There is something genuinely comforting about a warm bowl of soup that nourishes both body and soul, and this Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe does just that in the most delightful way. It combines crisp, vibrant broccoli with the rich, cheesy goodness of cheddar, all brought together in a creamy yet light broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a wholesome pick-me-up, this soup proves that healthy eating does not mean sacrificing flavor. It’s simple, satisfying, and just the right balance of indulgence and nutrition.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making this Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe shine. Each one plays a vital role: from the sweet crunch of carrots to the creamy depth added by cottage cheese, every element adds texture, color, and layers of flavor that make this soup truly special.
- Butter: Helps sauté the vegetables and adds a subtle richness to the base.
- Yellow onion: Provides a sweet, aromatic foundation that mellows as it cooks.
- Carrots: Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Celery: Offers a mild bitterness and crunch that balances the soup’s creaminess.
- Garlic: Infuses a fragrant warmth that awakens the palate.
- All-purpose flour: Creates the roux to thicken the soup smoothly; gluten-free flour works well too.
- Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth that makes the flavor more complex.
- Vegetable broth: The liquid base that ties everything together without overpowering the fresh veggies.
- Broccoli: The star ingredient, providing both nutrition and that lovely green pop of color.
- 1% milk: Keeps the soup creamy but light, preventing it from feeling too heavy.
- Cheddar cheese: Delivers the classic sharp, cheesy flavor that comfort soups need.
- Low-fat cottage cheese: Blended to add smooth creaminess and extra protein without excess fat.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Then add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these colorful vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and release their wonderful aromas. This step builds the flavor foundation, so take your time and enjoy the process.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Make the Roux
Once the vegetables are tender, toss in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour evenly to coat the veggies and stir continuously for about 2 minutes to create a roux. This roux is essential to give your soup the perfect, velvety thickness that clings beautifully to every spoonful.
Step 3: Spice It Up and Add Broth
Stir in the smoked paprika for that subtle smoky note that elevates the soup. Then slowly pour in the vegetable broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and allow it to cook for about 5 minutes, thickening slightly and developing a comforting depth of flavor.
Step 4: Add Broccoli and Milk
Next, add the chopped broccoli and let it cook for another 5-7 minutes until tender but still bright green. Pour in the 1% milk, which lightens the creaminess without compromising on texture, and simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes. This creates the perfect canvas for the cheese to shine.
Step 5: Blend to Creamy Perfection
At this stage, use an immersion blender right in the pot to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a bit more texture, feel free to leave some broccoli chunks intact. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup in batches in a regular blender and return it to the pot.
Step 6: Add the Cheeses and Season
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese along with the blended cottage cheese. Watch as they melt into the hot soup, creating a luscious creamy consistency that’s both rich and balanced. Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, customizing it to your liking.
Step 7: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Your Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is now ready to be shared! Ladle it into bowls and prepare for a cozy meal that feels indulgent but nourishes your body at the same time.
How to Serve Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding the right garnishes takes this soup from delicious to unforgettable. A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar cheese adds melty richness on top, while crunchy croutons introduce a delightful contrast. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives brighten every bite with a fresh note, making your presentation Instagram-worthy.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Try a warm, crusty whole-grain bread or garlic toast to scoop up every last drop. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette works well if you want to keep the meal light but satisfying. For a heartier option, serve with roasted chicken or a grain bowl for a complete dinner experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the soup in mini bread bowls or hollowed-out bell peppers for a fun twist. Layering it in clear glass mugs shows off the lovely green and cheesy layers. Or drizzle a little olive oil or hot sauce swirl on top for visual appeal and an extra flavor kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This soup holds up wonderfully, and flavors often develop even more overnight, making your next meal easy and delicious.
Freezing
To freeze, cool the soup completely and pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When freezing, avoid adding extra cheese on top; stir in fresh cheese after reheating to keep the texture perfect.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If the soup thickens too much, simply add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it. Microwave reheating is also fine but be sure to stir occasionally for even warming.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes! Substitute the butter with olive oil, use a plant-based milk instead of dairy milk, and replace cheddar and cottage cheese with vegan cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor.
What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
If you don’t have cottage cheese, plain Greek yogurt or cream cheese can provide a similar creamy texture and tang, just add it near the end of cooking to prevent curdling.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Frozen broccoli works well and can be added directly to the pot, just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure it becomes tender without overcooking.
How can I make this soup thicker?
To thicken, simply add a bit more flour when making the roux or reduce the soup uncovered over low heat after blending to concentrate the flavors and texture.
Is this soup good for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats beautifully, making your busy week a little easier and a lot tastier.
Final Thoughts
There is something so satisfying about enjoying a bowl of homemade soup that nourishes without guilt, and this Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s a warm hug in a bowl that’s simple enough for everyday meals, yet tasty enough to impress friends and family. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort food.
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Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup combines fresh vegetables with creamy cheddar and cottage cheese for a comforting, nutritious meal. Featuring sautéed onions, carrots, and celery in a light roux, the soup is simmered with broccoli and vegetable broth, then blended until smooth for a velvety texture. It’s a delicious, lower-fat alternative to traditional cheesy soups, perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chopped broccoli
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3 cups vegetable broth (use vegetarian-friendly broth)
- 2 cups 1% milk
Cheeses
- 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese, blended for creamy texture
Seasonings
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat to prepare the base for the soup.
- Add diced onion, carrots, and celery: Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften, developing flavor and sweetness.
- Add minced garlic: Cook for an additional minute until fragrant to enhance the savory depth.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring constantly to combine, and cook for about 2 minutes. This helps thicken the soup later.
- Add smoked paprika: Stir well to evenly distribute this smoky, subtle spice.
- Add vegetable broth gradually: Pour in the broth while stirring to prevent lumps from forming and mix thoroughly.
- Simmer the mixture: Let the soup cook for about 5 minutes to allow it to thicken slightly as flavors meld.
- Add chopped broccoli: Incorporate the broccoli and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until tender but still vibrant.
- Pour in 1% milk: Continue simmering for 3-5 more minutes to integrate creaminess without heavy fat.
- Blend the soup: Use an immersion blender to process the soup until smooth and creamy. Leave some broccoli chunks if desired for texture.
- Alternately, blend in batches: If no immersion blender is available, carefully transfer soup in batches to a regular blender and pulse to desired consistency.
- Add cheddar and blended cottage cheese: Stir in the cheeses and keep stirring until melted and the soup is silky smooth.
- Season to taste: Add salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Serve hot with garnishes: Optionally top with extra shredded cheddar, croutons, or fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Use vegetable broth labeled vegetarian to keep the soup meat-free.
- Blending cottage cheese creates a creamy texture without adding heavy cream, keeping the soup lower in fat.
- You can adjust the thickness by adding more broth or milk as desired.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
