Broccoli Soup Recipe – Easy, Healthy, and Creamy Homemade Soup
Nothing soothes the soul quite like a warm bowl of homemade soup. Among the most nourishing and satisfying options, broccoli soup stands out for its rich flavor, smooth texture, and impressive nutritional value. Whether you are looking for a comforting meal during colder months or a light lunch that keeps you full without weighing you down, broccoli soup is a reliable and delicious choice.
The beauty of broccoli soup lies in its versatility. It can be thick and creamy or light and brothy. You can add cheese, blend in more vegetables, or keep it simple with just a few ingredients. It caters to various dietary needs and can be easily customized for vegan, gluten-free, or keto preferences.
Home cooks often appreciate this dish for how forgiving it is. Even if you are not an experienced chef, making broccoli soup is a breeze once you understand the basic steps. And the results are always worth it — a smooth, flavorful soup that pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
In this guide, you will find everything you need to create a perfect pot of broccoli soup at home. From a detailed ingredient list with calorie counts to step-by-step instructions and helpful customization tips, this is your go-to resource for mastering this hearty dish.
Ingredients Needed
Here is a comprehensive list of what you’ll need to prepare classic broccoli soup. Each ingredient includes an approximate calorie count per serving to help you track your intake.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx) |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh broccoli florets | 4 cups | 100 |
| Yellow onion (chopped) | 1 medium | 45 |
| Garlic cloves (minced) | 2 cloves | 9 |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | 240 |
| Vegetable broth (low sodium) | 4 cups | 60 |
| Potato (peeled and diced) | 1 medium | 110 |
| Carrot (chopped) | 1 large | 30 |
| Salt | To taste | 0 |
| Black pepper | To taste | 0 |
| Milk or cream (optional) | ½ cup | 75 (for cream) |
| Grated cheddar (optional) | ¼ cup | 110 |
Total estimated calories per serving (without cheese and cream): Around 150
With cheese and cream: Approximately 250
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Creating a delicious broccoli soup does not require professional culinary skills. Just follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll have a steaming pot ready in under an hour.
- Sauté the aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.Discover even more flavors in Carrot Soup - Add the vegetables
Toss in the chopped carrot and diced potato. Stir for a couple of minutes to coat the vegetables with oil and aromatics. - Pour in the broth
Add the vegetable broth and bring everything to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for 10 minutes. - Add broccoli
Drop in the broccoli florets and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for another 10 to 15 minutes or until all vegetables are soft and fork-tender. - Blend until smooth
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half and leave some pieces intact. For a completely smooth soup, transfer to a countertop blender in batches. - Finish with cream or cheese (optional)
For a creamier consistency, stir in milk or cream after blending. If you like a cheesy flavor, add grated cheddar and mix until melted. - Season and serve
Add salt and black pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and serve warm.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Broccoli soup is wonderfully adaptable, and you can tailor it to your taste or dietary needs. Here are some creative and practical customization ideas:
- Make it vegan
Skip the cream and cheese. Instead, use coconut milk or cashew cream for a plant-based richness. - Add protein
Stir in cooked lentils, chickpeas, or shredded chicken to make it more filling. - Switch the base
Use chicken broth for a richer flavor or swap potatoes for cauliflower for a lower-carb version. - Spice it up
Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat. - Brighten the flavor
A splash of lemon juice or a bit of fresh dill at the end can elevate the soup and add freshness.
Nutritional Information
A standard serving of broccoli soup offers plenty of vitamins and fiber, making it a smart choice for health-conscious individuals. Here’s a breakdown of what you get in a bowl:
This soup is low in saturated fat and contains a good amount of antioxidants, making it both heart-healthy and supportive of the immune system.
Serving Suggestions
Broccoli soup works well as both a main dish and a starter. Here are a few serving ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable:
- Crusty bread
A slice of whole grain or sourdough bread is perfect for dipping. - Grilled cheese sandwich
Pair the soup with a melty sandwich for a nostalgic, comforting combo. - Side salad
Add a fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to lighten the meal. - Toppings
Top your soup with roasted seeds, croutons, or a swirl of pesto for added flavor and texture. - Meal prep
Broccoli soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just reheat and enjoy anytime.
Broccoli Soup Recipe – Easy, Healthy, and Creamy Homemade Soup
Course: Blog4
servings10
minutes25
minutes150–250
kcalIngredients
4 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium potato, peeled and diced
1 large carrot, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
½ cup milk or cream (optional)
¼ cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Salt, to taste
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped carrot and diced potato. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For a vegan version, replace dairy with coconut milk or cashew cream and skip the cheese. You can also add a handful of spinach or peas for extra nutrition and color. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for later.
FAQs about Broccoli Soup
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works just as well. Just reduce the cooking time slightly since it’s already blanched.
Is it necessary to add potatoes?
Potatoes help thicken the soup naturally. If you’re avoiding carbs, cauliflower or white beans can be good substitutes.
How can I make the soup thicker without cream?
Blending the soup with starchy vegetables like potatoes or adding a spoonful of soaked cashews during blending gives it a creamy feel without dairy.
What herbs go well with broccoli soup?
Thyme, basil, parsley, and dill all complement the earthy flavor of broccoli nicely.
Can I serve it cold?
While broccoli soup is usually served warm, it can be chilled and served as a cold soup, especially during warmer seasons.
Conclusion
Broccoli soup offers a wonderful mix of comfort, flavor, and nutrition. Making it at home gives you complete control over the ingredients and allows for endless creativity. From creamy versions to lighter brothy ones, the possibilities are endless, and each variation has its own charm.
