Lite Cream Of Broccoli Soup
A light, creamy broccoli soup with a savory blend of herbs and Cheddar cheese that offers comforting warmth and wholesome flavors. Perfect for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, it appeals to those seeking a nutritious, low-fat option that is both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 16 oz. can chicken broth ⓘ
- 1/3 cup powdered milk ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon onion flakes ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon thyme ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- 10 oz. package chopped broccoli, thawed and drained ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups skim milk ⓘ
- 1/3 cup shredded Cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon butter flavored granules ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine chicken broth, powdered milk, cornstarch, onion flakes, salt, dried basil, thyme, and pepper in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Add chopped broccoli, skim milk, shredded Cheddar cheese, and butter flavored granules to the saucepan.
- Cook until the cheese melts and the soup is well heated.
- Serve in bowls, garnished with 1/2 teaspoon shredded cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider blending a portion of the soup before adding the broccoli. If you're out of powdered milk, you can substitute with an equal amount of regular milk, but be cautious with the liquid ratios. Feel free to add additional spices like garlic powder for extra flavor. This Lite Cream Of Broccoli Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad on the side.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of shredded Cheddar cheese for added flavor. It can be accompanied by a side of toasted garlic bread or a fresh garden salad to complement the meal. This soup also makes a great starter for a hearty dish like Pa'S Chicken Pie. Enjoy with a light white wine for a complete dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens, you can add a splash of water or milk to reach your desired consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave to keep the texture smooth.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lite Cream Of Broccoli Soup contains roughly 707 calories, with 16g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (142% of the Daily Value), iron (92% of the Daily Value), and calcium (66% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1901mg per serving (83% 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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh broccoli. Just make sure to steam or blanch it before adding it to the soup to ensure it's tender. Fresh broccoli may take a bit longer to cook than the frozen variety, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.
Is there a vegan option for this soup?
To make this soup vegan, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use a plant-based milk alternative like almond or soy milk. You can also replace the Cheddar cheese with a vegan cheese option or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How can I thicken the soup without cornstarch?
If you need a cornstarch substitute, try using flour to create a roux. Mix equal parts flour and butter (or a vegan alternative) in a saucepan before adding your liquids. Alternatively, pureeing some of the soup can also help thicken it naturally, giving it a creamier texture.
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).