Delicious & Healthy Cream of Broccoli Soup: Your 2-Point Weight Watchers Favorite
Discover the ultimate kitchen staple that combines comfort, health, and incredible flavor: this easy-to-make Broccoli Cream Soup. Crafted with just a few simple, wholesome ingredients, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your culinary collection. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that comes together in as little as 10 minutes of active preparation, making it the perfect choice for those busy days when you crave something nourishing yet effortless.
What truly sets this 2-Point Weight Watchers friendly soup apart is its remarkable versatility. More than just a dinner option, it can transform into a light and invigorating lunch, an elegant starter for any meal, or even a guilt-free snack to curb those afternoon cravings. Imagine pouring a warm, steamy mug of this creamy broccoli delight, heating it in the microwave, and savoring every spoonful, much like you would a soothing cup of tea. Its comforting embrace and vibrant flavor make it an instant classic for any time of day.
Why This Creamy Broccoli Soup Will Become Your Go-To Recipe
There are countless reasons why this particular broccoli cream soup recipe stands out and should be a regular feature in your meal rotation. Let’s delve into what makes it so irresistible and beneficial:
1. Incredibly Quick and Effortless Preparation
In today’s fast-paced world, finding a meal that’s both healthy and quick is a true gem. This broccoli soup fits the bill perfectly. From start to finish, you can have a steaming pot of this deliciousness ready in approximately 25 minutes total time, with only about 10 minutes of active preparation. This efficiency is due to its simple ingredient list and straightforward cooking process. No complicated steps, no lengthy marinating – just wholesome ingredients transformed into a flavorful soup in no time, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or last-minute lunch preparations.
2. A Delicious Way to Boost Your Greens Intake
If you’re a broccoli enthusiast, or even if you’re looking for an enjoyable way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, this soup is a fantastic solution. Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. This creamy soup makes it incredibly palatable and enjoyable, helping you effortlessly meet your daily greens quota. It’s a smart and tasty strategy for eating healthier without feeling like you’re sacrificing flavor.
3. Weight Watchers Friendly and Calorie Conscious
For those mindful of their caloric intake or following a specific eating plan like Weight Watchers, this soup is a game-changer. At just 2 Weight Watchers points per serving, it offers incredible satisfaction and fullness without weighing you down. Its low-calorie, high-nutrient profile makes it an excellent choice for managing your weight while still enjoying rich and comforting meals. It’s proof that healthy eating can be truly delicious and incredibly satisfying.
4. Simple Ingredients, Rich Flavor
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few core ingredients—fresh onion, vibrant broccoli, savory broth, a touch of cornstarch for thickening, and skim milk for creaminess—you can create a soup that’s surprisingly rich and full of depth. The careful balance of flavors ensures a hearty and flavorful experience without the need for heavy creams or excessive fats, proving that less can indeed be more when it comes to taste and nutrition.
5. Unmatched Versatility for Any Occasion
This broccoli cream soup is incredibly adaptable. Serve it as a warm and inviting appetizer to kick off a dinner party, enjoy it as a fulfilling light meal with a side of crusty bread, or even pour it into a mug for a quick and comforting snack. Its universal appeal makes it suitable for almost any mealtime or craving. Plus, it’s an excellent make-ahead option. Prepare a large batch on the weekend, freeze it in individual portions, and you’ll have healthy, homemade meals ready whenever hunger strikes, saving you time and effort during the week.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Serving Size: About 2 cups (450 g.)
2 WW Points Per Serving. You can view the recipe on the WW Apphere. (WW login required.)
Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Broccoli Soup
Crafting this delightful broccoli soup requires a handful of common ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry or can easily find at any grocery store. The quality of your ingredients, especially the fresh produce, will truly elevate the final taste of your soup.
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon oil, (5 ml) – *Opt for a healthy oil like olive or avocado oil to sauté the aromatics and build the flavor base.*
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped, (about 1 cup, 150 g) – *A foundational ingredient for depth and sweetness.*
- 4 cups broccoli florets, (360 g) – *Fresh is best, but frozen can also be used effectively (see tips below).*
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, (960 ml) – *Choose low-sodium broth to control salt content.*
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, (8 g) – *Our secret to a creamy texture without heavy cream.*
- 1/4 cup cold water, (60 ml) – *Essential for creating a smooth cornstarch slurry.*
- 1 cup skim milk, (240 ml) – *Provides a velvety finish while keeping the soup light and healthy.*
- Salt and pepper to taste – *Season generously, adjusting to your preference.*
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make the Perfect Cream of Broccoli Soup
Follow these detailed steps to create a wonderfully creamy and flavorful broccoli soup that’s sure to impress:
Instructions:
- Prepare the Broccoli: Start by thoroughly washing your broccoli under cold running water. Carefully cut the broccoli head into small, uniform florets. If you’re using fresh broccoli, don’t discard the stems! Peel the tough, fibrous outer layer from the stems, then chop the tender inner part into small pieces. These stem pieces are just as nutritious and flavorful as the florets and will blend seamlessly into the soup, reducing food waste and adding to the broccoli goodness.
- Sauté the Onion: In a large, sturdy pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 teaspoon of your preferred oil over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion, stirring occasionally, until it turns translucent and begins to develop a delicate golden hue, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes. This crucial step is called “sweating” the onions; it softens them and releases their natural sugars, building a deep, savory, and slightly sweet base for the soup’s overall flavor profile.
- Cook the Broccoli: Add the prepared broccoli florets and chopped stems to the pot with the sautéed onion. Stir them together for a minute or two, allowing the broccoli to lightly cook and absorb some of the aromatic flavors from the softened onions. This brief sauté also helps to brighten the broccoli’s color and begin the softening process, contributing to a more flavorful final soup.
- Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring that the broccoli is mostly, if not fully, submerged in the liquid. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the broccoli simmer gently until it’s tender. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. You can easily test for doneness by piercing a floret with a fork; it should be soft enough to yield easily but not so mushy that it disintegrates.
- Thicken the Soup: While the broccoli is simmering, prepare your cornstarch slurry. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of cold water until you have a completely smooth mixture with no lumps. Once the broccoli is tender, slowly pour this slurry into the simmering soup, stirring continuously and vigorously to ensure even distribution and prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook the soup for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until you notice it has thickened slightly to your desired consistency. The cornstarch will activate and thicken the liquid as it heats.
- Blend the Soup: Carefully remove the pot from the heat and allow the soup to cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes. This is a crucial safety step when blending hot liquids. If using a standard blender, transfer the soup to the blender in small batches (never fill more than halfway) and vent the lid to allow steam to escape. Add the skim milk directly into the blender with the soup batches. Blend until the soup is completely smooth and wonderfully creamy. For a slightly heartier, chunkier texture, you can choose to blend only a portion of the soup and leave some tender broccoli pieces whole. If you have an immersion blender, this step becomes even easier; simply blend directly in the pot until smooth.
- Heat the Soup: Once blended to your preferred consistency, return the entire batch of smooth, creamy soup to the pot. Cook over low heat for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the soup to warm through gently without reaching a full boil again. This step ensures the soup is piping hot and ready to serve while preventing it from over-thickening or scorching.
- Season to Taste: Now is the time to perfect the flavor. Taste the soup and season it generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Start with a pinch of each, stir well, and then adjust according to your personal preference. Remember that broth can vary in sodium content, so always taste before adding too much salt.
- Serve: Ladle the hot, creamy Broccoli Cream Soup into warm bowls. For an added layer of texture and flavor, consider garnishing your soup. Popular toppings include crunchy toasted bread cubes or homemade croutons, a vibrant sprinkle of finely chopped fresh broccoli florets for a fresh bite, or a modest dusting of grated Parmesan cheese for a touch of savory richness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Enjoy your Broccoli Cream as a comforting appetizer or light meal, knowing you’ve created something delicious and wholesome from scratch.
Creative Variations and Healthy Substitutions for Your Broccoli Soup
While the classic broccoli cream soup recipe is perfect as is, it also serves as an excellent canvas for culinary experimentation. Don’t hesitate to personalize it with these delicious and healthy variations:
- Add a Gourmet Touch with a Mirepoix: For an even deeper and more complex flavor base, start your soup by preparing a traditional mirepoix. This involves finely chopping equal parts onion, carrot, and celery and sautéing them together until soft before adding the broccoli. The carrots and celery will introduce a subtle sweetness and earthy notes, enhancing the soup’s overall richness without adding significant calories or fat.
- Healthier Thickening Options Beyond Cornstarch: While cornstarch is an excellent quick thickener, you have other healthy alternatives. You can easily substitute it with a starchy vegetable like a potato. Simply peel and dice one medium potato, add it to the pot along with the broccoli and broth, and let it cook until very tender. Once blended, the potato will naturally thicken the soup, providing a wonderfully creamy texture without any added flavor. Another smart option for improving texture without altering taste is to blend in some zucchini. A medium zucchini, chopped and cooked with the broccoli, adds nutrients and helps create a silkier consistency when pureed.
- Indulge in Cheesy Goodness (Sensibly!): For those who appreciate a hint of cheese in their soup, adding a small amount of your favorite variety can elevate the flavor profile beautifully. A sprinkle of sharp cheddar for a tangy kick, or a dusting of grated Parmesan for a salty, umami note, can transform the soup into a more indulgent experience. To keep it healthy and Weight Watchers friendly, opt for a reduced-fat cheese or use a small quantity of full-fat cheese, savoring the richness it brings.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce during the simmering stage. This will introduce a subtle warmth that complements the broccoli beautifully.
- Fresh Herbs for Brightness: Elevate the fresh flavors by stirring in some chopped fresh herbs just before serving. Chives offer a delicate oniony note, while parsley provides a clean, green finish. A swirl of fresh dill can also add an unexpected, sophisticated twist.
Expert Tips and Tricks for the Best Cream of Broccoli Soup
Achieving the perfect creamy broccoli soup is simple with these insider tips and tricks, designed to maximize flavor and convenience:
- Don’t Skip Sautéing the Onions and Broccoli: This initial step is more than just cooking the vegetables; it’s about building a robust flavor foundation. Taking the time to sauté the onions until translucent and slightly browned, and then lightly cooking the broccoli with them, caramelizes their natural sugars. This process develops a depth of flavor that a simple boil just can’t achieve, making your soup much more delicious and complex. It’s a small effort that yields significant flavor dividends.
- Frozen Broccoli Works Wonders Too: Don’t let the absence of fresh broccoli deter you! Frozen broccoli florets are an excellent and equally nutritious alternative. They are typically flash-frozen at their peak freshness, preserving their vitamins and minerals. Simply add them directly to the pot with the sautéed onions; there’s no need to thaw them first. If you happen to have a bag of frozen mixed vegetables that includes broccoli and carrots, that works perfectly too, adding even more nutrients and a touch of color to your soup.
- Master the Make-Ahead and Freeze Strategy: This soup is a dream for meal preppers because it freezes beautifully. I often prepare a large batch, let it cool completely, and then freeze individual portions in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. This way, you always have a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal on hand. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply let it thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. A quick whiz with an immersion blender once reheated will restore its perfectly smooth and creamy texture, making it taste just like it was freshly made.
- Invest in an Immersion Blender: While a standard blender works, an immersion blender (also known as a stick blender) is a game-changer for creamy soups. It allows you to blend the soup directly in the pot, eliminating the need to transfer hot liquids in batches, which saves time and reduces cleanup. This tool makes achieving that silky-smooth consistency incredibly easy and safe.
- Achieve Creaminess Without Heavy Cream: The secret to this soup’s light yet luxurious texture lies in the combination of cornstarch and skim milk. Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent, giving the soup body, while skim milk provides a smooth, dairy-rich flavor without the high fat content of heavy cream. This smart substitution keeps the soup healthy and low in Weight Watchers points while delivering on that desirable creamy mouthfeel.
Broccoli Cream Soup is truly a recipe that embodies both simplicity and profound satisfaction. It’s not only healthy and easy to prepare but also provides a comforting warmth that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a devoted broccoli lover like me or simply searching for a new, wholesome soup to add to your culinary repertoire, this recipe is destined to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen.
Cream Of Broccoli Soup
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon oil, (5 ml)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped, (about 1 cup, 150 g)
- 4 cups broccoli florets, (360 g)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, (960 ml)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, (8 g)
- 1/4 cup cold water, (60 ml)
- 1 cup skim milk, (240 ml)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Prepare the Broccoli: Begin by washing and cutting the broccoli into florets. If you’re using fresh broccoli, make sure to peel the tough outer layer from the stems before chopping.
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Sauté the Onion: In a large pot, heat 1 teaspoon of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes. This step helps build a deep, savory base for the soup.
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Cook the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot with the sautéed onion. Stir them around for a minute or two, allowing the broccoli to absorb some of the flavors from the onion.
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Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, making sure the broccoli is fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the broccoli simmer until it’s tender, about 8-10 minutes. You can test the doneness by piercing a floret with a fork; it should be soft but not mushy.
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Thicken the Soup: While the broccoli is cooking, prepare a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of cold water until smooth. Once the broccoli is tender, slowly pour the slurry into the soup, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook the soup for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
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Blend the Soup: Remove the pot from heat and allow it to cool slightly. Carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches. Add the skim milk directly into the blender with the soup. Blend until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only a portion of the soup and leave some broccoli pieces whole.
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Heat the Soup: Once blended to your desired consistency, return the soup to the pot. Cook over low heat for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the soup to warm through without boiling.
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Season to Taste: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Start with a pinch of salt and pepper, then adjust according to your preference. Stir well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
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Serve: Ladle the Broccoli Cream into bowls and serve hot. For added texture, you can top the soup with toasted bread cubes, a sprinkle of fresh broccoli florets, or a small amount of grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info