Creamy Broccoli Soup

Name: Creamy Broccoli Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups broccoli florets; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Light & Balanced

I love making this Creamy Broccoli Soup on chilly days because it’s not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. The smooth, velvety texture combined with the vibrant flavors of fresh broccoli and garlic makes it a standout dish. It's perfect for a light lunch or as an elegant starter for dinner. In about 30 minutes, you can whip up a warm bowl that the entire family will enjoy. I've also added a touch of cream for richness, but you can easily adapt it for a lighter version.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:33:36.075Z

When I first made this Creamy Broccoli Soup, I never anticipated how packed with flavor it could be! I used fresh broccoli straight from the farmer's market, which made a huge difference in taste. Adding a hint of lemon juice at the end brightens the soup beautifully, contrasting with the creaminess and enhancing the natural flavors of the broccoli.

I've experimented with various herbs and spices, but I found that keeping it simple with just a bit of garlic and onion really allows the broccoli flavor to shine. The blending method ensures a silky smooth texture that everyone loves, making it perfect for any occasion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, velvety texture that's utterly comforting
Bright flavors of fresh broccoli elevate your experience
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights

Mastering the Blend

The blending process is crucial for achieving a smooth, creamy texture in your broccoli soup. If using a countertop blender, fill it only halfway to avoid overflow, as hot liquids can expand and splatter. Blend in batches if necessary, allowing the soup to cool for a minute before sealing the lid. This technique helps you avoid any mess and ensures an even consistency. Aim for a glossy finish, which indicates that the soup is well-blended and free of lumps.

If you prefer a bit of texture in your soup, consider blending only half of it and leaving the other half chunky. This adds a rustic feel and allows you to enjoy the bite of the broccoli florets. Just remember that if you go this route, be sure to taste and adjust your seasonings as the chunky part can absorb flavors differently.

Adjusting Richness and Flavor

The addition of heavy cream offers a luxurious richness to this soup, but it's not necessary for a delicious outcome. If you're looking for a lighter version, substitute the cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option or use half-and-half for a less rich alternative. Additionally, you can enhance the flavor profile by incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or dill during the simmering stage.

Don't shy away from the acid! Adding lemon juice not only brightens the flavor, but it also balances the creaminess. Start with the juice of half a lemon, and taste before adding more. If you're in a pinch, a splash of apple cider vinegar can also provide that needed acidity while maintaining the soup's overall integrity.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This creamy broccoli soup stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you're making it ahead, consider leaving out the cream until just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to ensure even heating without scorching.

Serving this soup with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a dollop of crème fraîche adds an enticing touch. For a complete meal, pair it with a hearty crusty bread or a light salad. You can also make it a full experience by adding croutons or toasted nuts for an added crunch, which contrasts beautifully with the creamy base.

Ingredients

Gather your fresh ingredients for this delicious soup!

Ingredients

4 cups broccoli florets
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

Once you have all your ingredients, you’re ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Let’s dive into the cooking process!

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the broccoli is tender, about 10 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a countertop blender in batches.

Finish with Cream

Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste. Heat gently for a few more minutes before serving.

Enjoy your warm, creamy broccoli soup!

Pro Tips

For added texture, sprinkle some toasted croutons or fresh herbs on top just before serving.

Ingredient Insights

Fresh broccoli is the star of this dish, providing not only vibrant color but also essential nutrients like vitamin C and fiber. When selecting broccoli, look for tightly closed florets with a rich green color. Avoid any yellowing, as this indicates overmature stalks, which can lead to a bitter flavor.

The choice of vegetable broth can dramatically affect the final taste of your soup. Opt for a low-sodium variety, as this allows you to control the saltiness, particularly when you’re adding lemon juice or cream. If you want to enhance the umami flavor, consider simmering the broth with dried mushrooms or adding a dash of soy sauce.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your soup ends up too thick after blending, simply add a little more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a few minutes to help reduce the liquid. Just keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking the broccoli, which can cause the flavor to diminish.

Should you find the flavor lacking after blending, taste and season conservatively with salt and pepper. Remember that cooking redistributes flavors, so always start with a little, then adjust gradually. If it’s too bland, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of Worcestershire sauce can add depth without overpowering the dish.

Scaling the Recipe

This creamy broccoli soup is easily scalable, making it a wonderful option for larger gatherings. To double the recipe, simply increase all the ingredients accordingly and use a larger pot for cooking. Cooking times may vary slightly, so be sure to check the tenderness of the broccoli as you approach the simmering stage.

For those entertaining less frequently, you can also freeze this soup. After it cools completely, transfer it to an airtight container, leaving some space for expansion. The soup can last up to three months in the freezer, just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just adjust the cooking time since it will cook faster.

→ How can I make this soup vegan?

Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a vegan cream alternative, and use vegetable broth.

→ What can I serve with the soup?

Pair it with a crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.