Cream of Broccoli Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s perfect for cooler weather or whenever you’re craving a hearty meal.
Made with fresh broccoli, aromatic vegetables, and rich cream, this soup is velvety smooth and bursting with flavor.
Whether served as a starter or a main course, it’s sure to warm you up from the inside out.
Follow this simple recipe to make a batch of delicious Cream of Broccoli Soup in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, croutons, chopped chives
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Immersion blender or blender
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Instructions
Prepare the Broccoli:
Wash the broccoli thoroughly and cut it into small florets.
Discard the tough stems.
Saute the Aromatics:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Add the Broccoli:
Add the broccoli florets to the pot, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the broccoli mixture and stir well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
Simmer the Soup:
Gradually pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
Cover and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Blend the Soup:
Once the broccoli is tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
Add the Cream:
Stir in the heavy cream, and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
Serve:
Ladle the Cream of Broccoli Soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, croutons, or chopped chives. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 5g
Health Benefits
Cream of Broccoli Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Broccoli is rich in vitamins C, K, and A, as well as fiber and antioxidants.
Consuming broccoli regularly may support immune health, improve digestion, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Additionally, the addition of cream provides a source of healthy fats and adds richness to the soup.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute frozen broccoli for fresh in this recipe.
Simply thaw the broccoli before adding it to the pot, and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, Cream of Broccoli Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Can I use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream?
While heavy cream provides richness and creaminess to the soup, you can use half-and-half or milk as lighter alternatives.
Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may be slightly different.
How can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
To make this soup vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
For a vegan version, use vegetable broth and substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative, such as coconut milk or cashew cream.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Yes, you can customize this soup by adding other vegetables such as carrots, cauliflower, or spinach.
Simply chop the additional vegetables and add them to the pot along with the broccoli.
Adjust the cooking time as needed until all the vegetables are tender.