This Cream of Broccoli Soup is warm, creamy, and full of delicious broccoli goodness. It’s perfect for those chilly days when you need a cozy bowl of comfort!
I love how easy it is to make this soup! Just blend together fresh broccoli, creamy goodness, and seasonings for a tasty treat. You might find yourself going back for seconds! 🥦❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is the star! You can substitute with frozen florets if fresh isn’t available. Just make sure to adjust cooking time since frozen may cook faster.
Onion: A medium onion provides flavor. If you’re in a pinch, shallots work well, or you can skip them for a milder taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma. If you don’t have fresh, use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder instead.
Broth: Vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian, but chicken broth can add more flavor. Use low-sodium versions to control salt content.
Cream: Heavy cream delivers richness. For lighter options, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the soup won’t be as creamy.
Cheddar Cheese: Adding cheddar brings extra flavor. You can leave it out for a dairy-free option, or use a vegan cheese substitute.
How Do I Get the Best Texture for My Soup?
For a smooth and creamy texture, blending is key. You can use an immersion blender directly in the pot or carefully transfer the mixture to a traditional blender. Here are some tips:
- Blend in batches if using a regular blender, and let the steam escape.
- For a chunkier soup, blend only half, leaving some broccoli pieces intact.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more broth or cream to get your desired thickness.
What Is the Best Way to Season My Soup?
Seasoning can elevate your soup. Start with salt and pepper to taste after blending. If you’re using broth, be cautious with added salt. A sprinkle of dried thyme adds depth, but feel free to try other herbs like parsley or basil!
How to Make Cream of Broccoli Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head of broccoli)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
For Thickening:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For Seasoning:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional for extra flavor)
For Garnish:
- Croutons
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cream of Broccoli Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 40 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy! Perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Aromatics:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until it smells amazing!
2. Making the Roux:
Stir in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This roux will help thicken the soup, so keep an eye on it! You want it to be lightly golden but not burnt.
3. Adding the Broth:
Gradually whisk in the broth, mixing well to avoid any lumps. This creates a nice, smooth base for your soup!
4. Cooking the Broccoli:
Now, toss in the fresh broccoli florets and the dried thyme if you’re using it. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
5. Blending the Soup:
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s beautifully smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches to blend until creamy. Remember to let it cool a bit before blending!
6. Adding Cream and Cheese:
Stir in the heavy cream and grated cheddar cheese, if you’re feeling indulgent! Heat gently without boiling, just until everything is warmed through.
7. Final Seasoning:
Give it a taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. You can add more cream or cheese for extra richness if you’d like!
8. Serving:
Serve hot, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh broccoli florets and crispy croutons for a delightful crunch!
Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of Cream of Broccoli Soup! It’s sure to warm you from the inside out!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes, absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a great option and will save you prep time. Just keep in mind that it may cook faster, so check for tenderness after about 10 minutes of simmering.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
To make the soup vegan, substitute the butter with olive oil, use plant-based cream like coconut cream or cashew cream, and skip the cheese or replace it with vegan cheese. Use vegetable broth as well!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Soup?
Definitely! You can add vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to chop them small and adjust the cooking time as needed!