Broccoli-Cheddar Soup(Low-Cal)
A comforting low-calorie broccoli-cheddar soup with rich Cheddar flavor and a hint of sherry, perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner. The tender broccoli combined with a creamy broth makes it suitable for vegetarians and those seeking a wholesome, flavorful bowl of soup that satisfies without excess calories.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut and discard the hardest part of the broccoli stalk.
- Separate broccoli into flowerets and stalks. Dice the stalks and chop the flowerets.
- Put the broccoli in boiling water and cook for about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the margarine over medium heat.
- Dissolve the cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of chicken broth, then add to the saucepan.
- Gradually stir in the remaining chicken broth, milk, and sherry.
- Add salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and a few dashes of paprika to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the cooked broccoli.
- Stir in the grated Cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whole milk or a splash of heavy cream instead of low-fat milk. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with a sharp white cheddar or even a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version. To enhance the flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of Worcestershire sauce during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Farmhouse Chowder for a comforting soup night. For added protein, consider topping each bowl with shredded chicken or croutons for crunch and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation. You can also add a splash of milk or broth to restore the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Cheddar Soup(Low-Cal) contains roughly 523 calories, with 13g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (40% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 887mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or even spinach. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure all vegetables are tender and cooked through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).