High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition. It’s a delightful dish suitable for lunch or dinner, bringing warmth and flavor to any table. Packed with 20 grams of protein per serving, this soup is rich, creamy, and secretly healthy. Enjoy it as a satisfying meal on chilly days or as a delicious starter for gatherings.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Base
• For Flavoring
• For the Soup
• For Creaminess
• For Seasoning
• For Garnish
• How to Make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
• Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices
• Step 3: Add Broth and Broccoli
• Step 4: Add Milk and Cheese
• Step 5: Blend for Creaminess
• Step 6: Season and Serve
• How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• With Crusty Bread
• Topped with Extra Cheese
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs
• With a Side Salad
• How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup healthy?
• Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
• How can I customize my High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Twist: This soup delivers all the rich flavors you love while being packed with protein.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can whip up this comforting soup in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a hearty appetizer at gatherings.
• Creamy Texture: The combination of blended cottage cheese and cheddar creates a smooth and luscious experience.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the cheesy goodness and vibrant broccoli!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Blender (or immersion blender)
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup.
• Blender: Helps achieve a creamy texture by blending part of the soup.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

This rich and creamy broccoli cheddar soup is secretly healthy and packed with 20 grams of protein per serving! It’s a comforting and nutritious recipe perfect for lunch or dinner.

For the Base

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

For Flavoring

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

For the Soup

• 3 cups vegetable broth (preferably not-chicken style)
• 4 cups chopped broccoli
• 2 cups 1% milk

For Creaminess

• 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
• 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese, blended until smooth

For Seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently until the vegetables are softened.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then sprinkle the smoked paprika and flour over the vegetables, stirring well to coat. Cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Add Broth and Broccoli

Pour in the vegetable broth and add the chopped broccoli. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 8–9 minutes or until the broccoli is tender.

Step 4: Add Milk and Cheese

Reduce heat to low. Stir in the milk, blended cottage cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently until melted. Be careful not to let it boil.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess

Transfer 1 cup of soup to a blender; blend until smooth. Allow steam to escape through the vent. Return it to the pot; stir to combine. Alternatively, use an immersion blender for a creamier texture while leaving some chunks intact.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste your soup; add salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful experience that enhances its comforting flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, there are many creative ways to serve this nutritious soup.

With Crusty Bread

• Baguette Slices: Pair with warm, crusty baguette slices for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread for a flavorful complement.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Shredded Cheddar: Add an extra sprinkle of sharp cheddar on top just before serving to enhance the cheesy flavor.
• Parmesan Crumbles: A sprinkle of Parmesan adds a nutty taste to each bowl.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Finely chop fresh parsley and sprinkle on top for added freshness.
• Chives: Use snipped chives for a mild onion flavor that pairs well with the soup.

With a Side Salad

• Simple Green Salad: A light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Caesar Salad: The bold flavors of Caesar salad make a great contrast to the creamy soup.

How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To achieve the best version of High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli provides better texture and flavor compared to frozen.
• Blend Smoothly: Ensure cottage cheese is blended until completely smooth for a creamy consistency.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving.
• Control Thickness: For thicker soup, reduce broth; add more if you prefer it thinner.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.
• Serve Immediately: This soup tastes best when served hot right after cooking.

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Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing side dishes with your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic choice that complements the soup’s creaminess perfectly.
2. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with quinoa and vegetables add nutrition and color to the table.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a crunchy texture alongside the smooth soup.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins create a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make an excellent finger food option.
6. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad can lighten up your meal while adding protein.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you create the best soup possible.

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Not sautéing the vegetables can lead to a lack of flavor. Make sure to cook the onions, carrots, and celery until soft for a richer taste.
• Adding Cheese Too Early: Adding cheese before the soup is cool enough can cause it to clump. Wait until the soup is off heat to stir in your cheese.
• Using Low-Quality Broth: Poor-quality broth will affect the overall flavor of your soup. Use a good vegetable broth for the best results.
• Not Blending Enough: If you skip blending, your soup may lack creaminess. Blend at least part of it to achieve that smooth texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Forgetting to season properly can leave your soup bland. Always taste before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing it in containers.

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup healthy?

This soup includes cottage cheese and low-fat milk, providing a significant protein boost while keeping calories in check.

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen broccoli works well and can be added directly without thawing.

How can I customize my High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Add ingredients like cooked chicken or other vegetables such as spinach or kale for extra nutrition and variety.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup stores well and is perfect for preparing meals ahead of time.

Final Thoughts

High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only comforting but also nutritious, making it ideal for lunch or dinner. You can easily customize it with additional proteins or veggies according to your preferences. Give this recipe a try today!