Wholesome, Velvety, and Easy Broccoli Soup – Ready in Just 20 Minutes!
Indulge in this creamy and comforting Broccoli Soup made with fresh ingredients, no cream required! Perfect for a light dinner or cozy lunch – ready in just 20 minutes!
🧾 Ingredients (Serves 2–3):
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Fresh broccoli florets | 2 cups |
Onion (chopped) | 1 medium |
Garlic cloves (minced) | 2–3 |
Olive oil or butter | 1 tbsp |
Vegetable stock or water | 2.5 cups |
Milk (or cream) | ½ cup |
Black pepper | ½ tsp |
Salt | To taste |
Nutmeg (optional) | A pinch |
Grated cheese (optional) | 1–2 tbsp |
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Recipe (20 Minutes):
🔸 Prep Time: 5 minutes
🔸 Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Heat oil/butter in a pan. Sauté onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes.
- Add broccoli florets and cook for another 2 minutes.
3. Pour in vegetable stock, cover, and cook for 10 minutes or until broccoli is soft.
4. Let it cool slightly, then blend into a smooth puree.
5. Return to pan, add milk/cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
6. Simmer for 2–3 minutes. Garnish with grated cheese or herbs if desired.
7. Serve hot with croutons or toasted bread.
🧠 Top 10 Pro Tips for Broccoli Soup
- Use Fresh Broccoli:
Always use bright green broccoli for better flavor and nutrients. Trim off any yellow parts. - Don’t Overcook:
Overcooked broccoli turns mushy and dull green. Simmer just until fork-tender (8–10 mins). - Blend Smoothly:
Use an immersion blender directly in the pot or cool slightly and blend in a mixer for a silky texture. - Add a Dash of Nutmeg or Pepper:
A tiny pinch of nutmeg or black pepper boosts the aroma and balances the creaminess. - Enhance with Cheese (Optional):
Add a tablespoon of Parmesan or Cheddar at the end for richness and flavor depth. - Make it Vegan:
Swap dairy milk with unsweetened almond, oat, or coconut milk for a plant-based version. - Thicken Naturally:
Avoid flour or heavy cream – just blend cooked broccoli with a splash of milk for natural thickness. - Add Texture with Toppings:
Garnish with croutons, toasted seeds, chili oil, or sautéed garlic for added crunch and flavor. - Store Smartly:
Refrigerate up to 3 days or freeze for 1 month. Reheat gently on low flame while stirring. - Serve with Sides:
Pair it with garlic toast, grilled cheese, or a simple salad to make it a complete meal.
🔥 Calories (Per Serving):
Approx. 140–180 kcal, depending on milk/cream/cheese used.
❓ 25 FAQs – Creamy & Comforting Broccoli Soup
- Can I make broccoli soup without cream?
Yes, use milk or non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk for a lighter version. - Is broccoli soup healthier than tomato soup?
Yes, broccoli soup usually contains more fiber and vitamins like C & K, though tomato soup is rich in lycopene. - Which is better for weight loss: broccoli or mushroom soup?
Broccoli soup is higher in fiber and helps keep you full longer. Both are good, but broccoli soup is slightly better for weight loss. - Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely. Just thaw it before cooking. - How do I make broccoli soup taste less bland?
Add garlic, onion, pepper, nutmeg, or a bit of cheese for extra flavor. - Is broccoli soup good for kids?
Yes! Just blend it smooth and keep spices light. - Can I add cheese to broccoli soup?
Yes, cheddar, parmesan, or cream cheese add extra richness and flavor. - What’s the difference between broccoli soup and manchow soup?
Broccoli soup is creamy and mild; manchow soup is spicy, tangy, and served with fried noodles. - Is broccoli soup better than sweet corn soup for diabetes?
Yes. Broccoli has a lower glycemic index and more fiber. - Can I add potatoes for a thicker soup?
Yes, boiled potatoes or even cauliflower can thicken your soup naturally. - What to serve with broccoli soup?
Garlic bread, toast, grilled cheese sandwich, or a simple salad. - How long does broccoli soup last in the fridge?
2–3 days when stored in an airtight container. - Can I freeze broccoli soup?
Yes. Freeze it for up to 1 month. Avoid freezing if you added cream. - Is broccoli soup better than hot and sour soup for a sore throat?
Yes, if you want something soothing. Hot & sour soup can irritate due to its spice and acidity. - How to make broccoli soup vegan?
Use olive oil and plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Skip cheese. - What herbs go well in broccoli soup?
Thyme, basil, parsley, or oregano all complement broccoli well. - Can I use butter instead of oil?
Yes, butter gives a richer flavor. - Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, if you don’t add flour or wheat-based thickeners. - Which soup is better post-workout: broccoli or lentil soup?
Lentil soup is higher in protein; broccoli soup is lighter and more hydrating. - Can I add protein to broccoli soup?
Yes! Try tofu, white beans, or shredded chicken. - Is homemade broccoli soup better than store-bought?
Definitely! Homemade has fewer preservatives and fresher ingredients. - Can I make it in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes. Cook veggies for 2 whistles, then blend and simmer with milk. - Which is lower in calories: broccoli or cream of mushroom soup?
Broccoli soup is usually lower unless cream or cheese is added. - Is broccoli soup keto-friendly?
It can be. Use full-fat cream or cheese and avoid flour or potatoes. - How to make broccoli soup taste like Panera Bread’s version?
Add cheddar cheese and simmer with a mix of cream and stock. - Which is healthier: Broccoli Soup or Manchow Soup?
Broccoli soup is generally healthier—it’s lower in sodium, less oily, and packed with fiber and vitamins. Manchow soup is spicier and may contain fried noodles and more sodium.