Best Cream of Broccoli Soup: Restaurant-Quality at Home
A blend of fresh florets and savory aromatics makes this a cozy kitchen indulgence.
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Best Cream of Broccoli Soup Recipe
If you crave a rich, creamy, and comforting soup that’s also simple to prepare, this Cream of Broccoli Soup delivers on every level. With a blend of fresh broccoli, aromatic vegetables, and a silky, thick base, you can bring restaurant-quality flavor to your own kitchen any night of the week. Whether you’re after a hearty dinner, a light lunch, or an impressive starter, this recipe is a must-have in your soup arsenal.
Why You’ll Love This Cream of Broccoli Soup
- Easy Preparation: Ready in about 30-40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Velvety Texture: A classic roux thickens the soup for that ideal creamy mouthfeel.
- Rich Flavor: Onions, celery, and just the right amount of seasoning create depth and balance.
- Customizable: Vegetarian option available; add-ins and toppings to suit all tastes.
Ingredients for the Best Cream of Broccoli Soup
To create this unforgettable soup, you’ll need the following key ingredients:
- Butter: Used twice—first to sauté vegetables and later for the roux that thickens the soup.
- Onions & Celery: The fragrant base, adding depth and a touch of sweetness.
- Broth: Chicken broth for classic flavor, or substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Broccoli: Choose vibrant, deep green florets with sturdy stems for the best flavor and texture.
- Flour, Milk, & Butter: These form the roux, the essential thickening agent that provides a creamy consistency.
- Pepper & Seasonings: Freshly ground black pepper, and extras like nutmeg, to taste.
- Cheddar Cheese (Optional): For a cheesy twist, garnish with shredded sharp cheddar.
See the full ingredient list and measurements below.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Butter | 3 tbsp + 1 tbsp | Divided, for sauté and roux |
| Onion | 1/2, chopped | Yellow or white |
| Celery | 1 small stalk, chopped | For flavor base |
| Broccoli florets | 2 cups | Fresh preferred |
| Water | 2 cups | For simmering broccoli |
| Chicken broth or bouillon | 1 1/4 cup or 1 cube | Vegetable for vegetarian |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tbsp | Thickening agent |
| Milk | 1 1/4 cups | Whole for creaminess |
| Ground black pepper | 1/4 tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Nutmeg (optional) | 1/4 tsp | For subtle warmth |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1/4 cup | For garnish |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps for a soup that’s satisfyingly thick, creamy, and delicious:
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium pot. Add broccoli florets and cook for about 3 minutes until tender but still bright green.
- Drain broccoli, reserving all of the cooking water.
- In a blender or food processor, process half of the cooked broccoli until fairly smooth. Chop the remaining broccoli and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Melt 1 tablespoon butter (or margarine) in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and celery. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Create the Roux:
- Stir in 2 tablespoons flour, cooking and stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes (do not let it brown).
- Build the Soup Base:
- Add reserved broccoli water and chicken bouillon granules or powder. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
- Lower the heat to medium; simmer, stirring often, until the soup thickens (about 10 minutes).
- Finish the Soup:
- Stir in the milk, nutmeg, pepper, and both pureed and chopped broccoli. Warm through, tasting and adjusting seasonings if desired.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Ladle soup into bowls; top each with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese for extra flavor and color. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Cream of Broccoli Soup
- Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh florets yield sweeter, more vibrant soup than frozen.
- Reserve Broccoli Water: This keeps the nutrients and adds natural broccoli flavor to the broth.
- Don’t Skip the Roux: The roux is key for a velvety texture that holds up even when reheated.
- Puree for Texture: Blending half the broccoli creates body and creaminess, while leaving some pieces adds texture.
- Add Cheese if Desired: A handful of sharp cheddar or a swirl of cream makes this soup restaurant-worthy.
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth or bouillon.
- Extra Creamy: Replace part of the milk with heavy cream, or add a splash of half-and-half at the end.
- Cheesy Broccoli Soup: Stir in more cheddar or add a touch of cream cheese for a rich finish.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for the roux.
- Low-Fat: Use low-fat milk and reduce butter, though the texture will be lighter.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with extra shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or a few snipped chives.
- Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or warm dinner rolls for a satisfying meal.
- Pair as a starter with roasted chicken, grilled sandwiches, or light salads.
Storing and Reheating
This soup stores well, making it ideal for meal prep:
What others are reading
- Refrigerator: Store cooled soup in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezing: Cream-based soups can sometimes separate after freezing; if you freeze, re-blend gently when reheating for the best texture.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling, which can cause the dairy to separate.
Nutrition Information (Approximate, per serving)
| Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbohydrates | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 200 | 7g | 12g | 18g | 2g |
Values may vary based on precise ingredients and serving size.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Yes, but for best flavor and color, blanch frozen broccoli before using. Fresh broccoli is preferred for optimal taste and texture.
Q: How do I make this soup vegan?
A: Substitute plant-based butter, use vegetable broth, and replace the milk with unsweetened almond, oat, or soy milk. Skip the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
Q: What’s the best way to thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
A: Simmer uncovered to let it reduce, or add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) a little at a time until the desired thickness is reached.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Diced carrots, cauliflower, or potatoes blend well and boost nutrition. Add them when simmering the onions and celery.
Q: Is this soup suitable for freezing?
A: You can freeze it, but cream soups may separate. Stir well when reheating or re-blend for best texture.
Expert Tips for Restaurant-Worthy Soup
- Blend Carefully: If you prefer a super smooth soup, use an immersion blender directly in the pot (carefully, to avoid splashes).
- Adjust Seasonings: A touch of nutmeg enhances creaminess and adds subtle warmth—just a pinch is enough.
- Presentation: Serve with a swirl of cream, a sprinkle of herbs, or toasted seeds for visual appeal.
What Makes This the Best Cream of Broccoli Soup?
- Balanced Flavors: The right mix of aromatics, quality broth, and well-cooked broccoli gives this soup an unforgettable taste.
- Customizable Creaminess: From light and brothy to luxuriously rich, this recipe flexes to fit your preferences.
- Approachable Ingredients: No hard-to-find items—they’re likely already in your kitchen!
More Broccoli Soup Inspirations
- Easy Cheesy Cream of Broccoli Soup: Use American cheese and cream of mushroom soup for a shortcut version.
- Gourmet Cream of Broccoli Soup: Add potato and heavy cream for a more decadent texture.
- Copycat Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Take inspiration from restaurant favorites by adding carrots, celery, and extra cheese.
Conclusion
With just a handful of everyday ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a luxurious cream of broccoli soup that’s just as good—if not better—than what you’d find at your favorite restaurant. Enjoy experimenting with variations, and don’t forget to double the batch—this soup is sure to become a family favorite!
References
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/13313/best-cream-of-broccoli-soup/
- https://www.everydaycookingadventures.com/allrecipes-cream-of-broccoli-soup/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/13195/easy-cheesy-cream-of-broccoli-soup/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/13018/gourmet-cream-of-broccoli-soup/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/235874/copycat-panera-broccoli-cheddar-soup/
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