Skinny Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

If you’ve ever craved a comforting bowl of broccoli cheddar soup but wanted to keep things light, you’re in for a treat. This Skinny Broccoli Cheddar Soup takes everything you love about the classic—rich cheesy flavor, plenty of veggies, and luscious creaminess—while using clever swaps to make each spoonful satisfyingly guilt-free. It’s wholesome, easy, and loaded with cozy flavor, perfect for lunch or a weeknight dinner on a chilly evening.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this recipe is how it turns a handful of humble ingredients into something magical. Each addition serves a purpose, bringing flavor, richness, and those signature pops of color to your Skinny Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

• Olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics and adding a silky finish with healthy fats.
• Onion: Diced onion creates the savory foundation for the soup, adding sweetness and depth.
• Garlic: Minced garlic intensifies the flavor, making the soup wonderfully aromatic.
• Broccoli florets: Small, fresh broccoli pieces provide the main flavor and plenty of bright green color.
• Carrot: Grated carrot brings sweetness, extra nutrition, and a gorgeous orange hue.
• Low-sodium vegetable broth: Forms the flavorful base (and keeps things lighter), so be sure to pick a good-quality broth.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning the soup and enhancing all the vegetable flavors.
• Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that balances the richness of the cheese.
• Dry mustard powder: A secret ingredient that wakes up the cheddar and makes every bite pop.
• Smoked paprika (optional): Gives the soup a subtle smoky undertone you’ll love.
• Unsweetened almond milk (or low-fat milk): Lends creaminess with far fewer calories than heavy cream.
• Cornstarch mixed with water: This slurry is the trick for thickening your soup without guilt.
• Reduced-fat shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, offering bold cheesy goodness with less fat.

How to Make Skinny Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the diced onion and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until it turns soft and translucent—about 3 to 4 minutes. Toss in your minced garlic and let its fragrance bloom for another 30 seconds, being careful not to let it brown.

Step 2: Build Your Flavor Base

It’s time to load in the veggies! Add the chopped broccoli florets and grated carrot, followed by your vegetable broth, salt, black pepper, mustard powder, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika if you want that extra smoky flair. Give everything a good stir, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and cover the pot. Let it cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the broccoli is fork-tender and the carrots have softened into the broth.

Step 3: Cream and Thicken

Pour in your almond or low-fat milk, stirring well. To thicken the soup without all the cream, whisk together your cornstarch and water, then add it to the pot. Keep the heat on medium and stir often for 2 to 3 minutes, until the soup gains a slightly creamy consistency that clings to your spoon.

Step 4: Make It Cheesy

Reduce the heat to low and scatter in your reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese. Stir slowly and patiently, letting the cheese melt completely into the soup. This is where that classic Skinny Broccoli Cheddar Soup flavor shines—smooth, melty, and memorable!

Step 5: Blend (Optional) and Serve

If you like a silky texture, blend about half the soup using an immersion blender right in the pot. Or, if you crave more texture, leave it chunky! Taste and adjust seasoning, then ladle the soup into bowls while it’s piping hot.

How to Serve Skinny Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Garnishes

The finishing touches are everything. Sprinkle your Skinny Broccoli Cheddar Soup with a little extra shredded cheddar, a shower of chives, or even some toasted croutons for crunch. A dash of smoked paprika or a squeeze of lemon juice can heighten the flavor and make each bowl feel special.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs perfectly with a crusty slice of whole-grain bread, a crisp green salad, or a simple baked potato. For heartier appetites, serve it alongside a grilled cheese made with your favorite light bread and more sharp cheddar.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your soup in individual bread bowls for a restaurant-style twist. Mini mugs make adorable appetizers for a party, or you can pour your Skinny Broccoli Cheddar Soup over cooked rice or quinoa for a satisfying, wholesome meal-in-a-bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once the soup cools to room temperature, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making this Skinny Broccoli Cheddar Soup even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

Skinny Broccoli Cheddar Soup freezes beautifully! Pour leftovers into freezer-safe containers (leaving a little space at the top for expansion) and freeze for up to two months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Warm the soup gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring often to keep it creamy. If it thickens too much after being chilled, simply add a splash of milk or broth to bring it back to your perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli for this soup if that’s what you have on hand! Just add the florets straight to the pot—no need to thaw first. The texture might be a bit softer, but your Skinny Broccoli Cheddar Soup will still turn out delicious.

Is there a way to make this soup completely dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the cheddar cheese for a plant-based alternative and use your favorite non-dairy milk. The soup will have a slightly different flavor, but you’ll still get a creamy, comforting bowl.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as written, since it uses cornstarch as the thickener instead of flour. Always double-check your broth and cheese labels to make sure they’re gluten-free, just to be safe.

What can I do if my soup is too thick?

If your Skinny Broccoli Cheddar Soup thickens up more than you’d like, simply stir in a bit of extra broth or milk until you reach your ideal texture. Add it slowly to avoid making the soup too thin!

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Definitely! For extra protein, toss in some cooked shredded chicken, chickpeas, or white beans during the last few minutes of simmering. These additions make your Skinny Broccoli Cheddar Soup even more filling and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

This Skinny Broccoli Cheddar Soup strikes the perfect balance between cozy comfort and healthy eating. It’s so simple to make and bursting with flavor, you’ll want to keep it in regular rotation at your house. Give it a try—your tastebuds (and your waistline) will thank you!

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