Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Name: Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup milk; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

A delicious and nutritious blend of broccoli and cheddar cheese, this soup is perfect for a cozy meal.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-08T22:00:26.908Z

This Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful way to enjoy a classic comfort food while keeping your meal nutritious. Packed with fresh broccoli and a creamy, cheesy flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture with a hint of sharp cheddar
Loaded with nutritious broccoli for a healthy boost
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights

      

A Comforting Classic

Broccoli cheddar soup has become a beloved classic in many homes. Its creamy texture and delightful flavor make it a comforting option for chilly days or when you're in need of a cozy meal. This recipe elevates the traditional version, ensuring that you enjoy not just great taste but also wholesome nutrition. It's a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor.

The combination of fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese creates a harmonious balance that delights the palate. The soup is not only satisfying but also offers a wealth of nutrients, making it a smart choice for health-conscious eaters. It's a meal that the whole family can enjoy, whether served as a main dish or as a starter.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the best aspects of this broccoli cheddar soup recipe is how quick and easy it is to prepare. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a delicious and nourishing meal on the table. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want to whip up something healthy without spending hours in the kitchen.

With just a few simple steps, you can transform fresh ingredients into a rich and flavorful soup. The sautéing of onions and garlic creates an aromatic base that sets the stage for the main ingredients. Plus, blending the soup can be done with minimal effort, making clean-up a breeze.

Versatile and Customizable

This healthy broccoli cheddar soup is incredibly versatile. While the recipe calls for standard ingredients, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For instance, if you're looking to make the soup even heartier, consider adding cooked potatoes or carrots. You could also swap out the cheddar for a different type of cheese, like gouda or pepper jack, for a unique twist.

Additionally, if you're aiming for a dairy-free version, you can substitute almond milk or coconut milk and use a plant-based cheese alternative. The possibilities are endless, making this soup a fantastic base for experimentation. Tailoring the recipe to fit your dietary requirements allows you to enjoy it even more.

Ingredients

For the Soup

4 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups vegetable broth
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all ingredients before you start cooking for the best results!

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.

Cook the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a blender and blend in batches.

Add Cheese and Milk

Stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve hot, garnished with additional cheddar cheese if desired.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! This broccoli cheddar soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

When reheating, consider adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain the creamy texture. Gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. This way, you can relish the comforting flavors all over again!

Perfect Pairings

Serve this healthy broccoli cheddar soup with a crusty baguette or some whole-grain crackers for a delightful meal. The crunchy texture of the bread complements the creamy soup, making each bite satisfying. You could also pair it with a fresh side salad to add some greens to your meal.

For a heartier option, consider adding a protein source like grilled chicken or beans. This enhances the nutritional value of the dish while keeping it filling. Whether you enjoy it solo or as part of a larger meal, this soup is sure to impress your taste buds.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it before cooking.

→ How can I make this soup vegan?

You can substitute the milk with a plant-based milk and use vegan cheese instead of cheddar.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth, this soup is gluten-free.