High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful blend of flavors, offering a rich and creamy texture while being packed with 20 grams of protein per serving. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or as a hearty lunch option. Enjoy it on chilly days or serve it as a comforting starter for family gatherings. This soup not only satisfies your cravings but also nourishes your body with wholesome ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich in Protein: Each serving delivers an impressive 20 grams of protein, making it a great choice for those looking to boost their intake.
• Comforting and Creamy: The velvety texture will warm you up, providing the ultimate comfort food experience.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe can be prepared quickly, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: This soup can be enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Healthy Twist: Packed with vegetables and low-fat dairy, this soup is a guilt-free indulgence that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Blender or immersion blender
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly, ensuring all ingredients meld together perfectly.
• Blender or immersion blender: Helps achieve that desired creamy consistency by blending the soup smoothly.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, saving you time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

To create this delicious High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

Base Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Thickening Agents

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Main Components

• 3 cups vegetable broth (I like the not-chicken style)
• 4 cups chopped broccoli

Creaminess Factor

• 2 cups 1% milk
• 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
• 1 cup low fat cottage cheese, blended

Seasoning

• Salt & pepper to taste

How to Make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat until it starts to bubble.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently until vegetables are soft.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Incorporate the minced garlic into the pot. Continue to cook for one more minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Flour and Paprika

Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and flour. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly. Cook for another minute.

Step 5: Simmer with Broth and Broccoli

Pour in the vegetable broth and add chopped broccoli. Bring everything to a simmer.

Step 6: Cook Until Tender

Allow the broccoli to simmer for about 8-9 minutes until it becomes tender yet vibrant in color.

Step 7: Add Milk

Stir in the milk and keep cooking over low heat until warmed through without boiling.

Step 8: Combine Cheeses

Add blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese into the pot. Stir gently until melted; take care not to let it curdle.

Step 9: Blend for Creaminess

Transfer one cup of soup to a blender. Blend until smooth while allowing steam to escape. Return blended soup back to pot or use an immersion blender directly in the pot.

Step 10: Season & Serve

Taste your soup; add salt and pepper as needed before serving hot. Enjoy this comforting bowl of high-protein goodness!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this creamy delight.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair the soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping. The texture complements the creamy soup perfectly.

Topped with Crispy Onions

• Add a sprinkle of crispy fried onions on top for an extra crunch and savory flavor.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil just before serving adds richness and enhances the soup’s flavors.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your bowl with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives to brighten up the dish and add a pop of color.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• Serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for an engaging presentation and added flavor.

How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Perfecting your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking process.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh broccoli and vegetables yield better flavor and nutrients compared to frozen options.

• Blend for Creaminess – Blending part of the soup creates a smooth texture while retaining some chunky broccoli pieces for bite.

• Control Heat – Cook over low heat after adding dairy products to prevent curdling and ensure a silky-smooth finish.

• Season Gradually – Taste as you go when adding salt and pepper, ensuring you achieve the perfect balance without over-seasoning.

• Experiment with Cheese – Try different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for unique flavor profiles in your soup.

• Store Properly – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing side dishes with High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garden Salad – A fresh mix of greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes tossed with a light dressing complements the soup’s creaminess.

2. Garlic Bread – Toasted bread spread with garlic butter is perfect for dipping into the rich soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and texture, making your meal more colorful and nutritious.

4. Quinoa Salad – A protein-rich quinoa salad with bell peppers and herbs offers a wholesome addition that pairs beautifully with the soup.

5. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices make for an exciting side that enhances your meal’s flavor profile.

6. Cheesy Cauliflower Bake – This cheesy dish echoes the flavors of broccoli cheddar while providing additional nutrients.

7. Sweet Potato Fries – Baked sweet potato fries give a sweet contrast that balances the savory notes of the soup.

8. Crispy Kale Chips – Lightly seasoned kale chips provide crunch and nutrients while being easy to prepare alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be simple, but certain mistakes may affect the final outcome. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Not chopping broccoli evenly – If your broccoli pieces are uneven, some will become mushy while others remain crunchy. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Overheating the milk – Adding milk too quickly or at too high a temperature can cause it to curdle. Always heat gently and add it to the pot slowly.
• Skipping the blending step – Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture that enhances the overall experience. Don’t skip this step; it’s key for a luscious consistency.
• Using low-quality cheese – For the best flavor, choose a fresh, good-quality cheddar cheese. Low-quality cheese may not melt well or impart the desired taste.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments – Salt and pepper can dramatically enhance flavor. Taste your soup before serving and adjust as needed for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of one minute, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop – Heat over low flame in a saucepan, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, along with their answers.

Can I make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup dairy-free?

Yes! You can replace dairy products with plant-based alternatives such as almond or soy milk and vegan cheese.

What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar is traditional for broccoli cheddar soup, but you can experiment with Gouda or Monterey Jack for different flavors.

How do I customize the High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

You can add other vegetables like spinach or cauliflower, or include proteins like chicken or turkey to boost nutrition.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup stores well and tastes even better after it sits. It’s perfect for meal prepping!

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times slightly since it may soften faster.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrition. Its creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it a favorite among many. Feel free to customize it by adding your preferred veggies or proteins to suit your taste!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in a bowl of High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, where creamy comfort meets nutrition! This delightful soup is packed with 20 grams of protein per serving, making it not only satisfying but also a wholesome option for cozy nights or hearty lunches. The blend of tender broccoli and rich cheddar cheese creates a velvety texture that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for chilly days, this versatile dish can be enjoyed solo or paired with crusty bread for a complete meal. Simple to prepare with common ingredients, you’ll find it’s an easy favorite for everyone at the table.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 4 cups chopped broccoli
• 2 cups 1% milk
• 4 oz shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup blended low-fat cottage cheese

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for about 10 minutes until soft.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in flour and smoked paprika; cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in vegetable broth and add broccoli; bring to a simmer.
6. Cook until broccoli is tender (8-9 minutes).
7. Stir in milk and heat gently.
8. Add blended cottage cheese and cheddar; stir until melted.
9. Blend part of the soup for creaminess and return it to the pot.
10. Season with salt and pepper before serving hot.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 240
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 25mg