Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup That’s Cozy and Creamy Without the Guilt

You know those days when all you want is a big bowl of something warm and creamy, but you also don’t want to undo your feel-good streak?

That’s where this healthy broccoli cheddar soup comes in.

It’s cozy, creamy, cheesy—but surprisingly light. No heavy cream. No flour-laden roux. Just veggie-packed goodness that comforts without compromise.

A Bowl of Comfort That Loves You Back

I’ve always been obsessed with broccoli cheddar soup. It was my comfort order at every café. But let’s be honest—those versions can leave you feeling weighed down.

So I started making my own.

This version is creamy and flavorful, yet fresh and clean. You’d never guess it’s secretly loaded with nutrients and skips all the heavy stuff.

Why You’ll Love It

Creamy and indulgent, but light on calories
Packed with real broccoli, sharp cheddar, and wholesome ingredients
Perfect for lunch or dinner
One pot. Easy cleanup. Big flavor.
Great for meal prep and freezer-friendly

If you’re trying to eat a little better but still want comfort food? This soup has your name on it.

The Recipe: Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 head of broccoli (about 4 cups), chopped
1 medium carrot, grated
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any milk you like)
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, but amazing)
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus a little extra for garnish)
Optional: nutritional yeast for added “cheesy” flavor or a handful of spinach for extra greens

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics
Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened.

Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened.

Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the base
Add broccoli, carrot, broth, almond milk, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika.

Season with salt and pepper. Bring it to a light boil, then turn the heat down and simmer.

Step 3: Simmer it down
Let it cook gently for 10–15 minutes until the broccoli is soft.

Add broccoli, carrot, broth, almond milk, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika.

Season with salt and pepper. Bring it to a light boil, then turn the heat down and simmer.

Step 4: Blend to your liking
Use an immersion blender to blend part or all of the soup to your preferred consistency. I like it mostly smooth with just a few chunks.

If you’re using a regular blender, let it cool slightly before blending in batches.