healthy broccoli cheese soup recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
healthy broccoli cheese soup recipe
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The Best healthy broccoli cheese soup recipe

I’m so excited to share my favorite healthy broccoli cheese soup recipe with you all! This delicious and comforting soup has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in yours too.

As a busy mom of three, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are not only tasty but also easy to make and packed with nutrients. This broccoli cheese soup fits the bill perfectly.

The combination of steamed broccoli, rich cheese, and velvety broth is a match made in heaven. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize to your taste preferences.

My kids love it when I add in some cooked chicken or bacon for extra protein, while my husband enjoys it when I use a lighter hand on the cheese. Either way, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your household as well.

So grab some broccoli, get out your blender or immersion blender, and let’s get started! I like to serve this soup with some crusty bread or crackers on the side for dipping into the cheesy goodness.

It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat for the holidays.

Healthy Broccoli Cheese Soup

Healthy Broccoli Cheese Soup

4.6 from 1473 votes

A creamy and satisfying soup made with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, and a lightened-up base of low-fat milk and vegetable broth. This version skips heavy cream and uses a roux of whole wheat flour for thickness, making it a guilt-free comfort food.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
1/4 cup whole wheat flour
2 cups low-fat milk (1% or 2%)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (reduced fat if desired)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2Add the diced onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally.
3Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
4Sprinkle the whole wheat flour over the onion mixture and stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
5The mixture will look pasty and slightly golden.
6Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while whisking to prevent lumps.
7Add the broccoli florets and diced carrot, then bring the soup to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
8Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until the broccoli is tender when pierced with a fork.
9Remove the pot from heat.
10Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer it in batches to a regular blender and blend until smooth.
11Return the pureed soup to the pot.
12Place the pot over low heat and stir in the low-fat milk.
13Add the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
14Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika if using.
15Heat for 2 to 3 minutes until warmed through, but do not let it boil.
16Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
17Garnish with extra shredded cheese or a sprinkle of black pepper if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Immersion blender or regular blender (optional)
Ladle

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 580mg🌾Total Carbs: 32g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 10g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and vegan cheddar shreds. To make it even lower in fat, use fat-free milk and reduce the cheese to 3/4 cup. The soup thickens as it cools, so add a splash of broth or milk when reheating.

Watch Video Of How Healthy Broccoli Cheese Soup Works

I hope you enjoy this healthy broccoli cheese soup recipe as much as we do! It’s perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat for the holidays.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to customize to your taste preferences, so feel free to experiment with different combinations of vegetables and spices until you find your perfect blend.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Healthy Broccoli Cheese Soup

Q: What type of cheese should I use in this recipe?

A: You can use any type of cheese you prefer, but I highly recommend using a high-quality cheddar or a mix of cheddar and parmesan for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can also try using part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat cheddar.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

A: Yes, you can definitely make this recipe ahead of time. In fact, it’s one of the best soups to make ahead because it freezes beautifully and reheats like a charm. Simply cook the soup until it’s hot and then let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag.

Q: How do I prevent the broccoli from becoming mushy?

A: To keep your broccoli nice and tender, be sure to steam it until it’s just tender before adding it to the soup. You can also try using frozen broccoli if you don’t have access to fresh – just thaw it first and then proceed with the recipe as instructed.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?

A: Absolutely! Some people enjoy adding diced onions or bell peppers to give their soup an extra boost of flavor. Feel free to experiment with different combinations of vegetables and spices until you find your perfect blend.

Q: How long does this soup keep in the fridge?

A: This soup will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days without any issues. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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