Broccoli Cheddar Lightened Soup

Name: Broccoli Cheddar Lightened Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 1 cup unsweetened almond milk; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

Highlighted under: Nourish & Glow Recipes

A deliciously creamy yet lighter take on the classic broccoli cheddar soup, perfect for a cozy meal.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-01T17:23:28.028Z

This lighter version of broccoli cheddar soup offers all the comfort of the original while cutting down on calories and fat. Perfect for those chilly days when you crave something warm and satisfying!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture without the heaviness
Fresh broccoli adds a vibrant color and nutrition
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

A Healthier Twist on a Classic

Broccoli cheddar soup is a beloved comfort food, often rich and heavy. This lightened version maintains the creamy texture while cutting down on calories. By using reduced-fat cheddar cheese and unsweetened almond milk, you get all the flavor you crave without the guilt. It's a perfect solution for those looking to indulge in a classic dish without compromising their health goals.

Fresh broccoli florets not only add a pop of vibrant color to this soup but also pack a nutritional punch. Broccoli is a fantastic source of vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Incorporating this superfood into your diet can support immune function, promote healthy digestion, and even help in reducing inflammation. This soup is a delicious way to enjoy the benefits of broccoli.

Quick and Simple Meal Prep

One of the best things about this broccoli cheddar lightened soup is its ease of preparation. With just a few simple steps, you can have a wholesome meal ready in under 30 minutes. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when time is of the essence. Simply sauté, simmer, blend, and serve – it really is that straightforward!

This soup is also highly adaptable. Feel free to add in other vegetables such as carrots or spinach for an extra nutrient boost or swap out the almond milk for your favorite dairy alternative. The recipe is flexible, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences or what you have on hand, making it a perfect go-to for any occasion.

Perfect Pairings

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Broccoli Cheddar Lightened Soup:

Ingredients

2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add Broccoli and Broth

Stir in the broccoli florets, vegetable broth, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until broccoli is tender.

Blend and Add Cheese

Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Stir in the almond milk and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese if desired. Enjoy your lighter broccoli cheddar soup!

Enjoy your homemade soup with some crusty bread!

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! This broccoli cheddar lightened soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep it fresh, simply transfer it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat the soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in portions. It can be frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to leave some space in the container for expansion. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat on the stove for a quick, comforting meal.

Nutritional Benefits

This lightened broccoli cheddar soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also supports your overall health. With each bowl, you're getting a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals from the broccoli, while the reduced-fat cheddar cheese provides protein and calcium. The use of unsweetened almond milk keeps the fat content low, making it heart-healthy and suitable for various dietary preferences.

In addition to being nutritious, this soup is also low in calories compared to traditional recipes, making it a great option for those managing their weight. You can enjoy a hearty serving without feeling heavy afterward, making it perfect for any meal of the day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk, but it may increase the calorie content.

→ How can I make this soup vegan?

Use a vegan cheese alternative and ensure the vegetable broth is vegan-friendly.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread for dipping.