What’s better than wrapping your hands around a warm bowl of rich, cheesy soup on a chilly day? This Cozy Creamy Vegetable Soup delivers comfort in every creamy spoonful. It’s the ultimate weeknight dinner solution—simple, soul-warming, and packed with colorful vegetables that even picky eaters will love. Whether you’re looking for a family favorite or a freezer-friendly meal, this recipe offers all the feel-good vibes of classic creamy soups with an easy prep that won’t leave a mess in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled & diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or plant-based cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or dairy-free alternative)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: Crusty bread for dipping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Base Vegetables
- In a large pot, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until vegetables soften.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Step 2: Add Potatoes and Broth
- Add diced potatoes and vegetable broth to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes or until potatoes are just tender.
Step 3: Add Broccoli and Simmer
- Stir in broccoli florets and continue to simmer for another 7–8 minutes until all vegetables are soft.
Step 4: Blend and Cream
- Using an immersion blender, blend part of the soup to create a creamy base (or transfer 2 cups to a blender and return it to the pot).
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream or plant-based cream.
Step 5: Stir in Cheese
- Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Variations
- Use cauliflower instead of broccoli for a different texture.
- Add spinach or kale at the end for extra greens.
- Use vegan cheese and cream for a 100% dairy-free version.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika for a flavor twist.
Cooking Note
- Blend just half the soup for the perfect balance of creamy and chunky texture.
- For a nut-free vegan version, use oat or soy cream and vegan cheddar.
- Let the cheese melt slowly on low heat to avoid clumping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup hot with crusty sourdough, garlic bread, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete comfort meal. Top with cracked black pepper or a drizzle of olive oil just before serving. For presentation, sprinkle some chopped chives or grated cheese on top.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring frequently. If freezing, skip adding cheese and cream until after reheating for the best texture.
Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 12g
Sodium:580mg
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To reduce fat, use light cream or unsweetened oat milk. For a lower-calorie version, reduce the cheese to 1/2 cup or omit entirely. Add more non-starchy vegetables like zucchini to bulk it up without extra calories.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the broccoli: Add it toward the end to retain its bright color and texture.
- Using high heat with dairy: Always lower the heat when adding cream and cheese to avoid separation.
- Skipping the blending step: This is key to the creamy texture!
- Adding cheese all at once: Stir it in gradually over low heat to ensure it melts smoothly.
Conclusion
This Cozy Creamy Vegetable Soup is the ultimate comfort food that comes together quickly with minimal effort. Creamy, cheesy, and full of wholesome vegetables, it’s a satisfying meal that will warm you from the inside out. Try it today and share it with someone who could use a cozy bowl of love.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this soup vegan?
A: Absolutely! Just use dairy-free cheese and cream options.
Q2: How can I make this gluten-free?
A: It’s naturally gluten-free as written. Just double-check your broth and cheese ingredients.
Q3: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, but for best results freeze before adding the cheese and cream. Add them after reheating.
Q4: Can I use frozen veggies?
A: Yes, frozen carrots, broccoli, and even peas can be added straight to the pot—just adjust cooking time slightly.
Cozy Creamy Vegetable Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Cozy Creamy Vegetable Soup is a rich, cheesy, and heartwarming bowl of comfort—perfect for weeknights or chilly weather. Made with simple ingredients and bursting with flavor, it’s a go-to family favorite.
Ingredients
1 tbsp butter or olive oil 1 small onion, diced 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 carrots, chopped 2 celery stalks, chopped 1 cup broccoli florets 2 medium potatoes, peeled & diced 4 cups vegetable broth 1/2 cup heavy cream or plant-based cream 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or dairy-free alternative) Salt & pepper to taste Optional: Crusty bread for dipping
Instructions
1. Heat butter or oil in a large pot. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté 5–6 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Add diced potatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to boil, then simmer 10–12 minutes. Add broccoli florets and simmer 7–8 more minutes. Blend part of the soup for creaminess using immersion blender or regular blender. Lower heat, stir in cream, then add shredded cheese until melted. Season to taste. Serve with crusty bread.
Notes
For vegan version, use plant-based cream and dairy-free cheese. Store in fridge up to 4 days or freeze before adding cream/cheese. Add greens like spinach for extra nutrients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 35mg