This creamy broccoli soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! Made with fresh broccoli, onions, and a touch of cream, it’s super tasty and easy to whip up.
I love how this soup makes even the pickiest eaters smile. Pair it with some crusty bread and you’ve got a cozy meal that will warm you right up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is ideal for this soup, but frozen works too. It’s usually pre-cut and saves time. If you can’t find broccoli, feel free to use other greens like spinach or kale for a different twist.
Onion: A medium onion adds essential flavor. If you’re sensitive to onions, shallots can be a milder substitute or skip it altogether.
Heavy Cream: This gives the soup its creaminess. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or a plant-based cream like coconut cream. You can even leave it out for a healthier soup!
Nutmeg: This is optional but adds a warm flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it or try a dash of cumin as an alternative.
How Do You Puree the Soup for a Smooth Texture?
Pureeing the soup creates a silky texture that elevates its creamy base. You can use an immersion blender, which is super convenient. Just blend it directly in the pot! If you prefer a traditional blender, make sure to let the soup cool slightly before transferring it in batches.
- Blend until smooth and return it to the pot over low heat.
- Always leave space in the blender to prevent splatters—fill it only halfway.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade Cream of Broccoli Soup!
How to Make Cream of Broccoli Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or broccoli florets for garnish
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt for swirl (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time to make this delicious Cream of Broccoli Soup is about 30-40 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and about 20-30 minutes cooking and blending the soup. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become translucent and fragrant, which should take about 4-5 minutes. This step enhances the flavor of your soup!
2. Cook the Broccoli:
Next, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the broccoli to begin softening and getting coated in the tasty onion and garlic mixture.
3. Simmer the Soup:
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the broccoli is tender, which should take about 15 minutes.
4. Blend Until Smooth:
Once the broccoli is soft, remove the pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender, then return it to the pot.
5. Add Cream and Seasonings:
Return the pot to low heat and stir in the heavy cream and nutmeg (if you’re using it). Warm the soup through without bringing it back to a boil. This helps meld all the flavors!
6. Season and Serve:
Finally, season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve the soup hot, garnished with a swirl of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few small broccoli florets for a pop of color.
Enjoy your creamy, comforting bowl of Cream of Broccoli Soup! It’s a delightful dish that’s sure to warm your heart.
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Soup?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works perfectly in this recipe. Just add it directly to the pot without needing to thaw it first. It saves prep time and still results in a delicious soup!
How to Thicken the Soup if It’s Too Thin?
If you find your soup is thinner than you’d like, you can thicken it by simmering it a bit longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with a little cold water) while it’s simmering until it reaches your desired consistency.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free version, consider using coconut cream or a non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk, but keep in mind it might alter the flavor slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid boiling to maintain the creaminess!
