Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
If you’re craving creamy, cozy comfort food but still want to keep things light and nourishing, this Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe will absolutely hit the spot. It packs all the classic cheesy goodness and hearty texture you love, but with a clever veggie-forward twist that makes it perfect for everyday meals. With simple, wholesome ingredients and a quick stovetop method, you’ll have a steaming bowl of soup ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays alike. You’ll soon see why this Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is a longtime favorite in my kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is how it transforms a handful of everyday ingredients into something truly special. Each item here plays its own role in creating a soup that’s rich in flavor, irresistibly creamy, and full of vibrant color.
- Olive oil: Adds a hint of richness and helps soften the onion and garlic without overpowering the veggies.
- Yellow onion: Brings a natural sweetness and savory base to the soup.
- Garlic: Essential for that classic depth of flavor—don’t skip it!
- Fresh broccoli florets: The star of the show, these pack the soup with nutrition, color, and heartiness.
- Carrot: Grated carrot adds a subtle sweetness and beautiful color contrast.
- Low-sodium vegetable broth: Keeps the soup light and lets you control the saltiness, while adding tons of savory flavor.
- Unsweetened almond milk (or low-fat milk): Lends creaminess without heavy calories—choose whichever suits your taste or dietary needs.
- Salt and black pepper: Classic seasonings that tie all the flavors together.
- Smoked paprika (optional): For a gentle, smoky undertone that makes the soup feel extra cozy.
- Ground mustard (optional): Adds a subtle zing and rounds out the cheesy flavor profile.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (preferably reduced-fat): Brings that signature creamy, cheesy finish to every bite.
- Cornstarch mixed with water (optional): Use this simple slurry if you prefer a thicker, heartier soup.
How to Make Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add your diced onion and let it cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant—this simple step lays a flavorful foundation for the entire Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe.
Step 2: Add the Veggies and Broth
Next, stir in the fresh broccoli florets and grated carrot. Pour in the vegetable broth and almond milk, then season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground mustard if you’re using them. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 10 to 12 minutes, until the broccoli is fork-tender and the carrots have softened.
Step 3: Blend to Your Preferred Texture
Now comes the fun part! Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend the soup. You can go for a completely smooth texture or leave a few chunks for more bite—totally up to you. This step is where the Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe transforms into that dreamy, creamy consistency.
Step 4: Thicken (Optional)
If you like your soup on the thicker side, stir in the cornstarch slurry (just cornstarch mixed with a bit of water) and let it simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll see the soup thicken up beautifully without becoming heavy.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until it’s completely melted and the soup is silky smooth. Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. Now your Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is ready to ladle up and enjoy!
How to Serve Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar, a pinch of fresh cracked pepper, or even a handful of chopped chives or parsley can take your bowl to the next level. For extra veggie flair, try topping with a few roasted broccoli florets or thinly sliced radishes to add texture and color.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a slice of hearty whole-grain bread for dipping. If you want to keep things extra healthy, serve it alongside roasted chickpeas or a crunchy slaw for a satisfying, well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe in bread bowls for a restaurant-style feel at home. You could also ladle it into small mugs for an elegant appetizer, or top each bowl with homemade croutons and a swirl of Greek yogurt for a creamy finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making it even more delicious when reheated!
Freezing
To freeze, ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating—keep in mind that the texture may change slightly, but a quick stir will bring everything back together.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently so the cheese melts smoothly and the soup doesn’t scorch. You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until heated through. Add a splash of broth or milk if needed to loosen the texture.
FAQs
Can I make this Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Just use a plant-based cheddar cheese and stick with unsweetened almond milk. You’ll still get that creamy, satisfying texture and flavor—perfect for anyone avoiding dairy.
What can I use instead of cornstarch for thickening?
If you’d rather not use cornstarch, try blending in a few extra florets of cooked broccoli or even a small cooked potato. Both options make the soup naturally thick and creamy without any added starch.
How do I keep the cheese from clumping?
Be sure to reduce the heat to low before adding your shredded cheddar, and stir constantly as you sprinkle it in. Using freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded (which often contains anti-caking agents) helps it melt smoothly into the Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works wonderfully and makes this soup even more convenient. Just add it straight to the pot—no need to thaw first. You may need to simmer for an extra minute or two so it softens fully.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! The Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe holds up beautifully in the fridge and reheats like a dream. It’s a fantastic option for prepping lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’ll give this Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe a try and let it become a new staple in your kitchen. It’s warm, nutritious, and so easy to make—perfect for cozy nights or sharing with friends and family. Dive in and enjoy every creamy, cheesy spoonful!
Print
Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting, low-calorie, vegetarian soup made with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a blend of flavorful spices. It’s creamy and delicious while being nutritious, perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner any day of the week.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 medium head)
- 1 medium carrot, grated
Liquids and Broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or low-fat milk)
Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
Cheese and Thickener
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (preferably reduced-fat)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables and Liquids: Stir in the broccoli florets, grated carrot, vegetable broth, almond milk, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground mustard. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer the Soup: Cook uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and cooked through.
- Blend Soup: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency—either fully smooth or with some chunks remaining.
- Thicken (Optional): If a thicker soup is preferred, stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the soup thickens.
- Add Cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the soup is smooth.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm.
Notes
- For added protein, stir in cooked shredded chicken or white beans.
- You can substitute cauliflower for part of the broccoli to lower carbohydrates.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat gently on the stove.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
