Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup
Creamy broccoli cheese soup offers a comforting blend of tender broccoli, rich cheese, and savory flavors, perfect for cozy meals and satisfying lunch or dinner options.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, bring 2 cups boiling water to a boil.
- Add frozen broccoli cuts, return to boil, then reduce heat and cover.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, then turn off the heat without draining.
- In a separate pan, saute chopped onion in butter until tender.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually stir in milk until smooth.
- Add the undrained broccoli and pepper, then simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in cheese spread and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker soup, blend a portion of the broccoli before adding it back in. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the milk with low-sodium chicken broth. For added flavor, consider incorporating minced garlic or herbs like thyme. If you have extra veggies, such as carrots or celery, they can be sautéed with the onions for more depth. For a different twist, try adding a dash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with shredded cheese or croutons for added texture. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Honey Chicken With Crumb-Topped Tomatoes. This soup also makes a comforting starter for a dinner party or cozy family gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. You can add a splash of milk to thin it out if it has thickened. Avoid microwaving as it may alter the creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup contains roughly 337 calories, with 7g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli! Just steam it until tender before adding it to the soup. You may need to adjust the cooking time. Fresh broccoli will enhance the flavor and texture, making the soup even more vibrant.
What type of cheese is best for this soup?
While any cheese can work, sharp cheddar is the most popular choice for its strong flavor. You can also mix in some cream cheese for extra creaminess. For a different taste profile, try adding a bit of Gruyère or Monterey Jack.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, substitute the chicken bouillon cubes with vegetable broth or bouillon. You can also enhance the flavor by adding nutritional yeast, which provides a cheesy flavor without using dairy.
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).