Description
This Healthy Broccoli Cheese Soup is a creamy and comforting homemade recipe made from scratch using fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a flavorful vegetable broth base. It is easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and perfect for a warm, nourishing meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 4 cups Broccoli florets (Fresh, cut into small pieces)
- 1 medium Onion (Finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic (Minced)
Liquids
- 4 cups Vegetable broth (Low-sodium)
- 1 cup Milk (Whole or dairy alternative)
Dairy
- 1.5 cups Cheddar cheese (Shredded sharp cheddar)
Other
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil (For sautéing)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare Broccoli: Wash and trim the broccoli, cutting it into small florets to ensure even cooking and smooth blending later.
- Sauté Onions: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, taking care not to burn it to preserve its flavor.
- Cook Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets and chopped stems to the pot, stirring well to combine. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to soften the vegetables slightly.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the low-sodium vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the broccoli is tender and cooked through.
- Blend Soup: Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until it is smooth and creamy in texture.
- Add Milk: Return the soup to low heat and stir in milk, blending well to combine the ingredients fully.
- Melt Cheese: Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the soup.
- Season Soup: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the soup’s consistency by adding more vegetable broth or milk if desired for a thinner texture.
- Serve: Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional cheddar cheese or freshly ground black pepper if preferred.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and cheese with plant-based alternatives such as almond milk and vegan cheddar.
- If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup or pulse briefly.
- Use fresh broccoli for best flavor; frozen can be used but may alter the texture slightly.
- Low-sodium broth helps control the salt level, making it healthier.
- Adjust cheese quantity based on your taste preference and desired creaminess.