Name: Lightened Up Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 onion (diced); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon butter; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth; 4 cups low-fat milk; 12 ounces small fresh broccoli florets ((about 5 cups)); 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

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There’s something about a warm bowl of soup that feels like a cozy hug, especially on a chilly winter evening. The Lightened Up Broccoli Cheddar Soup is my go-to comfort food. I remember the first time I made it; the whole house filled with a delightful aroma, and it instantly felt like home. This soup is not only creamy and hearty but also a bit healthier than traditional recipes, making it perfect for those days when you crave something indulgent yet nourishing. I love serving it with crusty bread or a simple salad, and it always brings smiles to the table.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
15 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Cutting Board, Large Pot, Wooden Spoon, Saucepan

The Magic of This Lightened Up Broccoli Cheddar Soup

1. Heartwarming Comfort

Nothing beats the feeling of enjoying a steaming bowl of soup when the weather turns cold. The Lightened Up Broccoli Cheddar Soup wraps you in warmth, making it the ideal meal for any winter evening. I often find myself reaching for this recipe when I need a little boost.

2. Nutrient-Rich Ingredients

This soup is packed with healthy ingredients like broccoli and onions, which are not only good for you but also add great flavor. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and low-fat milk creates a creamy texture that satisfies without the guilt.

3. Easy to Prepare

One of the things I love about this soup is how simple it is to prepare. With just a few steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet fulfilling.

4. Family-Friendly

The Lightened Up Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a hit with my kids. They love the creamy texture and cheesy flavor, and I love that they’re getting their vegetables! It’s a win-win that makes meal times easier.

5. Versatile Recipe

This soup can be easily customized. You can add more vegetables or even some protein like shredded chicken if you want to make it more filling. It’s a blank canvas that adapts to your family’s taste.

6. Great for Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, they store well in the fridge and taste even better the next day! Just reheat and enjoy the comfort all over again. This soup truly stands the test of time and taste.

Essential Ingredients for Lightened Up Broccoli Cheddar Soup

The ingredients in this soup are a harmonious blend that contributes to its rich flavor and creamy texture. Each component plays a vital role, ensuring that every spoonful is packed with taste and nutrition. The key players are fresh broccoli, a medley of aromatic onions and garlic, and the creamy base of low-fat milk and sharp cheddar cheese. Together, they create a delightful balance that makes this soup irresistible.

1 onion, diced: A foundational flavor that adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
4 cloves garlic, minced: The aromatic essence that enhances the overall taste.
1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and a silky mouthfeel.
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This helps thicken the soup and gives it a creamy texture.
4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth: The base liquid that infuses flavor into the soup.
4 cups low-fat milk: Provides creaminess without too much fat.
12 ounces small fresh broccoli florets (about 5 cups): The star ingredient, offering nutrition and a vibrant color.
1 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances and balances the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: A hint of spice to elevate the soup.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds warmth and complexity to the flavor profile.
2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The key ingredient that brings richness and cheesy goodness.

Directions for Lightened Up Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Making the Lightened Up Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a straightforward process that brings all the ingredients together beautifully. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious soup ready to enjoy. Trust me; it’s easier than you think!

Start by placing a large stockpot over medium heat. Allow it to warm up before adding the butter. You’ll want it to melt slowly, creating a luscious base for your soup.
Add the diced onions and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté the mixture for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your soup.
Next, sprinkle in the flour, stirring well to coat the onions and garlic. This creates a roux that will help thicken your soup as it cooks.
Pour in the chicken broth or vegetable broth, along with the low-fat milk. Stir everything together, ensuring there are no lumps from the flour. This creates the creamy base for your soup.
Now, it’s time to add the star of the show: the broccoli florets. Toss them in along with the sea salt, cayenne pepper, and ground nutmeg. These spices will elevate the soup’s flavor profile.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. You’ll notice the soup bubbling beautifully, which means it’s almost ready to simmer. Keep an eye on it to prevent boiling over.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes. You want to cook it until the largest broccoli florets are tender. This is where the flavors meld together.
Finally, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. As it melts, it thickens the soup and adds that creamy, cheesy goodness we all love. Stir until fully melted.
Once everything is well combined and heated through, turn off the heat. Your delicious Lightened Up Broccoli Cheddar Soup is ready to be served!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Broccoli: Adding broccoli at the right time is crucial. You want it tender but still vibrant green, so keep an eye on the simmering time.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and onions will yield the best flavor. Frozen can work in a pinch, but fresh makes a difference.
Adjusting Thickness: If your soup is too thick, add a splash more of low-fat milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Cheese Selection: While sharp cheddar is great, you can experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.

Ways to Customize

Customizing the Lightened Up Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a fun way to make it your own. Here are some ideas to enhance your experience:

Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding shredded cooked chicken or beans.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with various cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a twist on flavor.
More Vegetables: Feel free to toss in other vegetables such as carrots or spinach for added nutrition.
Spice Levels: Adjust the cayenne to your preference. If you like it spicy, add a bit more, or if you prefer it milder, skip it altogether.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can add a lovely fragrance and flavor boost!

Perfect Matches for Lightened Up Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving the Lightened Up Broccoli Cheddar Soup is all about pairing it with the right accompaniments. Here are some great ideas to enhance your meal:

Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, making it a satisfying meal.
Salad Pairings: Serve alongside a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the soup.
Lunch or Dinner: This soup is versatile and can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner. It’s great for a cozy family meal or a simple lunch at home.
Special Occasions: Perfect for gatherings or winter holidays, it brings warmth and comfort to any table.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

FAQ

Yes, you can definitely use frozen broccoli if fresh isn’t available. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen broccoli tends to cook faster. Thaw it before adding to the soup for even cooking.

Leftovers of the Lightened Up Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture.

Absolutely! To make it vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, use vegan cheese, and opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The base flavor will still be delicious!

The Lightened Up Broccoli Cheddar Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or even a simple sandwich. It’s a versatile meal that works for lunch or dinner!

Conclusion

The Lightened Up Broccoli Cheddar Soup is truly a comforting and nourishing dish that brings warmth to any table. I encourage you to try making it and experience the delightful flavors and creamy texture for yourself. Enjoy it with family and friends, and let it warm your hearts on those chilly days.