This creamy broccoli soup is warm and comforting, perfect for chilly days. It’s made with fresh broccoli, rich cream, and simple spices that bring out yummy flavors.
I love how quickly this soup comes together. Just blend, heat, and enjoy! Pair it with a slice of bread, and you’ve got a cozy meal that makes everyone smile. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are essential for that vibrant green color and nutrition. If fresh isn’t available, frozen broccoli works too – just thaw it before cooking.
Onion: A medium onion adds a nice sweetness to the soup. You can swap it for shallots or leeks if you prefer a milder flavor.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream gives a rich texture, you can substitute it with half-and-half, whole milk, or even coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version. Just be aware it may alter the taste slightly.
Potato: The potato adds creaminess. You could use cauliflower instead for a lower-carb alternative. It blends well and gives a similar texture!
Croutons: Store-bought croutons are easy, but you can make your own by toasting bread with a bit of olive oil and seasoning for a fresh crunch.
What’s the Best Way to Puree the Soup Without a Mess?
Pureeing the soup can be tricky due to hot liquids! Here’s how to do it safely:
- If using a blender, work in batches and fill it no more than halfway to avoid overflow. Remove the center cap of the blender lid, and cover it with a kitchen towel to let steam escape.
- For an immersion blender, blend directly in the pot. Move it around to ensure even blending. This tool is great for a quick process and easy cleaning!
- Always start blending on a low speed to avoid splattering and increase gradually.
These tips will help you create a perfectly smooth and creamy soup without any mess!
How to Make Cream of Broccoli Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced (for creaminess)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg
For Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives
- Croutons for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cream of broccoli soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, making a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and wholesome meal that you can whip up any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating your olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it turns translucent. This brings out the natural sweetness of the onion. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, or until fragrant.
2. Add the Broccoli and Potato:
Now it’s time to add the broccoli florets and diced potato to the pot. Give everything a good stir to mix and combine the flavors. The potato will help add creamy texture to your soup.
3. Boil and Simmer:
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the broccoli and potato are tender enough to easily pierce with a fork.
4. Blend Until Smooth:
Next, it’s time to blend! Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (make sure it’s not too full, as hot liquids can expand) or use an immersion blender right in the pot. Blend until the soup is super smooth and creamy. Make sure to keep your hands safe, as the soup will be hot!
5. Stir in the Cream:
Once blended, pour the soup back into the pot if you used a blender, and stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Heat the soup over low heat without bringing it to a boil again, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Season to Taste:
Finally, season your soup with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if you’re using it. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed to get just the right flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the hot soup into bowls and top with some fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color. Don’t forget the croutons for a delightful crunch on top!
This rich and velvety soup not only warms you up but also nourishes your soul. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal. Enjoy every comforting spoonful of your cream of broccoli soup! 🌿🥣
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Frozen broccoli can be a great substitute. Just make sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the soup, or adjust the cooking time slightly since it’s already blanched.
How to Thicken the Soup If It’s Too Thin?
If your soup turns out too thin, you can add a little more diced potato next time, or mash some of the cooked broccoli slices back into the soup for a thicker texture. Alternatively, you can let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
How Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
You can easily make this soup dairy-free by substituting the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Just ensure to adjust any seasonings accordingly, as non-dairy options can have different flavor profiles.
Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a bit of water or broth if it has thickened too much during storage.
