This creamy broccoli soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with bright green broccoli and a touch of cream, it’s smooth and delicious, perfect for chilly days.
I love serving this soup with a crusty bread on the side; it makes the dipping extra fun! Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, you can enjoy it anytime you need a cozy meal. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is the star of this soup. You can use frozen broccoli too if fresh isn’t available. Just thaw and add it directly into the soup.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, shallots or leeks can work as nice alternatives.
Butter: Butter adds richness, but olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute is perfect for a lighter or dairy-free option.
Milk/Cream: Whole milk gives a nice texture; heavy cream makes it extra rich. For a lighter choice, go for half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds flavor. If you want to make it vegan, skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
How Do I Get the Soup Smooth and Creamy?
Making smooth, creamy soup is all about the blending! If you’re using an immersion blender, it’s easy – just move it around in the pot until everything is smooth.
- If using a traditional blender, let the soup cool slightly first. Blend in batches to avoid any hot splashes.
- Always start the blender on a low speed and gradually increase to avoid accidents.
After blending, return the soup to the pot and gently heat it again with the cream to ensure it’s warm but not boiling. Enjoy your velvety soup!
How to Make Cream of Broccoli Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Croutons
- Small broccoli florets
- Additional shredded cheddar cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy broccoli soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 40 minutes to have this delicious dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, throw in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
2. Make the Roux:
Next, stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Keep stirring constantly to avoid burning and to cook out the raw flour taste. This will help thicken your soup.
3. Add the Broth:
Slowly whisk in the broth, making sure there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook until it thickens slightly, which should take about 5 minutes.
4. Cook the Broccoli:
Now, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Cover it up and simmer until the broccoli is very tender, about 12-15 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
5. Blend the Soup:
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy right in the pot. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until smooth.
6. Stir in Dairy:
Return the soup to the pot if you used a blender. Stir in the milk or cream and shredded cheddar cheese (if you’re using it). Heat gently without boiling to warm it up and melt the cheese.
7. Season and Serve:
Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve your soup hot and garnish with small broccoli florets, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, and croutons for a delightful crunch!
There you have it! Enjoy your comforting, creamy, and delicious bowl of cream of broccoli soup! 🍲✨
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just thaw it before adding it to the soup, or add it directly to the pot and cook a few extra minutes until tender.
What Can I Substitute for the Milk or Cream?
If you want to lighten the soup or make it dairy-free, you can use almond milk, oat milk, or another non-dairy milk. Just choose a variety that has a neutral flavor for the best results!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Soup?
Yes, feel free to add other vegetables! Carrots, celery, or even potatoes can enhance the flavor and texture. Just be sure to cook them until they’re tender before blending.
