Creamy Broccoli Soup

Name: Creamy Broccoli Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups broccoli florets; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: grated cheese or croutons for garnish

Highlighted under: Light & Wholesome

I absolutely love making Creamy Broccoli Soup, especially on chilly days when I crave something warm and comforting. The rich, velvety texture coupled with the fresh taste of broccoli makes this dish a real winner. It's simple to whip up and perfect for a cozy dinner or as a starter for a special occasion. Plus, it's a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies without compromising on flavor. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Rowena Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:40:35.759Z

When I first made Creamy Broccoli Soup, I was pleasantly surprised by how flavorful it turned out. I used fresh broccoli and a combination of herbs to enhance the taste. I learned early on that sautéing the onions and garlic in butter before adding them to the soup brings out their natural sweetness, creating a more complex flavor profile. It’s a technique that I continue to use in all my creamy soups.

This soup not only warms you up but also provides great nutrition with the broccoli being rich in vitamins K and C. I like to garnish it with a sprinkle of cheese or some croutons for added texture. Once you taste it, you'll understand why it's one of my go-to recipes!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Smooth and creamy texture that soothes the soul
Packed with nutritious broccoli for guilt-free indulgence
Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners

Cooking Techniques for Creamy Perfection

When blending the soup, achieving a silky smooth consistency is key to elevating the flavor. If you opt for a standard blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before transferring it in batches to prevent hot soup from splattering. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth—if it feels too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a bit more vegetable broth or cream until you reach your desired texture.

The temperature you cook the soup at can significantly impact the flavor. After adding the broth, keep the heat at a gentle simmer rather than a vigorous boil. High heat can cause the broccoli to lose its vibrant green color and delicate flavor, resulting in a dull-tasting soup. A consistent low simmer for about 20 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the broccoli retains its nutrients.

Ingredient Insights

Using high-quality vegetable broth is essential for enhancing the overall taste of this soup. Homemade broth will yield the best flavor but store-bought varieties can work just as well—just be sure to choose a low-sodium option so you can control the saltiness of your dish. This will allow you to season to taste without overwhelming the natural flavors of the broccoli.

Heavy cream is what gives this soup its luxurious, creamy texture. However, for a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half or coconut cream, keeping in mind that these will slightly alter the flavor profile. If you're looking to make a dairy-free option, consider using cashew cream, which can be created by blending soaked cashews with a bit of water until creamy.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Broccoli Soup

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups broccoli florets
3 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: grated cheese or croutons for garnish

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to streamline the process.

Instructions

Steps to Prepare Creamy Broccoli Soup

Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Broccoli and Broth

Stir in the broccoli florets and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.

Blend the Soup

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.

Add Cream and Season

Return the blended soup to low heat and stir in the heavy cream. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated cheese or croutons if desired. Enjoy your warm, comforting Creamy Broccoli Soup!

Enjoy the delicious flavors of this creamy soup paired with some crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of nutmeg before serving. This soup also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Creamy Broccoli Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it on the stove over low heat and stir frequently until warmed through. If the soup thickens while sitting, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to bring it back to your desired consistency before serving.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container, leaving some space at the top, as liquids expand when frozen. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. To defrost, place it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently on the stove as previously mentioned.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Broccoli Soup makes an excellent starter or can be served as a main dish paired with crusty bread or a side salad for a wholesome meal. For an extra punch of flavor, drizzle with a high-quality olive oil or sprinkle with red pepper flakes just before serving to give it a slight kick.

If you're looking to enhance your soup with additional nutritious ingredients, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or a handful of spinach just before blending. This not only adds flavor but also boosts the health factor of this already veggie-packed dish, making it even more comforting and satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as it generally cooks faster.

→ Is there a dairy-free version of this soup?

Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or any plant-based cream.

→ How long can I store the soup in the fridge?

You can store the Creamy Broccoli Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Yes! Feel free to add carrots, potatoes, or even cauliflower for added nutrition and flavor.