Description
This Simple Cream of Broccoli Soup is a comforting, creamy recipe perfect for a cozy meal. Made with fresh broccoli florets, sautéed celery and onions, garlic, and potatoes, simmered in a flavorful broth and finished with rich cream, this soup combines hearty vegetables with a smooth texture. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with chicken or vegetable broth for a touch of variation.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 sticks celery, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
- 5-6 cups broccoli florets
- 1 Russet potato, peeled and diced
Liquids & Fats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream (or to taste)
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the olive oil and butter to a soup pot over medium-high heat. Sauté the chopped onion and celery for about 7-10 minutes until they start to lightly brown, releasing their flavors.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to infuse the aroma without burning it.
- Simmer Vegetables: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then add the Italian seasoning, broccoli florets, and diced potatoes. Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat to maintain a rapid simmer, cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar, and cook for 20-25 minutes until the potatoes and broccoli are tender. It’s fine if the broth doesn’t fully cover the broccoli.
- Blend Soup: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer in batches to a regular blender, allowing it to cool slightly before blending to avoid burns.
- Finish with Cream and Seasoning: Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper generously to taste. Serve hot for a creamy and satisfying soup experience.
Notes
- You can use either chicken broth or vegetable broth to keep the soup vegetarian.
- Adjust the amount of cream depending on your desired richness and texture.
- Allow the soup to cool slightly before blending to prevent splatter and burns.
- This soup can be garnished with shredded cheese, croutons, or fresh herbs if desired.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter and cream with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth.
