Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

There's something deeply comforting about a bowl of broccoli cheddar soup—the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth on a chilly day. This lightened version honors that classic richness while bringing a fresh, wholesome twist with the addition of Greek yogurt. Every spoonful delivers tender broccoli florets swimming in a velvety cheddar base, made all the more satisfying knowing it's nourishing your body without the heaviness. It's the perfect balance of indulgence and mindful eating, proving that comfort food can be both delicious and good for you.

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What makes this soup truly special is how the Greek yogurt transforms the texture—adding a subtle tang that beautifully complements the sharp cheddar while keeping each serving at just 230 calories. The aromatic base of sautéed onion, carrot, and celery creates layers of flavor, while the smoked paprika adds an unexpected depth. Whether you're looking for a satisfying lunch, a cozy dinner, or a make-ahead meal for busy weeknights, this soup delivers on all fronts.

Ingredients

• 1 large head broccoli (about 500 g), cut into florets
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 4 cups (960 ml) low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 cup (240 ml) low-fat milk
• 1 cup (120 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 3/4 cup (180 g) plain Greek yogurt (2% or full-fat recommended)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery; sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 1–2 minutes until no dry flour remains.

Step 3: Add the Broth

Gradually add vegetable broth while stirring, ensuring the mixture stays smooth.

Step 4: Simmer with Broccoli

Add broccoli florets, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 12–15 minutes until the broccoli is very tender.

Step 5: Blend Until Smooth

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth, or transfer to a blender in batches and return to the pot.

Step 6: Add Milk and Cheese

Stir in milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook over low heat, stirring, until cheese is melted and soup is creamy (do not boil).

Step 7: Finish with Greek Yogurt

Remove from heat and whisk in Greek yogurt until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 8: Serve

Serve hot, garnished with extra cheddar or a dollop of yogurt if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

The key to achieving the perfect creamy texture is removing the soup from heat before adding the Greek yogurt. This prevents curdling and ensures a silky-smooth finish. When blending hot soup, always work in batches if using a countertop blender, and leave the lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape. For even more flavor depth, consider roasting the broccoli florets in the oven for 10 minutes before adding them to the soup—this brings out their natural sweetness and adds a subtle caramelized note to the final dish.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This versatile soup welcomes creative adaptations to suit your taste and dietary needs. For a chunkier texture, reserve a handful of broccoli florets before blending and stir them in at the end for added bite. Swap cheddar for a blend of cheeses such as Gruyère or smoked gouda, or use reduced-fat options to further lighten the soup. For a gluten-free version, substitute flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free blend—just mix it with a bit of cold broth before adding to prevent clumping. You can also boost the protein content by stirring in cooked white beans or chickpeas, or add cauliflower florets alongside the broccoli for extra vegetables.

Serviervorschläge

This soup shines as a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments takes it to the next level. Serve with crusty whole-grain bread or a warm baguette for dipping, or top with toasted croutons for added texture and crunch. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the soup's richness. For a more substantial meal, pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich made with the same sharp cheddar. Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of extra cheese, a dollop of Greek yogurt, crispy bacon bits (for non-vegetarians), or fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

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This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup proves that lighter doesn't mean less flavorful. Each bowl is a testament to how thoughtful ingredient choices can transform a beloved classic into something that nourishes both body and soul. Whether you're cooking for your family on a weeknight or preparing a batch for meal prep, this soup delivers the comfort you crave with the nutrition you need. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure, wholesome comfort.

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