Broccoli Cheese Soup Jason’s Deli Recipe

If you’ve ever stepped into Jason’s Deli, there’s a good chance you’ve been tempted by the rich, comforting aroma of their famous Broccoli Cheese Soup. With its velvety texture and indulgent flavor, it’s one of those soups that makes you feel like you’re being wrapped in a cozy blanket. What’s even better is that you don’t have to wait for a trip to the deli to enjoy this delightful dish. Making Jason’s Deli-style Broccoli Cheese Soup at home is totally doable, and in this guide, I’ll show you exactly how.

Whether you’re trying to recreate the magic for yourself or want to impress a crowd, this recipe brings all the creamy goodness, the perfect balance of cheesy richness, and the wholesome bite of broccoli. It’s the kind of soup that fills the kitchen with its comforting scent and warms your soul with every spoonful.

Let’s dive into the specifics of how to bring that Jason’s Deli experience straight into your kitchen!

Broccoli Cheese Soup Jason’s Deli Recipe

This recipe closely mimics Jason’s Deli’s Broccoli Cheese Soup, a fan favorite that has people coming back for more. It’s indulgent yet simple, hearty yet not overly heavy. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients Needed

• Broccoli (fresh or frozen) – 4 cups of chopped florets (fresh is ideal for texture, but frozen works too).
• Butter – 1/4 cup (unsalted for more control over seasoning).
• Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped (adds depth to the flavor).
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced (a little goes a long way to elevate the taste).
• Flour – 1/4 cup (for thickening the soup base).
• Chicken broth – 3 cups (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version).
• Milk – 2 cups (whole milk gives the creamiest texture, but you can use a lighter milk if you prefer).
• Heavy cream – 1/2 cup (adds the richness and luxurious feel to the soup).
• Cheddar cheese – 2 cups, shredded (sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but mild works too).
• Mozzarella cheese – 1 cup, shredded (adds that gooey, melty texture).
• Salt and pepper – to taste.
• Optional: Red pepper flakes – for a little kick if you like your soup with a bit of spice.

Cooking Instructions

Step-by-Step Process

1. Prep The Broccoli

   • If using fresh broccoli, chop it into bite-sized florets. If you’re using frozen broccoli, make sure it’s thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.

2. Sauté The Aromatics

   • In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking until they’re softened and fragrant (about 5 minutes).

3. Make The Roux

   • Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring continuously for about 1-2 minutes to make a roux. This will help thicken the soup later on.

4. Add The Liquids

   • Slowly whisk in the chicken (or vegetable) broth, followed by the milk and heavy cream. Keep stirring to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth texture.

5. Simmer The Soup

   • Bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup has thickened and is just beginning to coat the back of a spoon.

6. Add The Broccoli

   • Stir in the broccoli, and let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still slightly firm. You don’t want it to turn mushy!

7. Cheese It Up

   • Lower the heat and start adding your shredded cheeses, one handful at a time, stirring well to ensure they melt into the soup smoothly. The cheddar will bring that deep, tangy flavor, and the mozzarella adds the melt-in-your-mouth, cheesy texture we love.

8. Season To Taste

   • Add salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and let the flavors meld for another 5 minutes.

9. Serve & Enjoy

   • Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with extra shredded cheese or a dash of pepper if you like. It’s best enjoyed with a side of crusty bread or even a warm baguette to soak up all that cheesy goodness.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s break down some of the key ingredients and why they’re so essential to this recipe:

• Broccoli: Not only is it the star of the show, but broccoli adds a fresh, slightly bitter note that balances the richness of the cheese. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins and fiber, making this soup feel a little less guilty indulgent.
• Butter: The foundation of the flavor base, butter adds richness and a smooth texture. It’s a classic choice in most creamy soup recipes for that luscious mouthfeel.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides the tangy, zesty flavor that defines the soup’s taste. It’s what gives the soup that unmistakable “cheesy” profile.
• Mozzarella Cheese: While cheddar does the flavor heavy lifting, mozzarella is the secret ingredient that gives the soup its melty, gooey texture. It adds a stringy, comforting bite when you scoop it up.
• Heavy Cream & Milk: The combination of these dairy ingredients creates the rich, velvety texture that makes the soup so comforting. Whole milk keeps the soup creamy but not too thick, while the heavy cream adds that indulgent touch.

Expert Tips

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli retains a better texture and color compared to frozen. If you go the frozen route, just make sure to drain it well.
• Gradual Cheese Addition: Don’t just dump all the cheese in at once! Add it gradually, stirring constantly, to avoid clumps or a greasy texture.
• Adjust Thickness: If your soup is too thick, just add a bit more milk or broth to reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken.
• Let It Rest: Like many soups, this one tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. If you have time, make it ahead of time and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Recipe Variations

• Vegan Version: Swap the dairy for coconut milk and use plant-based cheeses. Vegetable broth can replace the chicken broth. You’ll still get a creamy, comforting result without any animal products.
• Add Some Protein: For a more filling soup, try adding cooked chicken, bacon bits, or even a little sausage. This turns your soup into a full meal.
• Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for some heat. This pairs really well with the creamy base for a balanced kick.
• Roasted Broccoli: For a deeper flavor, roast the broccoli in the oven before adding it to the soup. This caramelizes the edges, creating a more complex flavor profile.

Final Words

Jason’s Deli’s Broccoli Cheese Soup has become a beloved classic, and rightfully so. It’s rich, creamy, comforting, and absolutely delicious. The great thing about making it at home is that you can adjust the flavors to your liking, whether you want it extra cheesy, more or less creamy, or with a spicy kick. Plus, you’re in full control of the ingredients, so it’s easier to customize for dietary preferences or restrictions.

This soup is perfect for a chilly day, a quick lunch, or a cozy dinner with loved ones. It’s one of those recipes that brings everyone together, and you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds (or thirds) without a second thought.