Cream of Broccoli Soup Recipe
Introduction
This Cream of Broccoli Soup is a comforting, velvety classic that warms the soul. Made with fresh broccoli and a rich blend of cream and broth, it’s perfect for a cozy meal any time of year.
Ingredients
- 4 stalks celery (finely diced)
- 1 large yellow onion (peeled & diced)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 8-12 oz fresh broccoli florets (roughly chopped)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (+ 1/4 cup cold water)
- 2 cups heavy cream
Instructions
- Step 1: Add the celery, onion, and butter to a large skillet set over medium-low heat. Cook just until tender.
- Step 2: Add the broccoli, chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the pot, then bring the mixture to a boil. Immediately reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.
- Step 3: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup. You can blend it smooth or leave some chunks, depending on your preference.
- Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the soup.
- Step 5: Bring the soup to a boil again, then reduce to a simmer for 3-4 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and let the soup heat on low for about 10 minutes.
- Step 6: Serve hot and enjoy your creamy broccoli soup!
Tips & Variations
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to deepen the flavor.
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half if you prefer a lighter soup.
- Garnish with shredded cheddar or croutons for extra texture.
Storage
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent curdling.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. However, the texture of the cream may change slightly after thawing. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely. Frozen broccoli can be used in place of fresh; just adjust cooking time slightly until the broccoli is tender.
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Cream of Broccoli Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This creamy broccoli soup combines fresh broccoli, celery, and onions simmered slowly in chicken broth, then blended to a smooth or chunky texture and enriched with heavy cream. Perfect as a comforting starter or light meal, this recipe delivers warmth and wholesome flavors with a velvety finish.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 stalks celery (finely diced)
- 1 large yellow onion (peeled & diced)
- 8–12 oz fresh broccoli florets (roughly chopped)
Liquids & Fats
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
Seasonings & Thickeners
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (+ 1/4 cup cold water)
Instructions
- Prepare the base vegetables: Add the finely diced celery, peeled and diced onion, and butter to a large skillet set over medium-low heat. Cook gently until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, ensuring the butter melts and evenly coats the vegetables.
- Simmer with broccoli and broth: Transfer the cooked vegetables to a pot, add roughly chopped broccoli florets, chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to prevent sticking and blend flavors.
- Blend the soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup to your preferred consistency, whether completely smooth or leaving some chunks for texture and heartiness.
- Thicken the soup: In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and cold water until smooth and fully combined. Stir this mixture into the simmering soup to help thicken it evenly.
- Finish the soup: Bring the soup back to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer for 3-4 minutes to activate the thickening agent. Stir in the heavy cream, allowing the soup to heat gently over low heat for about 10 minutes, melding all flavors and creating a rich texture.
- Serve: Ladle the creamy broccoli soup into bowls and serve warm. Enjoy as a comforting appetizer or light meal.
Notes
- Adjust broccoli quantity between 8-12 oz based on desired thickness and broccoli flavor intensity.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- You can blend the soup fully smooth or leave some broccoli chunks for texture.
- If the soup gets too thick after refrigeration, stir in a splash of broth or cream when reheating.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cream of Broccoli Soup, Broccoli Soup, Creamy Soup, Healthy Soup, Comfort Food, Easy Soup Recipe
