High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, then you’ve found it! This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is one of my all-time favorites. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor while sneaking in a hefty dose of protein—20 grams per serving, to be exact! Whether you’re having a busy weeknight or hosting a family gathering, this soup brings smiles to the table.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it comes together. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get those greens in without compromising on taste. So grab your favorite bowl and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This soup comes together in just 35 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners!
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the creamy texture and cheesy goodness.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can whip up a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Nutritious Comfort Food: With wholesome ingredients, this soup satisfies both cravings and health goals.
• Endlessly Customizable: Feel free to add different veggies or spices to make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need anything fancy for this recipe! Just some simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

• 1 tablespoons butter
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 3 cups vegetable broth (I like the not-chicken style)
• 4 cups chopped broccoli
• 2 cups 1% milk
• 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
• 1 cup low fat cottage cheese, blended
• Salt & pepper to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this soup is its flexibility! You can easily tailor it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add extra veggies: Throw in some chopped spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost.
• Swap the cheese: Try using different kinds of cheese like gouda or mozzarella for a unique flavor twist.
• Boost the protein further: Add cooked chicken or chickpeas for even more protein.
• Make it spicy: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños if you like a kick!

How to Make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery, cooking them for about 10 minutes. Stir frequently until they soften. Sautéing these vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and forms a great base for your soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic & Spices

Once your veggies are tender, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. The aroma will fill your kitchen! Then sprinkle in the smoked paprika and flour; stir well so that all the vegetables get coated with flour. This step helps thicken your soup later.

Step 3: Pour in Broth & Broccoli

Now it’s time to add the vegetable broth and chopped broccoli. Bring everything to a simmer over medium heat. Letting them simmer allows the broccoli to soften beautifully—about 8-9 minutes should do!

Step 4: Creamy Goodness

Next, pour in the milk and keep cooking on low heat until warmed through. Then, stir in the blended cottage cheese along with shredded cheddar until melted. Be gentle here; high heat might curdle that lovely milk!

Step 5: Blend It Up!

For that creamy texture we all crave, transfer one cup of soup into a blender (remember to let steam escape!). Blend until smooth before returning it back into the pot. If you have an immersion blender on hand, feel free to use that instead!

Step 6: Season & Serve

Finally, taste your soup and add salt as needed. Ladle into bowls and enjoy every spoonful of this deliciously satisfying High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

Pro Tips for Making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Making this soup is a breeze, but a few tips can take it from great to fantastic!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and vegetables enhance the flavor of your soup and provide the best nutrients. Fresh produce will make your dish vibrant and delicious.
• Blend for texture: If you prefer a creamier soup, blending a portion (or all) of the soup creates a luxuriously smooth texture. This not only enhances the mouthfeel but also incorporates more flavor into every bite.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste as you cook and adjust the salt, pepper, or even add a pinch of nutmeg for warmth. This personalization makes the dish truly yours.
• Experiment with cheeses: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique twist. Different cheeses can add depth and complexity to your flavor profile.
• Make it ahead of time: Soups often taste better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare your soup in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat when you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This rich and creamy broccoli cheddar soup deserves to shine at your dinner table! Here are some lovely ways to present it that will impress your family and guests alike.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives or green onions: These add a pop of color and a fresh oniony flavor that complements the cheese beautifully.
• Croutons: A crunchy topping adds texture and an extra layer of flavor. You can use store-bought or make your own with leftover bread.
• A sprinkle of paprika: A dash of smoked paprika on top gives it an appealing look and enhances the smoky undertones of the soup.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Perfect for dipping! The buttery, garlicky goodness pairs wonderfully with creamy soups.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens tossed in a lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup while adding freshness.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized make for an excellent side dish that enhances the overall meal experience.
• Quinoa or brown rice: These whole grains provide additional protein and fiber, making your meal even more satisfying while complementing the flavors of the soup.

Enjoy serving up this delightful High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup; it’s sure to become a favorite in no time!

Make Ahead and Storage

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is perfect for meal prep! It stores beautifully, making it an ideal dish to prepare ahead of time for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy reference.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• To reheat on the stovetop, pour the desired amount into a pot and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in increments of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe!

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

Yes! You can substitute the milk with your favorite plant-based milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative for a delicious dairy-free version.

How much protein is in each serving of High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Each serving contains approximately 20 grams of protein thanks to ingredients like cottage cheese and cheddar cheese, making it a nutritious choice!

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like spinach or cauliflower for extra nutrients and flavor.

How do I thicken my High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, simply blend more of the soup or add an extra tablespoon of flour while cooking!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting and nutritious High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup as much as I do! It’s not only a delicious way to get your veggies but also packs a protein punch that keeps you feeling satisfied. I’m excited for you to try it out and make it your own. Happy cooking!