If you’re looking for the very definition of cozy comfort food, you have to try this One Pot Broccoli Cheddar and Dumplings recipe. Imagine pillowy dumplings bobbing generously in a bubbling pot of creamy cheddar, sweet vegetables, and tender broccoli—all made in one pot for maximum flavor with minimum cleanup. It’s rich, savory, cheesy, and somehow both nostalgic and new—all at once. This dish is a go-to for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or anytime you want a bowlful of warmth and happiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of One Pot Broccoli Cheddar and Dumplings lies in its brilliant simplicity. Each ingredient brings something essential—whether it’s a boost of color, a punch of creamy goodness, or a luscious cheesy finish. Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious pot of comfort:
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Starts the flavor foundation with its rich, mellow base.
- Yellow onion (1 small, diced): Adds sweetness and depth that seeps into every bite.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings a welcome punch of aroma and subtle zing.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups, chopped small): The hero of this pot, soaking up flavor and adding color and crunch.
- Carrot (1 medium, grated or finely chopped): For a mellow sweetness and pop of orange.
- Vegetable or chicken broth (4 cups): Infuses the whole dish with savory depth—pick your favorite for the base.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the bright flavors.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds gentle warmth and makes everything pop.
- Paprika (1/4 teaspoon): Lends a subtle smokiness and gorgeous color.
- Thyme (1/4 teaspoon): Earthy and herbal, this brings balance and a homey background note.
- Milk or half-and-half (1 cup): Makes your soup luxuriously creamy.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups): The all-important cheesy melt, ensuring richness and stretch in every spoonful.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup, for dumplings): The backbone of those fluffy dumplings.
- Baking powder (1 1/2 teaspoons, for dumplings): Ensures the perfect rise.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon, for dumplings): Seasons your dumplings from within.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, cold and cubed for dumplings): For crumbly, tender dumplings.
- Milk (1/2 cup, for dumplings): Brings the dough together just so.
How to Make One Pot Broccoli Cheddar and Dumplings
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by melting your butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and let it soften for about 3 to 4 minutes—don’t rush this part; a gentle sauté really draws out their sweetness. Next, toss in the minced garlic and give it a quick stir until fragrant, then add your broccoli and carrot. These veggies just need 2 to 3 minutes to get vibrant and glossy as the base for your One Pot Broccoli Cheddar and Dumplings.
Step 2: Build the Soup
Pour in your broth, then sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme. Give everything a stir, cover, and let it bubble gently for 8 to 10 minutes. Your kitchen will already start to smell incredible! When the broccoli is fork-tender and bright green, you’re perfectly on track for that classic Broccoli Cheddar vibe.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Cheddar Base
Lower the heat and stir in your milk or half-and-half, followed by the sharp cheddar cheese. The cheese should melt slowly into the soup, making it rich and creamy with just the right hint of tang. Keep this mixture at a gentle simmer so the cheese fully incorporates and everything stays smooth—this is what makes One Pot Broccoli Cheddar and Dumplings so irresistible.
Step 4: Mix the Dumpling Dough
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt for the dumplings. Take that cold cubed butter, and, using a fork or pastry cutter, work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs (think pea-sized butter pieces). Stir in the milk just until the dough comes together. Don’t overmix—less is more here for extra-tender dumplings.
Step 5: Steam the Dumplings
Drop heaping tablespoonfuls of dumpling dough directly into the simmering soup, spacing them a bit apart so they have room to puff up. Pop the lid on tightly and turn the heat down low. Resist the temptation to peek! Let them steam undisturbed for 15 minutes. The steam works wonders, turning the dough into fluffy, chewy dumplings that soak up that cheesy broth, making One Pot Broccoli Cheddar and Dumplings truly comforting.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Take the pot off the heat, uncover, and let it rest for a quick 5 minutes. The flavors meld, and the dumplings finish cooking through. Ladle this glorious, thickened soup into bowls and serve piping hot—you’re about to experience the ultimate in home-cooked coziness.
How to Serve One Pot Broccoli Cheddar and Dumplings
Garnishes
Brighten up your bowls with a final flourish! Sprinkle on extra shredded cheddar for more melt, a handful of fresh chopped parsley for color, or even a few thinly sliced chives. A pinch of black pepper or sweet paprika on top looks beautiful, too—each garnish is an invitation to dig in.
Side Dishes
Though One Pot Broccoli Cheddar and Dumplings is plenty hearty on its own, some crusty bread or warm baguette makes it even more special. If you want some contrast, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness. For a heartier meal, serve with roasted potatoes or a platter of sliced apples and pears.
Creative Ways to Present
Try pouring the soup into mini cocottes or oven-safe mugs for a playful, individual presentation. For family-style comfort, serve straight from the pot at the table. You can even top each bowl with a swirl of crème fraîche or a scattering of toasted pumpkin seeds to add something unexpected and delightful to your One Pot Broccoli Cheddar and Dumplings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To store any leftovers, simply ladle your soup and dumplings into an airtight container and refrigerate. It keeps beautifully for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to deepen, making reheated portions just as satisfying, if not more so!
Freezing
While the soup itself freezes well, the dumplings are best enjoyed fresh. If you’d like to freeze for later, it’s a good idea to freeze the cheesy soup base alone, then add fresh dumplings when you reheat. The base will keep in your freezer for up to 2 months—just thaw fully before adding your dumpling dough and simmering again.
Reheating
Warm your One Pot Broccoli Cheddar and Dumplings gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally so the creamy cheese doesn’t split. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up. The dumplings stay soft and pillowy, making even the leftovers a treat.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli saves time and works perfectly in this recipe. Just toss it straight in—no need to thaw—and reduce your simmering time by a minute or two, since frozen broccoli cooks quickly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You sure can! Substitute your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for both the dumplings and any thickening you might need in the soup. Baking powder and cornstarch are naturally gluten-free, so you’re all set there.
How do I add extra protein?
For a protein boost, stir in some cooked, shredded chicken, turkey, or even white beans before adding the dumplings. The result? One Pot Broccoli Cheddar and Dumplings transforms into a stick-to-your-ribs meal fit for any appetite.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Definitely! Use your favorite dairy-free milk (unsweetened oat or almond milk work well) and opt for a vegan cheddar-style cheese. Replace the butter with a plant-based variety, and you’ll have a comforting, plant-powered version that’s just as delicious.
Why can’t I peek while steaming the dumplings?
It’s tempting, but keeping the lid sealed tight traps the steam that cooks the dumplings all the way through. Opening the pot allows heat to escape, which can result in gummy, undercooked dough. Trust the process—the payoff is fluffy, perfect dumplings every time!
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this One Pot Broccoli Cheddar and Dumplings a spot in your dinner rotation. It’s so simple, so delicious, and endlessly adaptable for what you have on hand. There’s just nothing like the warmth of homemade soup, especially when it comes with cheesy dumplings! Grab a big spoon and dig in—you’ll be glad you did.
Print
One Pot Broccoli Cheddar and Dumplings Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One Pot, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a comforting and hearty meal with this One Pot Broccoli Cheddar and Dumplings recipe. Creamy cheddar cheese, tender broccoli, and fluffy dumplings come together in a satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
- 1 medium carrot, grated or finely chopped
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon thyme
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
For the Broccoli Cheddar Soup:
For the Dumplings:
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, melt butter and cook onion until softened. Add garlic, broccoli, and carrot, sauté for a few minutes.
- Simmer Soup: Pour in broth, season, and simmer covered until broccoli is tender. Stir in milk and cheddar until smooth.
- Make Dumplings: Mix flour, baking powder, salt, then cut in butter. Stir in milk and drop spoonfuls into simmering soup.
- Cook Dumplings: Cover and cook for 15 mins. Allow to rest before serving hot.
Notes
- For extra protein, add cooked shredded chicken.
- You can use frozen broccoli, adjusting simmer time.
- Dumplings will be soft and fluffy with a slight chew.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
