Cream of Broccoli Soup

Make the best Cream of Broccoli Soup with this easy and flavorful recipe! Packed with fresh broccoli, creamy potatoes, and a medley of aromatic seasonings, this healthy soup is the ultimate comfort food. Learn how to make it rich and velvety with simple ingredients like chicken broth, half and half, and optional cheddar cheese. Perfect for meal prep, freezing, or serving alongside crusty bread, this versatile soup is ideal for cozy dinners or impressing guests. Customize it with vegetarian, vegan, or protein-packed variations. Try this crowd-pleasing broccoli soup recipe today!

Ingredients

Soup Base:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• ½ cup carrots, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon EACH: dried rosemary, thyme, salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pinch cayenne (optional)

Vegetables:

• 5 cups broccoli florets, cut into chunks (about 2 large heads)
• 2 Russet potatoes (1 pound), peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes

Liquids:

• 5 cups chicken broth (low sodium, if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce)
• ¾ cup half and half (or heavy cream)

Optional Garnish:

• 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded

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Instructions

1. Sauté the Base:
   Heat the butter and olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onions, celery, and carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
2. Add Seasonings and Garlic:
   Stir in the garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Sauté for 1 minute to release the aromas.
3. Cook the Broccoli:
   Add the broccoli florets to the pot and sauté for 5 minutes, keeping the pot partially covered.
4. Add Potatoes and Broth:
   Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and soy sauce. Increase the heat and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to medium heat and let it simmer, partially covered, for about 20 minutes or until the vegetables are fork-tender.
5. Blend Until Smooth:
   Remove the soup from the heat. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender, blending until smooth, then return it to the pot.
6. Add Cream:
   Warm the half and half in the microwave for about 30 seconds, then stir it into the soup for a creamy finish.
7. Serve and Garnish:
   Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with shredded cheddar cheese if desired, and serve hot.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Comfort Food: Loaded with vegetables and natural flavors for a nourishing meal.
• Creamy Texture: The potatoes provide a velvety texture, while optional cream and cheese add richness.
• Easy to Make: A straightforward recipe that’s perfect for beginners or busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Customizable with your favorite seasonings, vegetables, or garnishes.

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Tips

• Prep Ahead: Chop the vegetables and peel the potatoes in advance to save time.
• Blending: Allow the soup to cool slightly before blending to avoid accidents.
• Adjust Thickness: Add more broth for a thinner soup or simmer longer for a thicker consistency.
• Cheese Tip: For a smooth texture, add cheese gradually to warm soup off the heat to prevent clumping.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure soy sauce is vegan-friendly.
• Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, turkey, or ham for added protein.
• Herbal Twist: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can be stirred in before serving.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute half and half with coconut milk or a non-dairy creamer.

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FAQs

Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes! Allow the soup to cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Q: Can I make this soup vegan?
A: Absolutely. Swap butter for a plant-based alternative, use vegetable broth, and substitute cream with coconut milk or cashew cream.

Q: How do I avoid a grainy texture?
A: Be sure to blend the soup thoroughly and add cheese off the heat to ensure it melts smoothly.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair this soup with crusty bread or a baguette for dipping.
• Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a light and balanced meal.
• Top with croutons, crispy bacon, or roasted chickpeas for added texture and flavor.

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Enjoy this creamy and flavorful Cream of Broccoli Soup, perfect for cozy dinners or as a starter for your next meal!