Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup. It reminds me of cold winter evenings, huddled under blankets and enjoying hearty meals with family. I remember the first time I made this soup; I was experimenting in the kitchen, trying to create something wholesome yet delicious. The moment the aroma of sautéed onions and garlic filled the air, I knew I was on to something special. With each spoonful, the creamy texture and rich flavors of sharp cheddar and fresh broccoli warmed me from the inside out. This soup quickly became a go-to recipe, especially on chilly days when all I want is something that feels like a hug in a bowl!

It’s not just about taste, though. The Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome meal. The combination of broccoli, beans, and creamy cashews creates a satisfying dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies without even realizing it! Every time I serve this soup, I see the smiles and hear the compliments, and it’s a joy to share something I love so much. So, if you’re looking for a recipe that’s not only easy to make but also warms the heart, you’ve found it in the Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Shopping List

When it comes to crafting the perfect Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup, using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key. Each component plays a vital role in creating a rich and flavorful experience. The main players, such as fresh broccoli and aged cheddar, work harmoniously to deliver that classic comfort food feel. Now let’s look at what you’ll need to gather for this delightful recipe.

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil – This healthy fat helps sauté the onions and garlic, forming a flavorful base.
• ½ yellow onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavors.
• 4 cups water – The base of the soup, bringing everything together.
• 1 (15 oz.) can white beans, rinsed and drained – Adds creaminess and protein.
• ½ cup cashews (not roasted or salted) – Creamy texture and richness without dairy.
• 1 pound broccoli florets, chopped – The star ingredient, packed with nutrients.
• 1 large carrot, shredded – Adds color and natural sweetness.
• Salt & black pepper, to taste – Essential for enhancing flavors.
• 4 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – Provides that classic cheesy flavor.

How to Prepare Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Preparing the Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a straightforward and enjoyable process. You’ll find that it allows you to fully engage with your ingredients, bringing out their best qualities. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful soup.

1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it begins to soften, about 5 minutes. You’ll notice the beautiful aroma filling your kitchen as the onions become translucent.
2. Next, add the garlic to the pot, stirring briefly until fragrant, which should take about one minute. This step is crucial, as you want to avoid burning the garlic.
3. In a blender, add the drained white beans, water, and cashews (if using). Blend until the mixture is very smooth. This creamy base will make your soup luscious.
4. Pour the blended mixture into the pot with the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir well to combine, and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
5. Once boiling, lower the heat and add the chopped broccoli and shredded carrot. Season with 2 teaspoons of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is very tender.
6. After simmering, carefully transfer roughly 3 cups of the soup to the blender. Make sure to include any large chunks of broccoli so that they can be blended into smaller pieces. Blend briefly, creating a textured consistency.
7. Return the blended soup back to the pot, stirring in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese has melted beautifully into the soup. Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt if needed, a little at a time.
8. To serve, ladle the Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup into bowls. You can garnish with extra cheese or a pinch of nutmeg for an added touch. Enjoy it warm!
9. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This soup reheats wonderfully!

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are countless ways to give the Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup your own twist! Here are some of my favorite adaptations. Let your creativity shine!

• Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It reheats beautifully.
• Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave out the cheddar cheese before freezing, as it doesn’t thaw well.
• Pairing: Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad to make it a complete meal.
• Vegan Option: Omit the cheddar cheese and add a teaspoon of lemon juice for a zesty flavor. Nutritional yeast makes a great dairy-free cheese substitute!
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat, or toss in some fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for added flavor.

What Complements This Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

When serving the Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup, there are various delicious accompaniments to consider. Here are some ideas that will elevate your meal:

• Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough loaf is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Salad Pairings: A light, fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.
• Occasion: This soup is perfect for cozy family dinners, gatherings on chilly evenings, or even a comforting lunch.
• Seasonal Serving: Serve this soup during the winter months when fresh broccoli is in season for the best flavor and nutrition.
• Kids’ Favorite: Kids love this soup! It’s a great way to sneak in healthy veggies they might otherwise avoid.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only a comforting and delicious dish but also a fantastic way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your diet. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite. I encourage you to give it a try—you won’t be disappointed! Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a light lunch, this soup is perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients and enjoy the warm, wholesome goodness of this delightful recipe.

Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

The ultimate comfort food, this Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is creamy, cheesy, and packed with delicious nutrients. Perfect for a cozy evening, it’s a wholesome choice for an easy weeknight dinner. Treat yourself to a bowl tonight!

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Course Soups

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Blender
• Saucepan

Ingredients

  

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup yellow onion chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 4 cups water
• 1 can white beans rinsed and drained (15 oz.)
• ½ cup cashews not roasted or salted
• 1 pound broccoli florets chopped
• 1 large carrot shredded
• salt & black pepper to taste
• 4 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese shredded

Instructions

 

• Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat, and sauté the onion until it starts to soften, about 5 minutes.
• Add in the garlic and stir briefly, just until fragrant, about 1 more minute.
• Add the drained white beans to a blender, along with the water and cashews (if using). Blend until very smooth, then immediately add it to the pot, so the garlic won't burn.
• Add in the broccoli and shredded carrot, along with 2 teaspoons of salt and a 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper. Bring the liquid to a boil.
• Once the liquid is boiling, lower the heat and cover with a lid. Let the soup gently simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is very tender.
• Transfer roughly 3 cups of the soup to a blender, making sure to grab any large pieces of broccoli, so there won't be large chunks in the soup. Blend briefly, pulsing the broccoli into smaller pieces, but not blending until it's totally pureed.
• Return the blended soup to the pot, then add in the shredded cheese. Stir briefly, just until the cheese has melted, then adjust any seasoning to taste.
• Serve warm with any extra toppings you love, like extra cheese or a pinch of nutmeg. Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Notes

• Nutrition Tip: Nutrition information is for 1 of 4 servings, or approximately 1 1/2 cups of soup. This is automatically calculated and is just an estimate, not a guarantee.
• Vegan Option: For a vegan and dairy-free soup, omit the cheese and add a teaspoon of lemon juice and extra salt, to taste.
• Flavor Boost: You can add a pinch of nutritional yeast, if you’d like an extra cheesy flavor, too.

Keyword Broccoli Cheddar Soup, creamy broccoli soup, Healthy Soup Recipe, Vegetarian Soup

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Meet Eva Sterling

I have a restless palate and I love that our blog covers such a wide range of food. I am always excited to cook something we haven’t tried before. I jump into every cooking session with enthusiasm, ready to chop, sauté, bake, or grill. I love the collaborative energy of our kitchen we all learn from each other, and that makes every dish we publish better.