This creamy broccoli soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with fresh broccoli and has a smooth, velvety texture that makes it super comforting.
Honestly, who wouldn’t want to sip on this delicious green goodness? I love to sprinkle a little cheese on top for an extra yummy twist. Perfect for chilly days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is essential for the vibrant color and taste. If it’s not available, frozen broccoli works too—just make sure it’s thawed and drained before using.
Onion: A small yellow onion adds great flavor, but you can substitute with shallots or leeks for a different taste. If you want it milder, use green onions instead!
Garlic: Minced garlic boosts the soup’s aroma and flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it, though I recommend at least a little for added depth.
Half-and-half or Cream: For a lighter version, use whole milk instead of cream. Alternatively, vegan options like coconut milk can be used for a non-dairy twist.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds richness and flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, try Gruyère or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get the Perfect Consistency When Blending Soup?
The key step is blending the soup to your preferred texture. If you want it creamy, an immersion blender works great. If you use a regular blender, fill it only halfway—hot liquids can expand. Blend in batches for safety!
- Start blending at a low speed to avoid splatters, then increase gradually.
- After blending, return the soup to the pot. Stir in the cream or cheese while it’s warm.
- If you want a chunkier texture, blend just half of the soup and mix it back with the unblended portion.
How to Make Cream of Broccoli Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for added richness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Croutons, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy broccoli soup will take about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at roughly 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, which takes about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. This step builds a delicious foundation for your soup!
2. Make the Roux:
Next, stir in the flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly to form a roux. This mixture will help thicken your soup and give it that rich texture we love.
3. Add the Broth:
Gradually whisk in the broth to prevent lumps from forming. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. You’ll notice it thickens a bit during this time!
4. Cook the Broccoli:
Add the fresh broccoli florets to the pot. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender. This will make sure the flavors meld beautifully as the broccoli cooks down.
5. Blend Until Smooth:
Now comes the fun part! Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it’s mostly smooth, but still has some small broccoli pieces for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender; just be cautious with the hot liquid!
6. Add Cream and Cheese:
Stir in the half-and-half or heavy cream, along with the shredded cheddar cheese if you’re using it. Heat the soup gently until it’s warm and the cheese melts, but be sure not to let it boil! This keeps the soup rich and creamy.
7. Season to Taste:
Finally, taste the soup, and add salt, pepper, and ground nutmeg (if using) to your liking. These seasonings will enhance all the wonderful flavors!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with croutons for a delightful crunch. Enjoy your cozy, creamy broccoli soup!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli can be a convenient option. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the soup. This way, it will blend smoothly and maintain great flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Half-and-Half?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, whole milk works well as a substitute for half-and-half. For a dairy-free version, consider using coconut milk or almond milk, though the flavor will differ slightly.
How to Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You might want to add a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Soup?
Yes! Feel free to experiment by adding vegetables like carrots or cauliflower for more flavor and nutrition. Just chop them into small pieces and add them along with the broccoli, adjusting cooking times as needed until they’re tender.
