Broccoli Cheddar Lightened Soup

Name: Broccoli Cheddar Lightened Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups broccoli florets; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative); 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean Eating Recipes

Enjoy a lighter take on a classic comfort food with this Broccoli Cheddar Lightened Soup, perfect for cozy nights.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-01T21:26:30.347Z

This Broccoli Cheddar Lightened Soup is a delightful and healthier version of the traditional recipe. With fresh broccoli and a creamy cheddar base, it’s satisfying and nutritious.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture with a lighter calorie count
Packed with nutritious broccoli for added health benefits
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

      

A Comforting Classic Reimagined

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a beloved favorite, often enjoyed as a hearty meal on chilly evenings. This lightened version captures all the comforting flavors of the original while significantly reducing the calorie content. By using wholesome ingredients like fresh broccoli and low-fat milk, you can indulge without the guilt. It's a perfect choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while still enjoying their favorite dishes.

The creamy texture of this soup is achieved without heavy cream, making it a fantastic option for anyone who is mindful of their dietary choices. Instead, the combination of blended broccoli and milk creates a delightfully smooth consistency that satisfies cravings for rich and hearty foods. Each spoonful is a warm hug in a bowl, bringing both comfort and nourishment.

Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli

Broccoli is not just a delicious vegetable; it is also packed with essential nutrients that contribute to your health. This green superfood is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, which help support the immune system and promote overall wellness. Incorporating broccoli into your diet can aid digestion, improve heart health, and even provide anti-inflammatory benefits.

In this soup, the broccoli is the star ingredient, showcasing its vibrant flavor and numerous health benefits. The blending process retains much of its nutritional value, ensuring that you not only enjoy a tasty meal but also nourish your body. By adding broccoli to your diet in this enjoyable form, you can encourage both children and adults to eat more vegetables.

Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal

For busy weeknights, having quick and easy recipes on hand is essential. This Broccoli Cheddar Lightened Soup can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect solution for families on the go. With minimal prep time and simple steps, you can have a delicious, homemade meal ready to serve in no time.

Moreover, this soup can also be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you want to add extra vegetables, adjust the cheese level, or even spice it up with some red pepper flakes, the possibilities are endless. It's a versatile recipe that encourages creativity in the kitchen while still being quick and convenient.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups broccoli florets
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking for a smooth process!

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Cook the Broccoli

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

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is.

Add Milk and Cheese

Stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese or broccoli if desired. Enjoy your lighter broccoli cheddar soup!

Feel free to customize the soup with your favorite herbs or spices!

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! This Broccoli Cheddar Lightened Soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply transfer the cooled soup into an airtight container and place it in the fridge. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore its creamy consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and it can last for up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it on the stove, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Pairing Suggestions

To enhance your meal, consider pairing the Broccoli Cheddar Lightened Soup with a fresh side salad or a slice of whole-grain bread. A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the creamy soup perfectly, adding a refreshing crunch to your meal. Whole-grain bread, on the other hand, offers a hearty side that can be dipped into the soup, making for a satisfying dining experience.

For a more indulgent option, you might enjoy a grilled cheese sandwich alongside your soup. Using whole-grain bread and a lighter cheese can keep the meal balanced while still delivering the comfort of a classic pairing. Whichever you choose, these sides will elevate your soup experience.

Variations to Try

Don't hesitate to experiment with different variations of this Broccoli Cheddar Lightened Soup. Incorporating other vegetables such as carrots, cauliflower, or spinach can add a new dimension of flavor and nutrition. Each vegetable brings its unique taste and benefits, allowing you to customize the soup to your liking.

For added protein, consider stirring in some cooked chicken or white beans. This not only makes the soup more filling but also boosts its nutritional profile. You can also experiment with various cheese types, such as a smoky cheddar or a sharp gouda, to give the soup a different flavor twist. The versatility of this recipe makes it fun to adapt according to what's in your fridge or your taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ How can I make this soup dairy-free?

Substitute the milk with a dairy-free alternative and use dairy-free cheese.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Carrots and cauliflower are great additions to enhance flavor and nutrition.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.