Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup

This hearty and creamy broccoli cheese soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending the goodness of fresh vegetables with the rich, cheesy flavor you love. Perfect for cozy dinners or as a starter, it’s a dish that satisfies both your taste buds and your soul.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • Vegetables:
    • 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets (approximately 500 g)
    • 1 onion, finely chopped
    • 1 carrot, chopped (optional)
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Fats and Liquids:
    • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
    • 2 tbsp butter
    • 2–3 cups (500–750 ml) vegetable or chicken broth
  • Dry Ingredients:
    • 2–3 tbsp flour
  • Seasonings:
    • Salt, to taste
    • Pepper, to taste
  • Cheese and Cream:
    • 60 g (2 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese (or your choice of cheese)
    • 1 cup (250 ml) heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)

Directions

  • Prepare the Vegetables:
    • Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
    • Chop the onion finely, peel and chop the carrot (if using), and mince the garlic.
  • Sauté the Onion:
    • Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
    • Add the onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  • Add Butter and Garlic:
    • Stir in the butter.
    • Once melted, add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  • Cook the Carrot (Optional):
    • Add the chopped carrot and cook for another 5 minutes until it begins to soften.
  • Thicken the Soup:
    • Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring to coat.
    • Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
  • Add Broth and Season:
    • Gradually whisk in the broth, ensuring no lumps form.
    • Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  • Cook the Broccoli:
    • Add the broccoli florets to the simmering soup.
    • Cook for 5–7 minutes until tender-crisp or to your desired texture.
  • Add Cream and Cheese:
    • Stir in the heavy cream or milk, mixing well.
    • Add the shredded mozzarella and stir until fully melted and the soup becomes creamy.
  • Serve:
    • Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with extra cheese, croutons, or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
  • Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
  • Top with crispy bacon bits or roasted chickpeas for added texture.

Cooking Tips

  • Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.
  • Blend half of the soup for a creamier consistency while keeping some chunks for texture.
  • Adjust the seasoning after adding the cheese, as it may add saltiness.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Broccoli: Rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.
  • Carrot: Provides beta-carotene and vitamin A for healthy skin and eyes.
  • Cheese and Cream: Add calcium and protein to support bone health.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • Gluten-Free: Replace the flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch for a gluten-free option.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

  • Calories: ~250 kcal
  • Protein: ~8 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~15 g
  • Fat: ~18 g

Storage

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring frequently to avoid curdling.
  • Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare for weeknight dinners.
  • Loaded with wholesome vegetables and creamy cheese.
  • Customizable to suit various dietary preferences.
  • A warm, comforting dish perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion
This creamy broccoli cheese soup is a delightful way to incorporate vegetables into your diet while enjoying rich, cheesy goodness. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family meal or a dish to impress your guests, this soup is a surefire winner. Make it your own with your favorite toppings and enjoy every spoonful!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
    Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just adjust the cooking time slightly.
  2. Can I make this soup vegan?
    Use plant-based cream, vegan cheese, and vegetable broth to make it vegan.
  3. How do I make the soup thicker?
    Add an extra tablespoon of flour or blend a portion of the soup.
  4. Can I add protein?
    Yes, add cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu for additional protein.
  5. Can I freeze this soup?
    Yes, but avoid freezing if using milk as it may separate. Heavy cream freezes better.
  6. What other cheeses can I use?
    Cheddar, Gruyere, or Parmesan are excellent substitutes.
  7. How long does it take to reheat?
    Reheat on medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Can I skip the cream?
    Yes, replace it with additional broth for a lighter soup.
  9. What herbs go well with this soup?
    Thyme, rosemary, or parsley complement the flavors beautifully.
  10. Can I serve this soup cold?
    This soup is best served hot for optimal flavor and texture.