This creamy broccoli soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! With fresh broccoli and a touch of cream, it’s smooth, tasty, and perfect for chilly days.
I love how quick it is to make—just blend and cook! Plus, you can sneak in some extra cheese if you’re feeling adventurous. Who can say no to cheese? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives the best flavor and texture. If you can’t find it or prefer a different green, cauliflower or even spinach works well as substitutes. They’ll provide a different but delightful taste!
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth. You can replace it with shallots for a milder flavor or skip it if you prefer a simpler broth.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor. If you’re out, garlic powder can be a substitute, but use less, around 1/4 teaspoon, since it’s more concentrated.
Butter: Unsalted butter brings a rich taste. Extra virgin olive oil can easily replace it for a lighter version, especially if you want a dairy-free option.
Heavy cream: Heavy cream adds richness, but you could swap it with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like almond or coconut milk for a lighter version. Just know the flavor will differ slightly.
How Do I Properly Blend Soup to Get That Creamy Texture?
Blending the soup to a smooth, creamy consistency is crucial for this recipe. Here’s how you can do it right:
- **Use an immersion blender:** This is convenient because you can blend directly in the pot. Just be careful not to splash!
- **If using a regular blender:** Allow the soup to cool slightly before blending in batches. Fill the blender halfway and don’t forget to vent the lid to prevent pressure buildup.
- **For a super-smooth finish:** Blend longer until you achieve the desired creaminess. You can always add extra broth if it gets too thick.
By taking these steps, you’ll create a wonderfully textured soup that’s rich and comforting. Enjoy making it!
Cream of Broccoli Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: croutons and chopped fresh parsley or chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Cream of Broccoli Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook. So, you’re looking at about 35 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent and soft—this will take about 4–5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and stir for another minute until it’s fragrant.
2. Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour into the pot while stirring constantly to create a roux, which will thicken your soup. Continue to cook this mixture for about 2 minutes.
3. Add Broth:
Slowly whisk in the broth to avoid lumps forming. Once mixed well, bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
4. Cook the Broccoli:
Add the fresh broccoli florets to the pot and let them simmer until tender, which should take about 10-12 minutes.
5. Blend the Soup:
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until it’s nice and smooth. If you don’t have one, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender—just be careful and blend it until creamy.
6. Stir in Cream:
With the soup blended to your desired consistency, stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and warm the soup gently. Make sure not to let it boil at this point.
7. Season and Serve:
Don’t forget to taste your soup! Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Lastly, serve the soup hot, garnished with croutons and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for that extra touch!
This soup’s velvety texture and gentle broccoli flavor make it a comforting classic, perfect for warming up on a cold day!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a great alternative and will save you prep time. Just add it directly to the pot with the broth and reduce the cooking time slightly, about 8-10 minutes should do, until tender.
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative. Also, use olive oil instead of butter for a completely dairy-free version.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove, adding a little extra broth or cream to bring back its creamy texture.
Can I Add Extra Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add cooked bacon, cheese, or even some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added flavor and nutrition. Just remember that additional ingredients can affect the cooking time and seasoning, so adjust as needed!
