Weight Watchers Broccoli Cheddar Soup 
Ingredients:

  • 4 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups fat-free chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
  • 1 cup fat-free milk
  • 1 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon light butter (or margarine)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender, then set them aside. You can leave them whole or chop them into smaller pieces for easier blending.
  2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
    • In a large pot over medium heat, melt the light butter.
    • Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Make a Roux:
    • Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring continuously to coat the veggies.
    • Cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
  4. Add the Liquids:
    • Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, making sure to break up any lumps from the flour. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
  5. Add Broccoli and Cheese:
    • Add the cooked broccoli to the soup, then stir in the reduced-fat cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and is fully incorporated.
  6. Blend the Soup (Optional):
    • For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender or transfer some of the soup to a blender. Blend until your desired consistency is reached (you can blend it completely smooth or leave it chunky).
  7. Season: Stir in salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (optional) for extra warmth and depth of flavor.
  8. Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer for 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld together. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more broth or milk.
  9. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy! Garnish with a sprinkle of extra cheese or a few broccoli florets if desired.

Points Breakdown (per serving):

  • Broccoli: 0 points
  • Onion and Garlic: 0 points
  • Chicken Broth (fat-free): 0 points
  • Fat-Free Milk: 1 point
  • Reduced-Fat Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): 4-6 points, depending on the brand
  • Light Butter: 2 points
  • Flour: 1 point

Total per serving: 2-3 WW Points (depending on the cheese and exact portion size).

Benefits:

  • Low in Points: At only 2-3 points per serving, this soup fits perfectly into a Weight Watchers plan.
  • High in Nutrients: Broccoli is rich in vitamins C, K, and fiber, making this soup not just delicious but also nutritious.
  • Comfort Food: Creamy and cheesy, it satisfies your comfort food cravings without derailing your diet.

Tips:

  • For Extra Creaminess: Add a dollop of non-fat Greek yogurt or use an extra splash of milk before serving.
  • Cheese Variation: Use a mix of sharp cheddar and parmesan for more flavor without increasing points significantly.
  • Blending: For a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest with whole broccoli florets.

Conclusion:

This Weight Watchers Broccoli Cheddar Soup is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for cold days. It’s low in points but high in flavor, making it a guilt-free indulgence!