Lightened-Up Broccoli Cheese Soup
Total Time
45 mins
Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
40 mins
Rating
4.6 out of 5 stars
(7)
Ingredients
4 to 6 servings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium white onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 medium russet potato (about 8 ounces), peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 pound frozen broccoli florets
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper
- optional toppings: oyster crackers or croutons, extra shredded cheese and/or sliced green onions
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Preparation
Step 1
Heat oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add onion and carrots and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the garlic and sauté for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 2
Add the vegetable broth, potato, smoked paprika and stir to combine. Continue cooking until the soup reaches a simmer. Then reduce heat to medium-low (or whatever temperature is needed to maintain a low simmer). Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are nearly tender. Stir in the broccoli and cook for 10 minutes, or until tender.
Step 3
Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. Or transfer the soup in batches to a traditional blender and purée until smooth.
Step 4
Stir in the cheddar cheese until it has completely melted. Taste the soup and season with plenty of salt and pepper, as needed.
Step 5
Serve warm with your desired toppings and enjoy!
Step 6
Save recipe for the next time?
Chef's notes
Instant Pot Instructions:
Combine the onion, carrots, garlic, veggie broth, potato, smoked paprika, and frozen broccoli florets in the bowl of an Instant Pot. Cover and pressure cook on high for 4 minutes, followed by a quick release. Continue on with steps 3-5.
Crock-Pot Instructions:
Combine the onion, carrots, garlic, veggie broth, potato, smoked paprika, and frozen broccoli florets in the bowl of a large slow cooker. Cover and slow cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the veggies are tender. Continue on with steps 3-5.
