This Cream of Broccoli Soup is rich, creamy, and packed with nutritious broccoli. It’s an easy, comforting soup that comes together in less than 30 minutes. Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a wholesome meal.
📋 Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter 🧈
- 1 medium onion, chopped 🧅
- 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 4 cups broccoli florets 🥦
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth 🍲
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half 🥛
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional) 🧀
- Salt and pepper, to taste 🧂
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional) 🌰
📝 Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Melt the butter:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until it becomes translucent.
- Add the garlic and broccoli:
- Add the minced garlic and broccoli florets to the pot. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Simmer the Soup:
- Add the broth:
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
3. Blend the Soup:
- Blend until smooth:
- Remove the pot from the heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth. Return the soup to the pot.
4. Add Cream and Season:
- Add the cream:
- Stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and mix until well combined.
- Season:
- Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using) to taste. If you like a cheesy flavor, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Heat through:
- Return the pot to the stove and heat the soup over low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve:
- Ladle into bowls:
- Serve the Cream of Broccoli Soup hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese or a drizzle of cream if desired.
🍽️ Tips:
- Healthier option: Use milk or a milk substitute instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Texture: For a chunkier soup, blend only half of the broccoli and leave some florets whole.
⏱️ Preparation Time: 10 minutes
⏱️ Cooking Time: 20 minutes
⏱️ Total Time: 30 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4 servings
🔥 Calories: Approximately 250-300 kcal per serving
This Cream of Broccoli Soup is creamy, comforting, and bursting with fresh broccoli flavor. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for any time of the year! 🥦🥣🌿