Broccoli Soup is a creamy, comforting bowl of green goodness that’s as satisfying as it is nourishing. With just a few simple ingredients, this soup delivers rich flavor and velvety texture without being heavy. Whether I want a cozy lunch, a light dinner, or a healthy side, this recipe is one I turn to over and over again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how easy and versatile this broccoli soup is. It comes together quickly with ingredients I usually have on hand and tastes far more luxurious than it should. It’s naturally vegetarian (and easily made vegan), and I can adjust the texture and creaminess to suit my mood. Best of all, it’s a great way to get a big dose of greens without feeling like I’m eating health food.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Broccoli (chopped into florets)
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Onion (chopped)
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Garlic (minced)
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Olive oil or butter
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Vegetable or chicken broth
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Potato (peeled and diced, for thickness)
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Milk or cream (optional for extra creaminess)
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Salt
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Black pepper
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Nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
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Shredded cheese (optional topping)
Directions
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I start by heating olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
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I sauté the onions until they’re soft, then add the garlic and cook for another minute.
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I stir in the broccoli and potato, season with salt and pepper, and pour in the broth.
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I bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15–20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
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I remove the pot from the heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. For a chunkier texture, I blend just part of it.
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I stir in milk or cream if I want a richer soup, and add a pinch of nutmeg for extra depth.
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I adjust the seasoning, then serve hot—sometimes topped with shredded cheese or a drizzle of olive oil.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 bowls of soup. It takes around 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so I usually have it ready in about 30 minutes total.
Variations
I often mix things up by adding spinach, kale, or peas for extra greens. For a cheesy version, I stir in sharp cheddar or Parmesan just before serving. If I want a heartier meal, I top it with croutons or serve it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich. I’ve also made it vegan by using plant-based milk and oil instead of butter.
Storage/Reheating
Leftover broccoli soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. I keep it in an airtight container and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If it thickens too much, I just stir in a splash of broth or water to loosen it. It also freezes nicely—I let it cool completely, portion it out, and freeze it for up to 2 months.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, I’ve used frozen broccoli many times. It works just as well and doesn’t change the flavor much. I just add it straight to the pot—no need to thaw.
How do I make it vegan?
To make it vegan, I use olive oil instead of butter and replace any dairy with plant-based milk or cream. Oat milk and cashew cream work really well.
What makes the soup creamy without using cream?
The potato adds natural creaminess when blended, so I often skip the dairy entirely and still get a silky texture.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. I often make it a day in advance—the flavors get even better overnight. It’s great for meal prep or a make-ahead lunch.
What should I serve with broccoli soup?
I love pairing it with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a grilled cheese sandwich. A simple green salad makes a nice side too.
Conclusion
Broccoli Soup is one of those cozy, go-to recipes that I keep in my regular rotation. It’s simple, nourishing, and full of flavor—everything I want in a quick homemade soup. Whether I serve it smooth and creamy or leave it a bit chunky, it always hits the spot and warms me right up.
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A creamy, comforting broccoli soup made with simple ingredients—a nourishing bowl of green goodness with smooth texture and rich flavor.
- Author: Lizaa
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 large head broccoli, chopped into florets
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 potato (peeled and diced) to add thickness
- 1/2–1 cup milk or cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
- Shredded cheese (optional topping)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook another minute until fragrant.
- Add broccoli florets and diced potato. Season with salt and pepper. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 15–20 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
- Remove from heat and blend using an immersion blender until smooth. For a chunkier texture, blend partially.
- Stir in milk or cream if using, and a pinch of nutmeg if you like. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve hot with optional toppings like shredded cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, or croutons.
Notes
- You can use frozen broccoli instead of fresh—add it directly, no need to thaw.
- To make it vegan, use olive oil instead of butter and plant‑based milk or cream.
- The potato helps create natural creaminess—if you skip dairy, you still get a silky texture.
- Add spinach, kale, or peas for extra greens. Serve with bread, garlic toast, or grilled cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
