Creamy Cauliflower Or Broccoli Soup
Velvety cauliflower or broccoli soup with buttery gravy, melted cheese, and a hint of Worcestershire, perfect for cozy weeknights or as a comforting starter.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook cauliflower or broccoli in a small amount of boiling salted water for about 10 minutes until tender.
- Drain and chop into coarse pieces; set aside.
- In a pot, melt butter over medium heat and cook onions until tender.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Add chicken broth, milk, and Worcestershire sauce; stir until smooth.
- Cook and stir until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked vegetable pieces and bring to a boil.
- Stir in the cheese until it melts completely.
- Garnish with snipped chives or green onion tops before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder to the soup. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute half of the milk with low-fat yogurt or use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also swap out real American cheese for cheddar or Gruyere for a different taste profile. If using frozen vegetables, adjust cooking time accordingly and ensure they are well-drained.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Chicken Boursin (Creamy Cheese Filling) as a decadent side. For a garnish, sprinkle extra chives or green onions on top, and consider adding a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much after refrigeration, add a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Cauliflower Or Broccoli Soup contains roughly 1620 calories, with 21g protein, 160g carbohydrates, and 100g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (59% of the Daily Value), calcium (51% of the Daily Value), and protein (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1390mg per serving (60% 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 use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower or broccoli as a convenient substitute. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the soup. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as frozen vegetables may require less cooking time compared to fresh.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip the Worcestershire sauce or use a vegetarian alternative. You can also enhance the flavor with additional herbs or spices for depth.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture while it's cooking. Another option is to blend in some sautéed jalapeños or add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to taste before serving.
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).