Better Than the Deli: Homemade Cheesy Broccoli and Cheese Soup

This velvety broccoli and cheese soup is the ultimate comfort food with a wholesome twist. Loaded with tender broccoli, creamy cheese, and a rich, savory base, it brings warmth and satisfaction without going overboard on calories. It’s a feel-good meal that’s simple enough for a weeknight and special enough to share.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy & Cozy: Smooth, cheesy texture with just the right amount of richness.
Lighter Ingredients: Smart swaps like reduced-fat cheese and milk keep it balanced.
One-Pot Simplicity: Minimal cleanup and easy prep in under 40 minutes.
Perfect for Leftovers: Stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

Soup Base

• 1 tbsp olive oil or light butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chopped fresh broccoli (florets and some stem)
• 2 ½ cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk or low-fat milk
• ¾ cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp reduced-fat cream cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional, for depth)

Optional Toppings

• Extra shredded cheese
• Cracked black pepper
• Light croutons or a sprinkle of chopped green onions

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Add Broccoli and Simmer

Add chopped broccoli and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, or until broccoli is tender.

Blend the Base

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until mostly smooth, leaving a few chunks if desired. Alternatively, carefully transfer to a blender in batches and return to the pot.

Add the Creamy Elements

Stir in milk, shredded cheddar, and cream cheese. Cook over low heat, stirring until cheese melts and soup is smooth. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.

Serve

Ladle into bowls, garnish with optional toppings, and enjoy warm with crusty bread or a side salad.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 210 | Carbs: 12g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 13g | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g

Tips for Success

• Don’t Skip the Cream Cheese: Adds body and creaminess with fewer calories than heavy cream.
• Control Thickness: Add a splash of broth or milk if the soup is too thick after blending.
• Use Frozen Broccoli: A convenient substitute that works just as well.
• Blend to Taste: Fully purée for smoothness or leave some texture for heartiness.

Why This Recipe Works

• Flavorful but Balanced: Sharp cheddar and garlic boost taste without needing excess fat.
• Customizable: Add cauliflower, carrots, or even a touch of hot sauce to suit your preference.
• Kid-Approved: Creamy, cheesy, and full of familiar flavors—great for picky eaters too.

This cheesy broccoli and cheese soup proves that cozy comfort food can still be smart and satisfying. With simple ingredients, bold flavor, and a rich texture, it’s bound to become a regular in your meal rotation—whether you’re warming up on a chilly day or just craving something nourishing and delicious.