and Parmesan cheese base. This vegetarian soup is perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil. Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
- Add Remaining Vegetables and Broth: Stir in zucchini, broccoli, potato, broth, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Simmer until veggies are tender.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: Whisk flour into milk until smooth. Slowly add to the soup and cook until thickened.
- Melt Cheese: Reduce heat, stir in cheddar and Parmesan until melted.
- Serve: Adjust seasoning if needed and serve warm.
Notes
- Feel free to use your favorite vegetables or frozen mix.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of cream.
- Soup can be blended for a smoother texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg