Great! Cheesy Broccoli Soup
A creamy, comforting soup bursting with fresh broccoli and Velveeta cheese, perfect for quick weeknight meals that satisfy both kids and adults.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine broccoli, onion, chicken broth and pepper in a large pot and cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Let the mixture stand for 5 minutes.
- Whisk milk and flour together until smooth.
- Blend the milk mixture into the hot vegetable soup.
- Add more pepper to taste.
- Continue cooking until the soup starts to boil and thickens, stirring constantly.
- Stir in the cubed Velveeta cheese until it melts into the soup.
- Cook for about 5 more minutes on medium heat.
- Optionally add other vegetables such as cabbage or cauliflower for variety.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, sauté the onion in a bit of butter before adding the broccoli and broth. If you want a healthier version, consider using low-fat cheese or a mix of cheddar and cream cheese instead of Velveeta. You can also substitute other vegetables like carrots or spinach for a twist. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the soup after adding the cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheesy broccoli soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a light sandwich, such as a turkey club, or make it a main course alongside a refreshing cucumber salad. For more comforting options, consider browsing other American recipes that feature creamy soups.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of milk or broth while reheating to achieve the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Great! Cheesy Broccoli Soup contains roughly 535 calories, with 15g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (221% of the Daily Value), iron (33% of the Daily Value), and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 709mg per serving (31% 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 broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the soup. Frozen broccoli may have a softer texture, so adjust cooking time accordingly to prevent it from becoming mushy.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also enhance the flavor by adding herbs like thyme or basil and using plant-based cheese alternatives for a creamy texture.
Is it possible to freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup can be frozen, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after thawing due to the cheese. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove.
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).