Heart Healthy Creamy Broccoli is a delightful and nutritious dish that perfectly combines comfort food with heart-healthy ingredients. This rich and creamy broccoli cheddar soup is secretly healthy, providing a satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. With 20 grams of protein per serving, it’s an excellent option for anyone looking to maintain a low-fat diet while enjoying a delicious dish. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore the many benefits of this creamy broccoli for heart health!

Why You’ll Love This Heart Healthy Creamy Broccoli

This heart-healthy broccoli recipe is packed with benefits that make it a must-try:

Provides essential nutrients that support cardiovascular health.
Contains high protein content, making it a filling meal option.
Low in fat, perfect for those watching their dietary intake.
Features fiber-rich broccoli, which aids digestion.
Easy to make, allowing busy individuals to whip it up quickly.
Versatile as a healthy creamy broccoli dish, suitable for various occasions.
Can be customized with various ingredients for added flavor.
Great as a comforting soup or a creamy broccoli casserole for a healthy meal.

Ingredients for Heart Healthy Creamy Broccoli

Gather these items:

2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 large onion, diced
2 tbsp flour
1/2 cup half and half
1/2 cup milk
2 cups chicken broth, no salt added
1 carrot, peeled and chopped
3 cups broccoli florets, chopped
1 cup sharp cheddar, shredded

How to Make Heart Healthy Creamy Broccoli Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add flour and stir. Let cook for a few minutes until golden, about 5 minutes. Whisk in half and half and milk slowly until smooth. For a lower fat option, replace the half and half with milk, if desired.
Step 3: Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook over low heat until thickened.
Step 4: Add broccoli and carrot to the pot and cook until broccoli is soft, about 15-20 minutes.
Step 5: Puree the soup in a blender on low, allowing some larger flecks of carrot and broccoli to remain. Return to pot. Alternatively, you could keep the soup in the pot and blend with an immersion blender.
Step 6: Add cheese and stir until melted. Serve immediately.

Heart Healthy Creamy Broccoli: 5 Comforting Benefits - Heart Healthy Creamy Broccoli - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Heart Healthy Creamy Broccoli

Keep these in mind:

This soup is a great source of protein.
You can adjust the thickness by adding more or less broth.
For a vegan option, use plant-based milk and cheese.
Consider adding spices like garlic or nutmeg for extra flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Heart Healthy Creamy Broccoli

There are several delightful ways to enjoy this creamy broccoli dish:

Serve it with a side of whole-grain bread for dipping.
Pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Use it as a sauce over whole-grain pasta for a heart-friendly twist.

How to Store and Reheat Heart Healthy Creamy Broccoli

To save time, you can make this creamy broccoli soup ahead of time. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply heat over low on the stovetop until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions About Heart Healthy Creamy Broccoli

What’s the secret to perfect Heart Healthy Creamy Broccoli?

The secret lies in cooking the broccoli just until tender to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients. Using fresh ingredients enhances the flavor profile, ensuring a delightful creamy broccoli for cardiovascular health.

Can I make Heart Healthy Creamy Broccoli ahead of time?

Yes! This soup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge. Just reheat before serving, and it will taste just as fresh and delicious!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Heart Healthy Creamy Broccoli?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure not to overcook the broccoli. Also, gradually whisk in liquids to avoid lumps, ensuring a smooth creamy broccoli with a creamy sauce.

Variations of Heart Healthy Creamy Broccoli You Can Try

Here are some variations to customize your soup:

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Incorporate other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach for added nutrients.
Swap out the cheddar for a different cheese, like Gruyère, for a unique flavor.
Create a creamy broccoli salad for a nutritious meal by tossing in some nuts and dried fruits.

Heart Healthy Creamy Broccoli: 5 Comforting Benefits - Heart Healthy Creamy Broccoli - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our Roasted Carrot Soup or try making Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil. If you’re interested in the health benefits of broccoli, visit Healthline for more information.

Heart Healthy Creamy Broccoli: 5 Comforting Benefits

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This rich and creamy broccoli cheddar soup is secretly healthy, with 20 grams of protein per serving. It’s the perfect comfort food recipe, filled with good-for-you ingredients.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale

2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 large onion, diced
2 tbsp flour
1/2 cup half and half
1/2 cup milk
2 cups chicken broth, no salt added
1 carrot, peeled and chopped
3 cups broccoli florets, chopped
1 cup sharp cheddar, shredded

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Instructions

In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add flour and stir. Let cook for a few minutes until golden, about 5 minutes. Whisk in half and half and milk slowly until smooth. For a lower fat option, replace the half and half with milk, if desired.
Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook over low heat until thickened.
Add broccoli and carrot to the pot and cook until broccoli is soft, about 15-20 minutes.
Puree the soup in a blender on low, allowing some larger flecks of carrot and broccoli to remain. Return to pot. Alternatively, you could keep the soup in the pot and blend with an immersion blender.
Add cheese and stir until melted. Serve immediately.