On brisk evenings, nothing satisfies like a bowl of Cream of Broccoli Soup, gently enriched with potato and finished with a swirl of cream. Blending the vegetables until silky smooth gives it a luxurious texture, making it a comforting homemade choice for weeknight dinners. Ready in under an hour, this cozy classic feels both nourishing and deeply satisfying.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy .
Ingredients for Cream of Broccoli Soup
For the soup
- Unsalted Butter – Just a touch to build that rich, savory base.
- Olive Oil – A good quality one to add depth to the flavor.
- Yellow Onion – Finely chopped, as it’s the perfect aromatic to start things off.
- Garlic – Minced for that unmistakable warmth and fragrance.
- Broccoli Florets – Chopped into small pieces so they cook down beautifully.
- Russet Potato – Peeled and diced to thicken the soup and add creaminess.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Keeps the soup flavorful without being too salty.
For the finishing touches
- Whole Milk – Adds a smooth, velvety texture to the soup.
- Heavy Cream – For that indulgent richness you’ll love.
- Kosher Salt – Just enough to enhance all the flavors.
- Black Pepper – A subtle kick to balance everything out.
- Ground Nutmeg – A pinch for a hint of warmth and complexity.
Cook Time for Cream of Broccoli Soup Recipe
I love how this creamy broccoli potato soup comes together so quickly.
It’s one of those easy cream of broccoli dishes that feels fancy but fits right into a busy schedule.
You’ll be ladling out bowls of this savory blended soup with garlic and nutmeg in less than an hour.
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
For more inspiration on quick and healthy meals, browse my collection of healthy soup recipes.
How to Make Creamy Broccoli Potato Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon.
You’ll know it’s ready when the onion is softened and translucent.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Wait until the garlic is fragrant but not browned—this keeps our silky smooth broccoli and onion chowder from turning bitter.
Step 3: Simmer the Vegetables
Stir in the broccoli florets, diced potato, and chicken broth.
Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
The broccoli and potato should be tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 4: Blend Until Smooth
Carefully transfer the soup to a blender, or use an immersion blender directly in the pot.
Puree until you achieve that rich and velvety pureed vegetable soup texture we all love.
If using a blender, work in batches and cover the lid with a towel to prevent splattering.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Return the pureed soup to the pot and stir in the milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Heat over low heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally with a rubber spatula, until warmed through.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed before serving your hearty stovetop broccoli and potato chowder.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that make this Cream of Broccoli Soup recipe even more special.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to switch things up, these simple tweaks never disappoint.
- Flavor Swap: Try swapping the heavy cream for coconut milk if you want a dairy-free version—it adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the broccoli.
- Diet Tweak: For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and whole milk. You’ll still get that luxurious texture without all the calories.
- Prep Fix: If you prefer some texture in your soup, reserve a handful of small broccoli florets before blending. Sauté them separately and use as a garnish for added crunch.
- Storage Tip: This soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove—avoid boiling to prevent the cream from separating. For more comforting soup recipes that reheat well, check out my full collection.
Remember, the best part of making broccoli soup with cream at home is making it your own.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different garnishes or spice levels until it feels just right for your table.
If you’re looking for more side dish ideas to serve alongside, my guide to vegetable side dishes has plenty of inspiration.
Cream of Broccoli Soup
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 medium russet potato
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Method
- Heat the butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Stir in the broccoli florets, diced potato, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli and potato are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Carefully transfer the soup to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids, and work in batches if necessary.
- Return the pureed soup to the pot and stir in the milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Heat over low heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
One of the things I love most about this Cream of Broccoli Soup recipe is how nourishing it feels from the very first spoonful.
Broccoli brings so much goodness to the table—it’s rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants that support overall wellness.
When blended with potato and finished lightly with cream, it becomes a comforting meal that satisfies both body and soul.
For a deeper look at broccoli health benefits, I often turn to trusted resources that break down its nutritional power.
This creamy broccoli potato soup is also a great way to enjoy more vegetables in a format that feels indulgent yet remains wholesome.
If you’re looking for other nutrient-packed ideas, my roundup of healthy soup recipes includes plenty of bowls that marry flavor and nutrition beautifully.
And for nights when you want to keep things light yet satisfying, this roasted broccoli and cauliflower makes a wonderful side or base for grain bowls.
A Lighter Version of Cream of Broccoli Soup
Sometimes you want all the comfort of a rich and velvety pureed vegetable soup without the heavy feel—and I totally get that.
Over the years, I’ve tweaked this recipe to fit different moods and dietary needs, and I’m happy to share my favorite lighter swaps with you.
Instead of heavy cream, try using half-and-half or even whole milk for a silkier, less dense finish.
You can also replace the russet potato with cauliflower florets—they blend up just as creamy but keep the soup lower in carbs.
For more ideas on lightened-up comfort food, take a peek at my collection of healthy fall dinner recipes.
And if you’re in the mood for another creamy yet light dish, this tom kha gai soup balances coconut milk with bright, citrusy notes for a revitalizing twist.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
Whenever I share recipes, I always think about friends and family who eat with certain dietary needs in mind—like my aunt who’s sugar-conscious and prefers low glycemic meals.
It’s important to me that everyone can gather around the table and enjoy food that fits their lifestyle.
For a diabetic-friendly version of this Cream of Broccoli Soup, you can skip the potato and use cauliflower as a thickener instead.
It still gives you that silky smooth broccoli and onion chowder texture without spiking blood sugar.
You can also replace the milk and cream with unsweetened almond or oat milk—just warm it gently to prevent curdling.
And if you like a hint of sweetness without any added sugar, a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika brings warmth and depth naturally.
How to Serve Cream of Broccoli Soup
I’ll never forget the first time I served this soup to my grandmother—she grew up on simple, hearty meals, and her smile told me everything.
Now, it’s a regular on our family table, especially during the crisp months when we all crave warmth and connection.
This Cream of Broccoli Soup pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty whole grain bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
For a heartier spread, try it alongside broccoli and cheese stuffed chicken or a light vegetable side dish like roasted carrots or steamed green beans.
I love topping each bowl with a drizzle of cream, a sprinkle of black pepper, or even a handful of toasted almond slivers for a little crunch.
However you choose to serve it, this easy cream of broccoli is always better when shared with someone you love.
Mistakes to Avoid
Over the years, I’ve learned that making a truly perfect Cream of Broccoli Soup means sidestepping a few common kitchen hiccups.
One mistake I often see is overcooking the broccoli—it can turn your silky smooth broccoli and onion chowder into a muted, dull-green bowl with a sulfurous aroma.
I always add the florets toward the end and cook just until fork-tender to preserve that vibrant color and fresh flavor.
Another pitfall is blending the soup while it’s too hot, which can lead to messy splatters or even a burnt tongue—trust me, I’ve been there!
Let it cool for a few minutes, and use an immersion blender right in the pot for the easiest, safest puree.
And don’t skip toasting your garlic and spices—it makes such a difference in building a savory blended soup with garlic and nutmeg that feels deeply flavorful.
For more tips on perfecting soups and stews, peek at my guide to homemade soup recipes and these comforting soup recipes I swear by.
And if you’re curious about other common cooking missteps, soup culinary history shows how techniques have evolved to help us avoid them today.
Every time I make this easy cream of broccoli, I remember my first attempt—a little too thick, a touch underseasoned—but even then, my family smiled and asked for seconds.
How to Store Cream of Broccoli Soup
My grandmother always said soup tastes even better the next day, and this Cream of Broccoli Soup is no exception.
I love making a big batch on Sundays so we have wholesome lunches ready for the week ahead.
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container—it’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to four days.
If you’d like to freeze it, skip the dairy and cream additions until you reheat.
Portion the soup into freezer-safe jars or bags, leave a little room for expansion, and it’ll keep beautifully for about three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove, stirring in a splash of cream or milk to bring back that rich and velvety pureed vegetable soup texture.
For more make-ahead meal ideas, check out my healthy fall dinner recipes and this cozy chicken soup recipe that stores just as well.
Try This Cream of Broccoli Soup Yourself
I’ll never forget the first time my niece tried this soup—she’d always turn her nose up at anything green, but one spoonful changed everything.
Now she asks for it whenever she visits, and it makes my heart so full to see her enjoy something so nourishing.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just need a little weeknight comfort, this easy cream of broccoli is waiting to become a new favorite in your kitchen too.
And if you love this recipe, I know you’ll adore these other tried-and-true dishes from my kitchen:
Mexican Sweet Potato Chicken Soup – A lightly spiced, warming bowl with a touch of lime and cilantro.
Sweet Potato Chicken Soup – Hearty, wholesome, and packed with cozy autumn flavors.
Tom Kha Gai Soup – Creamy Thai coconut soup with bright, citrusy notes and tender chicken.
Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken – A satisfying main that pairs perfectly with a light soup.
Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower – Simple, crispy, and ideal for busy nights.
Vegetable Side Dishes – A roundup of my go-to veggie sides for any meal.
However you choose to enjoy it, I hope this Cream of Broccoli Soup brings a little warmth and joy to your table.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to make cream of broccoli soup at home?
It’s easier than you think! Sauté onion and garlic, simmer with broccoli and potato, then blend until smooth. Finish with a touch of cream and your favorite seasonings. This creamy broccoli potato soup comes together in about 30 minutes and tastes so much better than any canned version.
Does Campbell’s still make cream of broccoli soup?
As far as I know, Campbell’s still produces their classic canned cream of broccoli soup. But once you try this homemade version, with fresh ingredients and no preservatives, you might not go back to the canned aisle! There’s nothing like the flavor of a from-scratch broccoli soup with cream.
What are common mistakes making broccoli soup?
Overcooking the broccoli is a big one—it can make your soup bitter and dull-colored. Also, blending while too hot can be messy and unsafe. And don’t forget to season properly! A little nutmeg or black pepper at the end lifts the whole bowl. For more pro tips, explore my creamy soup recipes collection.
How healthy is cream of broccoli soup?
It can be very nutritious! Broccoli is rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Using fresh ingredients and controlling the cream makes this a wholesome choice. For a lighter version, try swapping cauliflower for potato or using milk instead of heavy cream.
More Cozy Soup Recipes You’ll Love
If this creamy broccoli soup warmed your heart, you have to try these other comforting bowls.
Mexican Sweet Potato Chicken Soup – Spiced with cumin and topped with fresh avocado.
Sweet Potato Chicken Soup – Hearty, sweet, and savory all in one spoonful.
Tom Kha Gai Soup – A Thai-inspired coconut broth that feels like a hug.
Classic Chicken Soup – The timeless remedy for chilly days and stuffy noses.
Butternut Squash Soup – Velvety smooth with a hint of maple and rosemary.
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup – Perfect for dipping grilled cheese on a rainy afternoon.
