Campbell’s Cream of Broccoli Soup has long been a household favorite. Whether enjoyed as a quick meal on a busy day or paired with a freshly baked loaf of bread, this soup is the epitome of comfort. With its creamy, velvety texture and rich, savory flavor, it offers a perfect balance between hearty vegetables and smooth, delicious broth. But did you know that making this iconic soup from scratch is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding? Whether you’re looking for a way to elevate the taste of store-bought versions or recreate something truly homemade, this recipe will guide you step-by-step through the process.
Campbell’s Cream Of Broccoli Soup Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic rendition of the classic Campbell’s cream of broccoli soup, but with some twists that allow you to enjoy it in its freshest form. It’s an easy recipe, with only a few basic ingredients, but the flavor is anything but simple.
Ingredients Needed
- Broccoli Florets (4 cups): The star of the dish! Broccoli is packed with nutrients, and when it’s simmered and blended into a creamy soup, it creates a velvety texture and fresh, earthy flavor.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds a rich depth of flavor to the soup, helping it reach that creamy consistency.
- Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Onion provides a savory base and enhances the overall richness of the soup.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): The aromatic garlic adds a burst of flavor that makes the soup fragrant and flavorful.
- Chicken Broth or Vegetable Broth (4 cups): A good broth is essential for a soup’s depth of flavor. Chicken broth is the traditional choice, but vegetable broth makes this recipe vegan-friendly.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): This creates the creamy texture, giving the soup its smooth, luxurious mouthfeel. You could substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Along with the cream, the milk balances out the richness and creates a velvety texture.
- Flour (2 tablespoons): Used to create a roux, which thickens the soup and gives it body.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Seasoning is key to bringing out the best in the ingredients.
Cooking Instructions
Prep Your Veggies
Start by washing your broccoli and cutting it into small florets. Chop the onion finely and mince your garlic. This makes the cooking process smoother, as everything will be ready to go when you need it.
Sauté The Aromatics
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it softens, about 3-4 minutes. Once the onion is translucent, throw in the garlic and sauté for another minute, letting the aroma fill your kitchen.
Make The Roux
Sprinkle in the flour and stir it well with the onions and garlic. Cook the mixture for about 2 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t burn, to form a light roux. This step is essential for thickening the soup and adding richness.
Add The Broth
Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer.
Add Broccoli
Toss in your chopped broccoli florets. Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, until the broccoli becomes tender.
Blend The Soup
Once the broccoli is soft, use an immersion blender to purée the soup directly in the pot. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. You can leave it slightly chunky or blend until smooth, depending on your preference.
Stir In Dairy
Once the soup is blended, pour in the heavy cream and milk. Stir well to combine. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.
Season And Serve
Taste the soup and add salt and pepper to your liking. Once seasoned, ladle the soup into bowls, serve hot, and enjoy the creamy goodness.
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this soup plays a critical role in achieving the final flavor and texture:
- Broccoli: A nutrient powerhouse, packed with vitamins K and C, fiber, and antioxidants. The broccoli not only serves as the flavor foundation but also makes the soup incredibly healthy. For the best taste and texture, use fresh broccoli instead of frozen.
- Butter: The richness of butter provides a base for the roux, which is integral for creating a silky texture. It also enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables.
- Garlic and Onion: These aromatics are crucial for building the base of flavor. Garlic’s pungent, savory profile and the sweetness of onion make the soup complex and well-rounded.
- Heavy Cream and Milk: These ingredients combine to create the creamy, dreamy texture of the soup. The cream offers richness, while the milk lightens it up just a touch. If you’re looking for an even lighter option, you can try substituting with almond or oat milk.
- Broth: Whether you opt for chicken or vegetable broth, this liquid base provides depth and umami, balancing the richness of the cream and butter.
Expert Tips
- Use Fresh Broccoli: While frozen broccoli works in a pinch, fresh broccoli delivers the best texture and flavor. If possible, buy organic broccoli for a cleaner taste.
- Adjust the Thickness: If you like your soup thicker, add a little more flour to the roux or reduce the amount of liquid. If you prefer a thinner soup, add more milk or broth.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter, use vegetable broth, and swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream for a completely plant-based version.
- Blending Tip: If you don’t have an immersion blender, make sure to let the soup cool slightly before transferring it to a regular blender. This will prevent splattering.
Recipe Variations
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Cheesy Broccoli Soup
Add about 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the soup when you stir in the cream and milk. This will create a rich, cheesy version of the classic soup that’s absolutely mouthwatering.
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Spicy Broccoli Soup
If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of red pepper flakes while the soup is simmering. For an even bolder flavor, a dash of hot sauce can be mixed in at the end.
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Broccoli And Potato Soup
Add some diced potatoes to the soup for a heartier version. The potatoes will blend into the soup, thickening it and adding extra creaminess.
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Herbed Broccoli Soup
Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even a handful of spinach to the mix for a fresh, herbal flavor that elevates the soup.
Final Words
Making Campbell’s Cream of Broccoli Soup at home is a wonderful experience that brings out the best in simple, everyday ingredients. The beauty of this soup lies in its ability to be both comforting and nourishing at the same time. The velvety, smooth texture pairs perfectly with a slice of crusty bread, and it’s a great addition to any meal, from a light lunch to a hearty dinner.