Description
This Skinny Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a deliciously creamy, low-fat, and vegetarian-friendly recipe perfect for a comforting lunch or light dinner. Made with fresh broccoli, shredded carrot, and reduced-fat cheddar cheese, it offers rich flavors with fewer calories. The soup is easily customizable for a smoother or chunkier texture and reheats wonderfully.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 medium carrot, shredded
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup skim milk
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1 ½ cups reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Add Vegetables and Broth: Add the chopped broccoli florets and shredded carrot to the pot. Pour in the low-sodium broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes until the vegetables become tender.
- Thicken Soup: In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch into the skim milk until smooth. Pour this mixture into the simmering soup and continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent lumps and help the soup thicken.
- Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the soup is smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and an optional pinch of nutmeg to enhance the flavors.
- Blend (Optional) and Serve: For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup; alternatively, leave it chunky for more texture. Serve the soup warm and enjoy.
Notes
- For extra creaminess without added fat, add a peeled small potato while simmering and blend it into the soup.
- This soup reheats well, making it an ideal light lunch option.
