Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
This simple and flavorful Broccoli Cheese Soup recipe comes from a dear friend and has quickly become a family favorite. It’s quick to prepare, comforting, and made lighter with the use of skim milk and Velveeta Light, so you can enjoy it without the guilt! Despite the substitutions, you wonโt miss the full-fat versions, and it still delivers a creamy, cheesy flavor that everyone will love. Plus, each serving is just 4 Weight Watchers points if youโre following that plan. Whether you need a quick meal on a busy weeknight or a warm dish to enjoy on a chilly day, this Broccoli Cheese Soup fits the bill perfectly.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion | 1 medium |
| Margarine | 1/4 cup |
| Water | 3 cups |
| Chicken Bouillon Cubes | 3 cubes |
| Frozen Broccoli | 1 package (about 8 oz) |
| Velveeta Light Cheese | 8 oz |
| Skim Milk | 2 cups |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutritional Element | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 211 |
| Fat Content | 14.7 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 6.5 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 35.2 mg |
| Sodium Content | 806.1 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 12.1 g |
| Fiber Content | 1.4 g |
| Sugar Content | 3.4 g |
| Protein Content | 8.6 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Onion: Start by finely chopping the onion. In a large pot, melt the margarine over medium heat and sautรฉ the onion until itโs soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. The onion will add a subtle sweetness to the soup, balancing the richness of the cheese.
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Add Water and Bouillon: Once the onion is ready, pour in 3 cups of water and stir in the chicken bouillon cubes. Allow the mixture to come to a boil over medium-high heat. The bouillon will dissolve into the water, creating a flavorful base for the soup.
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Cook the Broccoli: Add the frozen broccoli to the pot. Use a spoon or spatula to break the broccoli into small pieces as it heats up. This ensures the broccoli cooks evenly and integrates well with the rest of the soup. Continue to cook for about 5 minutes or until the broccoli starts to soften.
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Add Noodles: Toss in your choice of noodles (about 1 to 2 cups) to the boiling broth. The noodles will cook directly in the broth, soaking up the flavor. Stir occasionally, ensuring the noodles cook evenly. Reduce the heat to a simmer once the soup returns to a boil.
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Simmer Until Tender: Allow the soup to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the noodles and broccoli are tender. Keep an eye on the noodles to make sure they don’t overcook and become mushy.
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Melt in Velveeta Cheese: Once the noodles are cooked, itโs time to add the Velveeta Light cheese. Cut the cheese into small chunks or grate it before adding it to the pot. Stir until the cheese is completely melted, creating a smooth, creamy base for your soup.
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Finish with Milk: Pour in the 2 cups of skim milk and stir to combine. Heat the soup over low-medium heat, making sure the milk warms through without coming to a boil. This will help keep the soup creamy and prevent it from curdling.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the soup is hot and well-mixed, itโs ready to serve! Ladle into bowls and enjoy this comforting, cheesy soup with a lightened-up twist. It pairs wonderfully with a crusty piece of bread or a light salad.
Recipe Notes
- Substitutions: If you prefer, you can use regular Velveeta cheese for a richer flavor, or try adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra depth.
- Make it Vegetarian: This soup can easily be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken bouillon cubes and ensuring that your noodles are egg-free.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Freezing Tip: This soup can be frozen, but itโs best to freeze it without the milk. After thawing, you can add the milk back in while reheating to keep the texture smooth and creamy.
This Broccoli Cheese Soup is perfect for those times when you crave a comforting, cheesy bowl but want to keep things light. With just 25 minutes from start to finish, itโs a great option for busy days when you want something quick, satisfying, and full of flavor. Enjoy!
