The Best Dairy-Free Cream of Broccoli Soup: Rich, Velvety, and Ready in 30 Minutes
Discover a remarkably delicious and incredibly easy cream of broccoli soup recipe that stands out from the crowd. Forget the heavy cream and dairy; this version achieves its luxurious, velvety texture and rich flavor using wholesome, full-fat coconut milk. Don’t worry about any lingering coconut taste – a common concern for many – because it magically disappears, leaving behind only pure, satisfying creaminess. This makes it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a dairy-free, plant-based, or even vegan broccoli soup without compromising on indulgence. Of course, if traditional dairy is your preference, feel free to substitute with half-and-half or heavy cream for equally delightful results.
Imagine a vibrant green, perfectly smooth, and wonderfully warm bowl of comfort on a chilly day. That’s exactly what this simple homemade cream of broccoli soup delivers. Even in sun-drenched Southern California, a grey and drizzly afternoon begs for a nourishing bowl that warms you from the inside out. If you’re specifically searching for a broccoli soup recipe without milk or cream, look no further. Crafted with canned coconut milk or your favorite plant-based cream alternative, it’s every bit as rich, cozy, and profoundly satisfying as any traditional dairy-based version. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a healthy and guilt-free choice for a weeknight meal or a special lunch.
Why This Dairy-Free Cream of Broccoli Soup Will Be Your New Favorite
This recipe isn’t just another soup; it’s a culinary revelation that combines simplicity with incredible flavor and health benefits. Here’s why this easy broccoli soup recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen:
- Achieves Creaminess Without Dairy: The magic lies in full-fat canned coconut milk, which imparts an unbelievably velvety smooth texture and rich mouthfeel without a single drop of dairy. This makes it perfect for those with lactose intolerance, dairy allergies, or anyone following a vegan or plant-based diet. You get all the luscious creaminess you desire, completely dairy-free. If dairy is fine for you, half-and-half or heavy cream can be used interchangeably for a classic taste.
- Light Yet Hugely Satisfying: Don’t let the “light” aspect fool you – this soup is incredibly filling. It’s bursting with fresh broccoli, a powerhouse of nutrients and fiber, along with a boost of vibrant spinach. This combination not only provides essential vitamins and minerals but also keeps you feeling full and content, making it an excellent healthy meal option.
- Effortlessly Quick and Easy: Life is busy, and meal prep shouldn’t be complicated. This quick cream of broccoli soup cooks entirely in one pot and is ready to enjoy in approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a wholesome, delicious meal on the table fast.
- Remarkably Flexible and Adaptable: This recipe is a blank canvas for your dietary needs and preferences. You can choose between chicken or vegetable broth to keep it fully plant-based or add savory depth. For an extra boost of protein and heartiness, feel free to stir in cooked chicken or turkey sausage. Or, maintain its vegan integrity by simply enjoying it as is. It’s designed to fit your lifestyle.
If you’re a fan of creamy green vegetable soups, you might also enjoy this easy cream of asparagus soup, which also offers both coconut milk and heavy cream options.
Essential Ingredients for Your Velvety Broccoli Soup
Crafting this incredible dairy-free broccoli soup requires just a handful of fresh, simple ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the soup’s vibrant flavor and luxurious texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A small amount of this quality oil is used to gently sauté the aromatic vegetables, laying the foundation for a deeply flavorful soup. It adds a subtle richness and helps release the natural sweetness of the onions and celery.
- Onion: Finely chopped, onion provides a foundational sweetness and savory depth to the soup. It’s a classic aromatic that blends seamlessly into the smooth texture.
- Celery: Offering a delicate, earthy flavor and a hint of freshness, celery is another essential aromatic that balances the richness of the soup. Together with onion, it forms the traditional mirepoix base.
- Broccoli Florets: The star of the show! You can use conveniently pre-bagged florets for quick prep, or buy whole heads of broccoli and chop them yourself. Fresh broccoli ensures the brightest green color and freshest flavor. For best results, ensure the florets are cut into roughly equal sizes for even cooking.
- Broth: The choice of broth significantly impacts the soup’s overall flavor. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to maintain control over the salt content and add a classic savory note. For a fully plant-based and vegan option, a high-quality vegetable broth is an excellent substitute.
- Coconut Milk or Cream: This is the secret to the soup’s incredible dairy-free creaminess. Use full-fat canned coconut milk for the most luscious and rich texture. As mentioned, it provides a velvety mouthfeel without imparting any noticeable coconut flavor. If you prefer dairy, half-and-half or heavy cream can be used in the same quantity.
- Spinach Leaves: A few handfuls of raw baby spinach are blended into the soup to boost its vibrant green color and enhance its nutritional profile. Spinach is virtually flavorless once blended, seamlessly adding vitamins and antioxidants.
- Fresh Herbs (Optional): A sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley as a garnish adds a burst of freshness and a pop of color, elevating the presentation and flavor of your finished soup.
Please refer to the detailed recipe card below for precise measurements of all ingredients, including salt and pepper.
Chef’s Tip: Selecting the Perfect Broth for Your Soup
The quality and type of broth you choose will truly define the depth and character of your homemade broccoli soup. For a classic, comforting taste, chicken broth is an excellent option. I often recommend making your own for unparalleled flavor; here are links to my Instant Pot Chicken Broth and a richer Chicken Bone Broth. If you’re aiming for a completely plant-based or vegan version, a good vegetable broth works beautifully. For those who enjoy a deeper, more robust flavor, homemade turkey broth can add an unexpected richness. Having homemade broth on hand is a game-changer for soups like this. I often prepare large batches and freeze them in convenient Souper Cubes, which are perfect for freezing measured portions of broths, soups, and much more.
Customizing Your Cream of Broccoli Soup: Substitutions and Variations
This easy cream of broccoli soup recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your dietary needs, pantry staples, and flavor preferences. Here are some popular substitutions and exciting variations:
- Broth Options: For a soup that is entirely vegetarian or vegan, always opt for a high-quality vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This simple switch ensures your soup adheres to plant-based dietary guidelines while still delivering a fantastic flavor base.
- Dairy Creaminess: If you love the traditional taste and richness of dairy, you can easily substitute the canned coconut milk with an equal amount of half-and-half or heavy cream. This will yield a classic cream of broccoli soup that is just as comforting and delicious.
- Boost the Protein: To transform this soup into a heartier, more substantial meal, consider adding cooked protein. Sliced chicken breast, pan-fried turkey sausage, or even crispy bacon bits make excellent toppings. For a plant-based protein boost, roasted chickpeas, white beans, or pan-fried firm tofu cubes can be added after blending.
- Add Other Vegetables: While broccoli is the star, you can enhance the nutritional value and complexity of flavor by incorporating other vegetables. A handful of chopped carrots or potatoes can be added along with the broccoli for extra body and sweetness. A bit of fresh kale or collard greens can also be blended in with the spinach for an even darker green hue and more nutrients.
- Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can be stirred in at the end. A subtle hint of nutmeg can also enhance the creamy flavor profile, a common addition in many traditional cream soups.
If you’re a true broccoli enthusiast, you might also enjoy this recipe for roasted broccoli with parmesan for another delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable.
How to Effortlessly Make This Delicious Cream of Broccoli Soup
Making this velvety dairy-free cream of broccoli soup is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow these simple steps for a perfect bowl every time:
- Sauté Aromatics and Cook Broccoli: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Add the finely chopped onion and celery, cooking gently until they soften and become translucent, typically about 3-4 minutes. This step builds the aromatic foundation of your soup. Next, add the broccoli florets and the broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and simmer. Allow the broccoli to cook until it is very tender when easily pierced with the tip of a paring knife, which usually takes around 20 minutes. This ensures a smooth puree.
- Puree to Perfection: Once the broccoli is thoroughly tender, carefully transfer half of the cooked broccoli along with half of the broth from the pot into a blender. Add half of the coconut milk and 2 handfuls of fresh spinach. Secure the lid tightly and begin pureeing on a low speed, gradually increasing to high until the soup is completely smooth and creamy. Exercise caution when blending hot liquids, as they can expand rapidly. Blending in two batches is a safer approach to prevent any overflow or splatters. Repeat this process with the remaining broccoli, broth, coconut milk, and spinach. Once both batches are pureed, combine them back into the original pot and keep warm until you’re ready to serve.
Optional Sausage Preparation: If you opt to include the sausage for a heartier meal, chop the pre-cooked links into small, bite-sized pieces while the soup is simmering. In a separate non-stick pan, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until the edges are nicely browned and slightly crispy. These will be added as a garnish just before serving.
Serving Your Delicious Cream of Broccoli Soup
This velvety cream of broccoli soup is satisfying enough to be a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to create a more complete and delightful dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp, light green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich creaminess of the soup. Consider a peppery arugula salad, a classic Caesar salad with homemade Caesar dressing, or a simple garden salad dressed with a vinaigrette.
- Garlic Toast or Croutons: There’s nothing quite like dipping a crunchy piece of bread into a warm bowl of soup. Make gluten-free garlic toast by brushing slices of bread with butter or olive oil infused with minced garlic and baking until golden. Homemade croutons also add a delightful texture.
- Warm Cornbread: A slice of fresh, moist cornbread (this recipe is naturally gluten-free) is a comforting accompaniment that complements the savory notes of the soup perfectly. The slight sweetness and crumbly texture of cornbread create a lovely balance.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For the ultimate comfort food pairing, a classic grilled cheese sandwich is an unbeatable choice. The melty cheese and crispy bread offer a wonderful textural and flavor contrast to the smooth soup.
- Crusty Artisan Bread: A simple, crusty loaf of artisan bread is excellent for soaking up every last drop of the delicious soup.
When serving, ladle the warm soup into bowls. If using, top each portion with the crisped sausage pieces. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or parsley for a burst of fresh flavor and vibrant color.
Storage & Freezing Tips for Your Broccoli Soup
Preparing a batch of this delicious cream of broccoli soup in advance or saving leftovers is incredibly convenient. Here’s how to properly store and freeze your soup to maintain its quality and flavor:
Refrigerate: Any leftover soup should be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days. When reheating, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to ensure even heating and to prevent sticking. Avoid boiling vigorously, as this can sometimes affect the soup’s creamy texture.
Freezing: Soups that contain coconut milk or other creams can sometimes undergo a slight textural change after freezing and thawing, occasionally becoming a bit grainy or separating. While the flavor remains excellent, the texture might not be as perfectly smooth as freshly made soup. If you wish to freeze, ensure the soup is completely cooled before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator. Before gently warming it on the stovetop, give it a quick blend with an immersion blender or transfer it back to a regular blender for a brief pulse to help restore its smooth consistency.
Make Ahead: This easy broccoli soup is an excellent candidate for meal prepping. In fact, many find that the flavors meld and deepen overnight, often making the soup taste even better the next day. Prepare it a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and then gently reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.
Common Questions About Cream of Broccoli Soup
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about making and customizing this dairy-free cream of broccoli soup:
If you prefer not to use coconut milk, or simply enjoy a traditional dairy soup, you can easily substitute it with an equal amount of half-and-half or heavy cream. For other vegan, plant-based options, consider oat cream, soy cream, or other commercially available plant-based cream replacements. Be mindful that these alternatives might subtly alter the flavor profile of the soup.
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli florets work wonderfully in this recipe and can significantly reduce your prep time. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand; simply add the frozen broccoli directly to the pot along with the broth, using the same weight as you would for fresh broccoli. The cooking time might extend slightly, but the end result will be just as delicious and creamy.
This recipe is designed to produce a wonderfully thick and velvety soup. However, if you prefer a lighter consistency, it’s very easy to adjust. Simply stir in additional broth (chicken or vegetable, depending on your dietary preference) or even a little water, a tablespoon at a time, until the soup reaches your desired consistency. Reheat gently while stirring to combine.
Soups containing creams or coconut milk can sometimes experience textural changes after freezing and thawing, occasionally becoming grainy or separating due to the fat content. While the flavor typically remains good, the smooth consistency might be affected. If you choose to freeze, ensure the soup is fully cooled before portioning into freezer-safe containers for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and briefly re-blend (with an immersion blender or regular blender) before reheating to help restore its smooth texture.
Yes, this recipe is easily adaptable for a vegan diet. To make it fully vegan, ensure you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and stick with canned coconut milk as your creamy base. Simply omit any optional meat garnishes like chicken or turkey sausage, and opt for plant-based toppings like roasted chickpeas or fresh herbs instead. It’s a wonderfully flavorful and satisfying vegan soup option.
More Velvety & Comforting Soup Recipes
There’s an undeniable comfort in a smooth, creamy soup—each spoonful warm, velvety, and deeply satisfying. These recipes are designed for ease of preparation at home, blending beautifully to transform simple vegetables into cozy, hearty bowls of goodness that are perfect for any occasion.
- Creamy Fennel Soup With White Beans
- Roasted Red Pepper Soup (sheet pan recipe)
- Curried Cauliflower Soup
- Quick Tomato Soup From Canned Tomatoes
📖 Recipe
Cream of Broccoli Soup (Dairy-Free & Vegan Option)
Sally Cameron
Pin Recipe
Equipment
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5 quart pot, pan or Dutch oven
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Blender (standard or immersion)
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 ribs celery finely chopped
- 1 ½ pounds broccoli florets (from bagged or several large heads)
- 3 cups low sodium chicken or vegetable broth (preferably homemade)
- 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk (or half-and-half/heavy cream if not dairy-free)
- 4 handfuls raw baby spinach leaves
- ¼ teaspoon salt to taste
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
- ¾ pound pre-cooked chicken-turkey sausage (approx. 4 links, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil (for cooking sausage)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation & Cooking Base Soup
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Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium pot (4-5 quarts) or Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Add the finely chopped onion and celery. Sauté gently until the vegetables are soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
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Add the broccoli florets (if using whole heads, chop large, thick stems small and florets roughly). Pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Cover the pot with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is very tender and can be easily pierced with the tip of a paring knife.
Optional Sausage Preparation
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While the soup is simmering, prepare your optional sausage. Slice the pre-cooked links in half lengthwise, then lay them flat on a cutting board and chop them into small pieces on the diagonal. Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the chopped sausage pieces and cook until they are browned and slightly crispy around the edges. Set aside for garnish.
Pureeing the Soup
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Once the broccoli is tender, carefully transfer half of the cooked broccoli mixture (broccoli and broth) to a blender. Add half of the coconut milk and 2 handfuls of raw baby spinach leaves.
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Secure the blender lid tightly, starting with a low speed and gradually increasing to high, pureeing until the soup is completely smooth and creamy. Be very cautious when blending hot liquids, as they expand. Blending in two batches is recommended for safety.
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Repeat the pureeing process with the remaining half of the broccoli mixture, coconut milk, and spinach. Once both batches are smooth, combine them back into the pot and keep warm over low heat until ready to serve.
Serving
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Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper as desired. Ladle generous portions of the hot soup into bowls.
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If using, top each bowl with the crisped sausage pieces. Garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley for added freshness and color. Serve immediately and enjoy!