This creamy broccoli soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with fresh broccoli and a touch of cream, making it both healthy and tasty.
Whenever I make this soup, I like to add some crunchy bread on the side. It’s perfect for dipping! Don’t forget to slurp—it’s part of the fun! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is key for a vibrant flavor and texture. If you can’t find fresh, frozen broccoli works but reduce cooking time slightly, as it’s already blanched.
Onion: I use yellow onions for their sweetness. If you’re short on time, shallots or even leeks can add a lovely flavor too.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch. Just remember, one clove is roughly equivalent to 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Butter: While unsalted butter is the norm, you can use olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute if you prefer. Coconut oil also adds a unique flavor!
Half-and-half: You can swap this for heavy cream for a richer soup, or use whole milk for a lighter version. For a dairy-free option, try coconut milk or a non-dairy creamer.
How Do I Blend the Soup Smoothly?
Blending the soup smoothly is crucial for that creamy texture. Here’s how you can do it:
- If using an immersion blender, it’s a one-step process. Just blend directly in the pot until smooth.
- For a traditional blender, let the soup cool slightly first, then fill the blender halfway to avoid splatter. Blend in batches if needed.
- Don’t forget to return the blended soup to the pot and reheat gently before serving!
Enjoy the silky smooth texture it gives your soup!
How to Make Cream of Broccoli Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- Small broccoli florets
- Croutons
- Freshly ground black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and around 20 minutes cooking. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Base:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent. This step builds a delicious flavor base.
2. Flavors in the Pot:
Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Making the Roux:
Stir in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes while stirring constantly. This mixture, called a roux, will help thicken your soup.
4. Adding the Broth:
Gradually whisk in the vegetable or chicken broth. Make sure there are no lumps. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer.
5. Cooking the Broccoli:
Add the broccoli florets to the pot. Cover it and let the soup simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the broccoli is tender. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
6. Blending It All Together:
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it’s nice and smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until creamy. Just be cautious of the hot soup!
7. Finishing Touches:
Return the blended soup to low heat and stir in the half-and-half or cream. Heat it through, but make sure not to bring it to a boil.
8. Seasoning:
Season the soup with salt and black pepper to your taste. Adjust as needed for your preference!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot! You can garnish with small broccoli florets, croutons, and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper for added flavor and a lovely presentation.
Enjoy your comforting and delicious cream of broccoli soup! Perfect for any day of the week!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in this recipe! Just make sure to thaw it first. You might need to reduce the cooking time, as frozen broccoli is often blanched prior to freezing.
What Can I Use Instead of Half-and-Half?
If you don’t have half-and-half on hand, heavy cream is a great substitute for a richer flavor. For a lighter option, whole milk works fine too. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut milk or any non-dairy creamer.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Soup?
Absolutely! You can enhance the soup with other vegetables like carrots, celery, or even spinach. Just chop them up and add them along with the broccoli during the cooking process.
