When the chill in the air finally hints that fall’s arrived—or you’ve just had one of those days—this Cream Of Broccoli Soup Recipe hits the spot. It’s smooth, creamy, and tastes like a warm hug in a bowl. If you’ve been hunting for an easy weeknight dinner that feels both cozy and nourishing, you’ve found it.
As a mom of three growing kiddos, I’ve learned that the best dinners are the ones that comfort the soul without creating a mountain of dishes. This broccoli soup checks all the boxes—simple, satisfying, and full of goodness.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cream Of Broccoli Soup Recipe
This soup is the definition of comfort meets convenience. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your meal rotation:
- It’s ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
- Uses simple pantry staples (nothing fancy or hard to pronounce).
- You can make it vegetarian with just one swap.
- It freezes beautifully—ideal for meal prep days.
What Does Cream Of Broccoli Soup Taste Like?
Imagine the velvety richness of a cream soup, but lighter and fresher, thanks to the natural flavor of broccoli. It’s slightly sweet from sautéed onions, a touch garlicky, and perfectly balanced with a creamy finish. My husband calls it “liquid comfort,” and honestly, he’s not wrong.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Cream Of Broccoli Soup
Let’s talk ingredients—because the beauty of this Cream Of Broccoli Soup Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each item plays a role in creating that cozy, creamy texture and comforting flavor we all crave on a cool day. Below, I’ll walk you through the lineup and share why these ingredients make all the difference (plus a few tips to tweak them to your liking).
- Butter (2 tablespoons)
Start with real unsalted butter—it’s the foundation of flavor here. When melted, it gently caramelizes the onions and garlic, adding depth and richness to your soup base. If you prefer a lighter option, olive oil works well too, but butter gives that classic, velvety mouthfeel. For a dairy-free twist, plant-based butter substitutes blend beautifully without compromising taste. - Onion (1 large, diced)
This humble ingredient brings natural sweetness and warmth to the Cream Of Broccoli Soup Recipe. As it softens in the pot, the onion releases savory notes that enhance the earthy flavor of broccoli. Yellow onions are perfect for their balanced flavor, but sweet onions can add a subtle mellow tone if that’s your style. For more cozy soups that start with sautéed aromatics, try my Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe. - Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
Garlic is the unsung hero here—it adds that unmistakable homemade flavor that brings the whole soup to life. Mince it finely so it melts right into the broth, infusing every spoonful with gentle warmth. If you’re a garlic lover (guilty as charged), add an extra clove for good measure. The aroma as it hits the pan is pure comfort. - Broccoli Florets (4 cups)
The heart and soul of the Cream Of Broccoli Soup Recipe. Fresh broccoli gives this dish its gorgeous green hue and nutrient-rich goodness. Cut the florets into smaller, even pieces to help them cook faster and blend smoother. If fresh broccoli isn’t available, frozen florets are a perfectly fine backup—no need to thaw them first. Looking for another way to enjoy broccoli? You’ll love my Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup, which uses the same vegetable in a heartier, cheesy form. - Chicken or Vegetable Stock (4 cups)
This is where the flavor deepens. Stock provides the savory backbone of the soup, enhancing the natural taste of the broccoli and onions. If you’re keeping things vegetarian or halal, go with a rich vegetable stock—it’ll keep the flavor bright yet balanced. A homemade stock will take it up a notch, but store-bought works just fine for busy nights. (Pro tip: low-sodium versions let you control the salt more easily.) For a slow-simmered soup using stock, check out my Golden Chicken Lentil Soup. - Heavy Cream (1 cup)
Here’s where the magic happens. Heavy cream transforms the soup from simple to luxurious, creating that smooth, silky texture that makes each spoonful feel indulgent. If you’d like a lighter version, try half-and-half or even unsweetened coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. The cream also helps mellow out the broccoli’s slight bitterness, balancing the flavors perfectly. - Salt (1 teaspoon) and Black Pepper (½ teaspoon)
Don’t underestimate these two—they’re the final touch that ties everything together. Salt enhances the natural sweetness of the onions and deepens the richness of the cream, while black pepper adds a subtle bite that keeps the soup lively. Always taste before serving—you might need a pinch more depending on your broth.
Optional Garnishes
This Cream Of Broccoli Soup Recipe loves a little flair on top. Try finishing each bowl with:
- A swirl of cream for that café-style look.
- A sprinkle of sharp cheddar for richness (my kids’ favorite).
- Chopped chives or parsley for a pop of freshness.
- Crunchy croutons or crispy roasted chickpeas for added texture.
If you enjoy experimenting with toppings, you’ll also love the creative garnishes in my Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe—another classic comfort dish.
Why These Ingredients Work Together
Each component in this Cream Of Broccoli Soup Recipe complements the others beautifully: butter and onion lay down a rich foundation, garlic adds depth, broccoli brings color and nutrition, and cream ties it all together with smoothness. The stock and seasoning elevate the flavor while keeping the dish balanced and comforting.
When combined, these simple ingredients create something truly special—an everyday soup that tastes restaurant-worthy, made right in your own kitchen.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cream Of Broccoli Soup Recipe
If you’ve been craving something warm, creamy, and deeply comforting, this Cream Of Broccoli Soup Recipe is just what your kitchen needs. Follow this step-by-step guide to turn simple ingredients into a velvety bowl of goodness. I’ll walk you through each stage, with practical tips and insights that make this process both foolproof and fun.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter foams slightly, add 1 diced onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent—about 5 to 7 minutes. This first step builds a flavorful foundation, giving your soup that signature cozy aroma.
As the onion cooks, you’ll notice a gentle sweetness developing. That’s exactly what you want—it sets the stage for the creaminess to come. If you enjoy soups that begin with this aromatic base, you’ll love my Hearty Cheesy Ground Beef Soup too—it uses the same technique to create deep, layered flavor.
Step 2: Add Garlic for Depth
Once your onions are softened, stir in 3 minced garlic cloves. Cook for about one minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. Keep the heat moderate—garlic burns quickly, and you don’t want a bitter taste sneaking into your soup.
This step-by-step technique of layering aromatics—first onion, then garlic—is a simple but powerful trick. It’s what gives this Cream Of Broccoli Soup Recipe that “homemade from scratch” taste that always impresses.
Step 3: Add the Broccoli and Stock
Next, toss in 4 cups of broccoli florets and pour in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable stock. Stir everything together, ensuring the florets are fully submerged in the liquid. Turn up the heat and bring it all to a gentle boil.
Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender enough to break apart easily with a spoon. The stock infuses the broccoli with savory flavor while softening it for blending.
If you prefer a plant-based version, you can use vegetable stock instead. I love how this mirrors the approach I use in my Slow Cooker Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup, where simmering the ingredients slowly brings out every bit of flavor.
Step 4: Blend Until Silky Smooth
Now for the fun part! Once the broccoli is tender, it’s time to blend. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. This gives you more control over texture—whether you want it silky or slightly chunky.
If you don’t have an immersion blender, no worries. Carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Fill it only halfway, cover loosely to let steam escape, and blend until smooth. Pour each batch back into the pot when finished.
This step-by-step blending process transforms your mixture into that classic creamy texture that defines a good Cream Of Broccoli Soup Recipe. If you like blending soups, try my Creamy Tuscan Ravioli Soup next—it’s another recipe that becomes magic once pureed.
Step 5: Stir in the Cream and Seasonings
With your soup now smooth, lower the heat and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix gently until everything is well combined.
The cream adds richness and helps balance the slight earthiness of the broccoli. Taste as you go—this is your moment to adjust the seasoning. Add a bit more salt if needed, or even a pinch of nutmeg for warmth (a little secret that elevates creamy soups).
For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or a plant-based cream. This is a great step to personalize based on your preferences—much like in my Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe, where you can also control the level of creaminess to suit your taste.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish with Flair
Once your Cream Of Broccoli Soup Recipe reaches that perfect velvety consistency, it’s time to ladle it into bowls. Top each serving with a swirl of cream, a sprinkle of sharp cheddar, or chopped chives for a pop of color. For crunch, add homemade croutons or roasted chickpeas.
If you’re serving it for guests or a family dinner, a simple garnish goes a long way—it turns a humble bowl of soup into a restaurant-worthy dish. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or even a side of Cozy One-Pot Ravioli Soup for a complete, satisfying meal.
Step 7: Store and Reheat the Right Way
Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm gently over medium-low heat while stirring occasionally—avoid boiling to maintain that luscious texture.
This step-by-step storage method ensures your soup stays creamy and delicious even days later. I often double the batch just to freeze half for busy weeks—it reheats beautifully and saves dinner in a pinch.
Final Step: Enjoy the Comfort You Created
And there you have it—a creamy, nourishing, and deeply satisfying Cream Of Broccoli Soup Recipe, made with care and just a few simple steps. Whether it’s a quiet lunch, a family dinner, or meal prep for the week, this soup brings warmth to every table.
If this recipe made your kitchen smell like heaven (and I suspect it did), you’ll also enjoy exploring my collection of creamy soups—especially the Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup for another restaurant-style favorite made at home.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Cream Of Broccoli Soup
- Thicker texture? Use less broth or simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
- Lighter version: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or oat milk.
- Boost the flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a handful of shredded cheddar for a richer taste.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for 2 months.
- Reheat gently: Warm over low heat to keep that creamy texture intact—don’t boil it.
(Confession time: this soup once saved dinner when I forgot to thaw anything. I tossed together what I had, and voila—my kids declared it “green gold.”)
Storage for Cream Of Broccoli Soup
Let the soup cool completely before storing. Refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze flat in a zip bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently over medium-low heat.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! Just use olive oil instead of butter and plant-based cream or coconut milk.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, it works perfectly—no need to thaw first.
What can I serve with it?
Crusty bread, a light salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! This soup freezes wonderfully and tastes even better the next day.
Conclusion
This Cream Of Broccoli Soup Recipe is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few ingredients and one pot, you can have a creamy, wholesome meal that soothes the soul and warms the heart.
If you loved this recipe, check out other cozy favorites like Cheesy Vegetable Chowder or Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
So grab your favorite pot and let’s make dinner magic—simple, soothing, and oh-so satisfying.
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Print
Cream Of Broccoli Soup Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort in a Bowl
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cream Of Broccoli Soup Recipe is the ultimate comfort food – rich, creamy, and full of delicious broccoli flavor. It’s easy to make at home and perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or soothing rainy day lunches.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large onion – diced
- 3 cloves garlic – minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the broccoli florets and chicken or vegetable stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until broccoli is very tender.
5. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy, or carefully transfer to a blender in batches.
6. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with extra cream, shredded cheddar cheese, or chopped chives if desired.
Notes
For a thicker, heartier soup, reduce the amount of broth. Swap in low-fat or plant-based milk for a lighter version. Add toppings like crispy bacon, croutons, or pesto to enhance flavor.
