Creamy Broccoli Soup

This Creamy Broccoli Soup is rich, comforting, and packed with fresh broccoli flavor. With a velvety texture and just the right balance of seasonings, it's perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for the ultimate comfort meal!

Yield

Serves 4-6

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head), chopped
• 1 large potato, peeled and diced (for extra creaminess)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish, optional

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter and heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and sauté for 5 minutes, until softened and translucent.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli and Potato

1. Add the broccoli florets, potato, and dried thyme to the pot.
2. Pour in the vegetable broth and season with salt and black pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the broccoli and potatoes are tender.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

1. Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
   • Tip: For a chunkier soup, blend only half the mixture and leave the rest chunky.
   • Alternative: If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.

Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese

1. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese (if using) until melted and combined.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
2. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories,250,Carbohydrates (g),18,Fat (g),16,Protein (g),7,Fiber (g),4,Sugar (g),5,Sodium (mg),700

Tips for Success

1. Creamy Without Cream: For a lighter version, omit the cream and blend the soup thoroughly — the potato will add natural creaminess.
2. Add Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
3. Cheese Options: For extra flavor, try swapping cheddar with Gruyère or Parmesan.
4. Texture Variety: Blend only part of the soup for a mix of creamy and chunky textures.
5. Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

This Creamy Broccoli Soup is wholesome, satisfying, and perfect for a cozy meal any time of the year. Enjoy it with your favorite bread or crackers!