Broccoli Soup Frozen Broccoli Recipe

Broccoli soup is one of those comforting meals that feels like a big, warm hug on a chilly day. It’s rich in flavor, nourishing, and versatile. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that allows you to sneak in a whole bunch of veggies while still tasting amazing. Whether you’re a die-hard broccoli fan or just looking for a way to make the most of frozen veggies, this broccoli soup recipe is a perfect way to enjoy the goodness of this green vegetable.

Now, don’t let the idea of making soup intimidate you. While it may seem like a lengthy process, this recipe is incredibly simple. Using frozen broccoli means you don’t have to worry about freshness and still get a delicious, nutritious result. You can whip it up in under an hour, and it’s the kind of dish you can make in batches and store for later – perfect for busy days.

Broccoli Soup Frozen Broccoli Recipe

Using frozen broccoli is a game-changer in this recipe. It’s an easy, convenient option for those who want to make broccoli soup without the hassle of fresh produce. And let’s be honest, sometimes frozen veggies can actually work better in soup than fresh ones, especially when it comes to getting that soft, creamy texture.

This recipe keeps things simple. The flavor comes from the broccoli itself, complemented by some light seasoning and creamy undertones. The frozen broccoli acts as the base, and we’re going to build a delicious, velvety soup from there.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make this rich and creamy broccoli soup:

• Frozen Broccoli (about 4 cups) – This is the star of the show. Using frozen broccoli ensures consistency and cuts down prep time.
• Olive Oil or Butter (2 tablespoons) – This gives the soup a silky smooth texture while adding richness to the flavor.
• Onion (1 medium, chopped) – A must for the base of any good soup. It adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – For that aromatic kick that pairs perfectly with broccoli.
• Vegetable or Chicken Broth (4 cups) – Adds a savory liquid base to the soup. You can use either broth depending on your dietary preferences.
• Heavy Cream (1/2 cup) – To make the soup extra creamy and indulgent. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute this with milk or a plant-based cream.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Basic seasonings to bring all the flavors together.
• Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon) – A splash of lemon adds brightness and balances out the creamy richness.
• Shredded Cheese (optional, for garnish) – A sprinkle of cheese like cheddar can take the soup to the next level.

Cooking Instructions

Making this broccoli soup is as easy as it gets. Let’s walk through it step-by-step:

1. Prep The Ingredients

   Start by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. You don’t need to be super precise here – just aim for small, even pieces to ensure they cook quickly and evenly.

2. Cook The Onion And Garlic

   In a large pot, heat your olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. Add in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

3. Add The Frozen Broccoli

   Toss in the frozen broccoli. You don’t need to thaw it beforehand; just add it straight from the freezer. Let it cook for a few minutes until it starts to soften, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Add The Broth

   Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. The broccoli should be tender by now.

5. Blend The Soup

   Once the broccoli is soft, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until it’s smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender.

6. Finish With Cream And Seasoning

   Stir in the heavy cream and season the soup with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to bring all the flavors together.

7. Serve And Garnish

   Ladle the soup into bowls, and if you like, sprinkle with a little shredded cheese or some fresh herbs for added flavor and color. Serve hot!

Ingredient Insights

• Frozen Broccoli: While fresh broccoli is great, frozen broccoli offers more convenience without sacrificing nutrition. Freezing broccoli locks in all the vitamins and nutrients, so you’re still getting the full health benefits. Plus, it’s picked at peak ripeness, so you’re getting a quality product every time.
• Heavy Cream: While it’s tempting to use milk as a lighter alternative, heavy cream is what makes this soup luxuriously creamy. If you’re looking for a vegan alternative, coconut milk or cashew cream can work wonders in this recipe.
• Lemon Juice: A little acidity goes a long way when it comes to balancing out rich flavors. Lemon juice not only adds brightness, but it also helps cut through the heaviness of the cream and butter.

Expert Tips

1. Make It Thicker: For a thicker consistency, blend the soup for a bit longer or add a potato (peeled and diced) in the beginning stages. The potato will break down during cooking and thicken the soup naturally.
2. Use a Combination of Broths: If you’re looking for more depth of flavor, try using half vegetable broth and half chicken broth. The mix will give you that perfect savory base.
3. Add More Veggies: If you want to boost the nutritional value even further, toss in some additional vegetables like carrots or cauliflower. These blend nicely with broccoli and won’t overwhelm the soup.
4. Customize the Creaminess: For a lighter version, use low-fat milk or dairy-free cream alternatives. If you want something more decadent, try a combination of cream cheese and sour cream.
5. Boost the Flavor with Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil can really elevate the flavor of the soup. Simply add them in while the soup simmers for a fragrant, herby twist.

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Broccoli Soup: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese or Gruyère while the soup is still hot for a cheesy twist. This adds a lovely richness and gooey texture.
• Spicy Broccoli Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the soup a little kick. It complements the creaminess of the soup perfectly.
• Vegan Broccoli Soup: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and use olive oil instead of butter for a fully vegan version. You can also replace the cheese with a plant-based alternative.
• Broccoli and Potato Soup: Throw in a couple of peeled and diced potatoes along with the broccoli for an even heartier soup. The potatoes will add creaminess and extra body to the soup.

Final Words

Broccoli soup, made with frozen broccoli, is one of those dishes that’s as satisfying as it is simple. It’s a perfect weeknight meal or even a great dish to meal prep. The best part is that you can make it ahead of time and reheat it whenever you need something quick and comforting. Plus, with just a few basic ingredients, you can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste.