If you are looking for a comforting and easy-to-prepare meal, 1/2 cup (123 g) Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup is a great option to consider. Not only is it a convenient solution for busy weeknights, but it also comes with only 60 calories per serving, making it a healthier alternative than many other processed meals.

But how healthy is this soup, and what are its nutritional benefits? Let's take a closer look at the nutritional facts of Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup.

In this article, we'll explore various aspects of this soup and share some delicious recipes as well as useful tips to help you enjoy it to the fullest.

The Nutritional Facts of Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup

While Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup is a convenient meal option, it is important to understand its nutritional value. Here are the nutritional facts of a 1/2 cup (123 g) serving of this soup:

• calories: 60
• Total Fat: 2.5 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 5 mg
• Sodium: 770 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 7 g
• Dietary Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Protein: 2 g

As you can see, while the calorie count is low, the soup is relatively high in sodium. It also contains a moderate amount of fats and carbohydrates but provides some fiber and protein that make it a more filling meal option.

Ways to Enjoy Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup

One of the best things about Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup is its versatility. You can enjoy it in various ways, depending on your preferences and dietary needs. Here are some popular options:

• As a standalone soup with some whole-grain bread or crackers on the side.
• As a base for a veggie-packed casserole or lasagna that incorporates your favorite protein and veggies.
• As a dipping sauce for roasted vegetables or baked chicken fingers.
• As a sauce for pasta, either on its own or with some additional veggies and protein.
• As a topping for baked sweet potatoes or regular potatoes, along with some shredded cheese and chives.

Whatever way you choose, Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup can provide a comforting and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare and customize according to your liking.

Popular Brands of Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup in the Market

If you are looking for a ready-to-use version of Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup, there are various brands available in supermarkets and online. Some of the most popular ones include:

• Campbell's Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup
• Progresso Rich and Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup
• Knorr Broccoli and Cheddar Pasta Sides
• Bear Creek Country Kitchens Broccoli Cheese Soup Mix
• Pacific Foods Creamy Broccoli Soup

Most of these brands use similar ingredients, but some may differ in terms of sodium levels, fat content, and other nutritional factors. Be sure to compare different options and read the labels carefully before making your purchase.

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup from Scratch

Making Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup from scratch may sound intimidating, but it is actually quite simple and only requires a few ingredients. Here is a basic recipe that you can customize according to your taste:

1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves and cook until softened.
3. Add 3 cups of broccoli florets and 1/4 teaspoon of salt and cook for 5 minutes.
4. Add 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth and 1 cup of milk and bring to a boil.
5. Simmer for 15 minutes or until the broccoli is tender.
6. Puree the mixture using an immersion blender or transfer to a blender and blend until smooth.
7. Return to the pot and add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and combined.
8. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed in 2 tablespoons of water) to the soup and cook for a few more minutes.

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings of Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup that you can enjoy right away or freeze for later use. Feel free to add more or less cheese, salt, or spices according to your preference.

Suitable Complimentary Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup

To make your Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup meal more balanced and satisfying, you can pair it with complementary side dishes that add more nutrients and textures. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• A mixed green salad with veggies, nuts, and a light vinaigrette dressing.
• Some whole-grain bread or crackers to dip into the soup.
• A roasted sweet potato or regular potato with some olive oil, salt, and herbs.
• A side of roasted or steamed veggies, such as carrots, green beans, or asparagus.
• A small portion of protein-rich foods, such as grilled chicken, baked tofu, or roasted turkey.

By incorporating more veggies, protein, and fiber into your Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup meal, you can make it more nutritious and filling without adding too many calories.

Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup as a Base for Pasta or Rice Dishes

If you are a fan of pasta or rice dishes, using Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup as a base can be a delicious shortcut that adds flavor and creaminess to your meal. Here are some ideas to try out:

• Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Alfredo: Cook some pasta of your choice and set aside. In a skillet, cook 1 pound of chopped chicken until no longer pink. Add 1/2 cup of Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup and 1/2 cup of heavy cream and whisk together until the sauce thickens. Add the cooked pasta and toss to combine. Serve hot with some grated Parmesan cheese on top.
• Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. In a bowl, mix together 3 cups of cooked rice, 1/2 cup of Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup of steamed broccoli florets, and 1/4 cup of milk. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
• Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Peppers: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Cut off the tops of 4 bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. In a bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup, 1 cup of cooked quinoa, 1/2 cup of canned black beans, 1/2 cup of diced tomatoes, and 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Stuff the peppers with the mixture and place them in a baking dish. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is bubbly.

These recipes use Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup in various ways and offer a tasty and convenient solution for busy days when you want to have a wholesome meal but don't have much time to cook.

Tips on Storing and Reheating Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup

If you have leftover Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat the soup, you can use a microwave or a stove. Here are some tips to ensure that your soup stays fresh and tasty:

• Avoid reheating the soup multiple times, as this can lead to bacterial growth and spoilage.
• If the soup thickens too much upon reheating, you can add some extra broth or milk to thin it out.
• If you are reheating frozen soup, be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it.
• If you are using a microwave, stir the soup occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent hot spots.
• If you are using a stove, heat the soup over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot but not boiling.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup even after it has been stored and reheated.

How to Incorporate More Vegetables into Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup

While Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup already contains some veggies, you can always add more to increase its nutritional value and taste. Here are some vegetables that go well with Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup and some ideas on how to add them:

• Carrots: add chopped carrots to the soup at the same time as the broccoli, or sauté them separately and mix them in before serving.
• Cauliflower: roast or steam cauliflower florets and use them as a topping for the soup.
• Zucchini: sauté sliced zucchini with some garlic and spices and mix it with the soup before blending.
• Spinach: add a handful of fresh spinach or kale to the soup before serving, and let it wilt slightly.
• Peas: stir in some frozen peas during the last few minutes of cooking, or use them as a garnish for the soup.

Adding more veggies to your Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup can make it a more balanced and nutrient-dense meal that is also delicious and satisfying.

Health Benefits of Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup

While Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup is not a superfood or a cure-all, it can still offer some health benefits when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Here are some potential benefits of this soup:

• Providing a good source of calcium and vitamin D from the cheese, which can help maintain healthy bones and teeth.
• Offering some vitamin C and other antioxidants from the broccoli, which can help boost immunity and reduce inflammation.
• Being a low-calorie meal option that can help with weight management when consumed in conjunction with other healthy foods and exercise.
• Providing satiety and comfort thanks to the creaminess and flavor of the soup, which can help combat cravings and overeating.

As always, it is important to consume Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup in moderation and as part of an overall healthy and balanced diet.

Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup Recipes for Different Occasions

If you are looking for some creative and delicious Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup recipes that fit different occasions and tastes, here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Broccoli Cheese Soup with Bacon and Croutons: This hearty and flavorful soup pairs well with some crispy bacon bits and homemade croutons. The recipe can be found on the Campbell's website.
• Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup: If you want to make a big batch of soup that can feed a crowd or last for several meals, this crockpot recipe from The Recipe Critic is a great option. It uses simple ingredients and requires minimal hands-on time.
• Low-Carb Broccoli Cheese Soup: If you are following a low-carb or keto diet, this recipe from Wholesome Yum can still allow you to enjoy the flavors of Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup without the added carbs. It uses cream cheese and almond milk to thicken the soup and adds some bacon and chives as toppings.
• Vegan Broccoli Cheese Soup: For a plant-based version of this classic soup, try this recipe from Minimalist Baker. It uses cashews, potatoes, and nutritional yeast to create a rich and cheesy flavor and can be customized with various toppings and add-ins.

Whether you want a classic, indulgent, or healthy version of Broccoli Cheese Condensed Soup, there is a recipe out there that can fit your preferences and dietary needs. Don't be afraid to experiment and try different variations to find your favorite one.