Healthy Broccoli Cheese Soup Made from Scratch Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, nourishing dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Healthy Broccoli Cheese Soup Made from Scratch Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with vibrant green broccoli and creamy, melty cheddar cheese, it strikes the perfect balance between wholesome nutrition and indulgent comfort. What makes this soup truly special is how easy it is to make with fresh ingredients, turning simple pantry staples into a velvety, flavorful masterpiece that will brighten even the chilliest days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delicious Healthy Broccoli Cheese Soup Made from Scratch Recipe, you only need a handful of simple ingredients, each one playing a vital role in the taste, texture, and color of the soup. These fresh and wholesome items come together to build a rich, silky soup that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

• 4 cups broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli cut into small pieces adds vibrant color, fiber, and that signature flavor.
• 1 medium onion: Finely chopped onion provides a sweet, aromatic base for the soup.
• 2 cloves garlic: Minced for a subtle kick and mouthwatering depth.
• 4 cups vegetable broth: Low-sodium broth keeps the soup light while infusing it with savory undertones.
• 1.5 cups cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, melts into creamy bliss and adds a rich tang.
• 1 cup milk: Whole or dairy alternative to add creaminess without heaviness.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing, it brings gentle sweetness and helps develop flavors.
• Salt and pepper: To season and balance all the lovely elements perfectly.

How to Make Healthy Broccoli Cheese Soup Made from Scratch Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Broccoli

Start by washing the broccoli thoroughly and trimming it into small florets. Don’t forget those tender stems—they add great texture and flavor, too! Keeping the pieces bite-sized ensures they cook evenly and blend into that perfect creamy base.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, warm up the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté for about five minutes until they turn translucent and smell sweet. This step builds the foundational flavor that will carry through the entire soup, so take your time to get these just right.

Step 3: Add the Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Garlic cooks quickly and can burn easily, so keep an eye on it. This brief sautéing releases its pungent aroma, giving the soup a subtle but essential kick.

Step 4: Cook the Broccoli

Throw in the broccoli florets and chopped stems, stirring well to combine. Let them cook with the aromatics for about three to four minutes. This softens the broccoli just slightly and infuses it with the garlicky-onion goodness, setting the stage for a bright, fresh flavor.

Step 5: Simmer in Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until the broccoli becomes tender. This gentle simmer allows the flavors to meld perfectly while softening the broccoli enough to blend smoothly.

Step 6: Blend Until Smooth

Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until it’s smooth and silky. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a stand blender in batches. This step transforms the ingredients into a velvety, luscious texture that’s simply irresistible.

Step 7: Add Milk for Creaminess

Return the blended soup to low heat and stir in the milk. This adds a gentle creaminess that balances out the sharpness of the cheese and the earthiness of the broccoli for a harmonious flavor.

Step 8: Melt in the Cheese

Gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until it melts smoothly into the soup. The cheese makes the soup rich and indulgent while still maintaining a healthy balance, truly bringing the recipe to life.

Step 9: Season to Taste

Season the soup with salt and pepper to your liking. Feel free to adjust the consistency with a bit more broth or milk if you prefer it thinner. Tasting as you go ensures every spoonful bursts with the perfect seasoning.

Step 10: Serve Hot and Enjoy

Serve the soup steaming hot, garnished as you like. This final touch not only makes it look inviting but adds extra flavor and texture. Now you’re ready to savor every comforting bite of your homemade creation!

How to Serve Healthy Broccoli Cheese Soup Made from Scratch Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar, freshly ground black pepper, or even a hint of smoked paprika can elevate your soup’s presentation and taste. A swirl of olive oil or a handful of toasted breadcrumbs adds texture and a little crunch, making each spoonful special.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty whole-grain bread, garlic toast, or a light green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. For extra heartiness, try it alongside a warm baked potato or a side of roasted veggies to round out your dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

For serving at a dinner party or family gathering, ladle the soup into small cups or bread bowls for individual servings. You can also drizzle a balsamic reduction or a few drops of chili oil on top for a gourmet twist. Layering textures and flavors turns this humble soup into a memorable centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it will keep well for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for quick lunches or easy weeknight dinners.

Freezing

Healthy Broccoli Cheese Soup Made from Scratch Recipe freezes beautifully. Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of headspace. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low to medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. If the soup has thickened too much, simply add a splash of broth or milk to bring back that perfect creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this soup, especially when you’re short on time. Just thaw it before adding, and you may want to reduce the simmering time slightly since frozen broccoli cooks faster.

Is there a dairy-free version of this soup?

Absolutely! Swap the milk for your favorite plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free cheese substitute. The soup will still have that creamy texture and flavorful punch.

How can I make this soup thicker?

To thicken the soup, simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to reduce excess liquid or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) during cooking. You can also add more cheese for extra richness.

What if I don’t have an immersion blender?

No problem! Carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot. Just be cautious with hot liquids to avoid splashes.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Definitely! Carrots, cauliflower, or potatoes make great additions and blend beautifully with broccoli. Just adjust cooking times until all veggies are tender before blending.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making a Healthy Broccoli Cheese Soup Made from Scratch Recipe that’s both simple and nourishing. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy wholesome ingredients while indulging in a creamy, comforting dish that feels like a treat. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this soup is sure to become a cherished favorite. Give it a try—you won’t believe how easy it is to whip up something so deliciously healthy and comforting!

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