As I ladle a generous bowl of this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, the warm aroma wafts through my kitchen, instantly transforming it into a cozy haven. This soup is not just comforting—it also packs a punch with its high protein content, thanks to a secret twist of creamy cottage cheese. In just under 30 minutes, you can enjoy a nutritious meal that warms both heart and soul, making it an ideal choice for those busy evenings. With its velvety texture and perfectly balanced flavors, this recipe offers a deliciously light alternative to traditional creamy soups, proving that wholesome and satisfying can go hand in hand. Curious about how to make your own version? Let’s dive in!
Why is this soup a must-try?
Nutritious Delight: This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is brimming with healthy goodness—packed with fiber-filled broccoli and protein-rich cottage cheese, it’s a meal that’s both satisfying and smart.
Quick to Prepare: In less than 30 minutes, you can have a heartwarming bowl ready, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions.
Flavorful Twist: The combination of sharp cheddar and rich cottage cheese elevates the standard broccoli cheddar, creating a creamy texture without excess fat.
Versatile Options: Feel free to use frozen broccoli or swap out ingredients for what you have on hand—make it your own!
Crowd Pleaser: This soup isn’t just for health enthusiasts; it’s delicious enough to impress everyone at your table. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Broccoli – a vibrant, nutrient-rich veggie that gives the soup its signature flavor and color; fresh or frozen works great!
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese – adds a robust, creamy richness; opt for aged varieties for a deeper taste.
• Cottage Cheese – boosts protein content while keeping the creaminess light; can substitute ricotta for a similar texture.
• Vegetable Broth – the flavorful liquid base; swap in chicken broth for a non-vegetarian alternative.
• Butter – perfect for sautéing and creating a rich base; replace with olive oil for a dairy-free version.
• Onion, Carrots, Celery – the aromatic trio that forms the flavor foundation; feel free to use leeks for a milder taste.
• Garlic – invigorates the dish with a fragrant note; fresh garlic is recommended for maximum aroma.
For Thickening and Creaminess
• Flour – essential for thickening the soup; try a gluten-free blend for a suitable option.
• Milk – enriches the soup's creamy texture; almond or oat milk works for a dairy-free choice.
For Seasoning
• Smoked Paprika – brings a subtle smokiness that beautifully complements the cheese; regular paprika can be used instead.
• Salt and Pepper – to taste, enhancing the overall flavor of the soup.
Indulge in this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup that promises both comfort and nutrition—an inviting bowl awaits you!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until bubbly. Add 1 diced onion, 2 chopped carrots, and 2 stalks of diced celery to the pot. Sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently until the vegetables are softened and the onion becomes translucent, creating a fragrant base for your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices
Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 1 minute, allowing the garlic to release its aromatic oils. Next, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and 2 tablespoons of flour, stirring constantly. Cook this mixture for 1 minute to activate the flour, which will help thicken the soup as it cooks.
Step 3: Incorporate the Broth and Broccoli
Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth, scraping any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot. Add 4 cups of chopped broccoli, whether fresh or frozen, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 8–9 minutes, until the broccoli is tender and bright green, releasing its delicious aroma into your kitchen.
Step 4: Blend for Creaminess
Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of blended cottage cheese. Mix until the cottage cheese melts and the mixture is creamy. To enhance the silky texture of your soup, carefully ladle out about 1 cup of the soup and blend it until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot, stirring well to combine.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Taste your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup and season with salt and pepper to your preference. Allow it to warm through on low heat for a couple more minutes. Once everything is heated and creamy, serve the soup hot, garnished with extra cheese or herbs if desired, and enjoy a wholesome, nutritious meal!
What to Serve with High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Indulging in a bowl of creamy goodness is just the beginning; let’s complete your meal with delightful pairings that elevate your dining experience.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, the chewy texture of crusty bread soaks up the delicious soup, offering a satisfying bite with every mouthful.
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Garlic Knots: These soft, buttery knots bring a delightful twist of flavor; their aromatic allure makes them the ultimate companion for this hearty soup.
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Mixed Greens Salad: A fresh salad with a zesty lemon vinaigrette adds a light crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soup's creaminess, balancing your meal perfectly.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized, tender veggies not only enhance the nutritional profile but also introduce a sweet depth of flavor, harmonizing with your soup’s cheesiness.
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Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche filled with spinach or mushrooms provides a rich, savory element that complements the lighter elements of the High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup wonderfully.
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Sparkling Water or Herbal Tea: For a refreshing drink, choose sparkling water with a slice of lemon, or a soothing cup of herbal tea—both elevate the entire dining experience.
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Fruit Sorbet: End your meal on a sweet, refreshing note with a scoop of fruit sorbet. It cleanses the palate and leaves a delightful echo of flavor, perfect after a comforting bowl of soup.
Each pairing not only satisfies your taste buds but also turns this nourishing soup into a complete, memorable meal!
How to Store and Freeze High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Fridge: Store your leftover High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup in airtight containers for up to 4 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and delicious for your next meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Remember to leave out the cheddar cheese until reheating to preserve its texture!
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Enjoy Fresh: For the best taste and texture, consume the soup within the specified timeframes, ensuring you experience its creamy goodness at its finest!
Expert Tips for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• Heat Control: Keep the heat low when adding dairy to prevent curdling, ensuring a smooth, creamy consistency in your soup.
• Blend It Smooth: Blend the cottage cheese until completely smooth before adding it to the soup. This guarantees a velvety texture without any lumps.
• Storage Savvy: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days; gently reheat on the stove for the best flavor and texture.
• Freezing Tip: For freezing, hold off on adding cheddar until you reheat the soup to maintain its creamy texture when served.
• Ingredient Flexibility: Feel free to swap fresh broccoli for frozen, or choose a gluten-free flour alternative to suit your dietary needs while making this high protein broccoli cheddar soup.
Make Ahead Options
These High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup preparations are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts who want to save time on busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables and mix the spices up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the soup base (steps 1 through 3) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply heat the soup base on medium heat, then stir in the milk and cottage cheese (step 4) until creamy. For freezing, consider omitting the cheese until you’re ready to reheat, ensuring your soup maintains its delightful texture and flavor just as delicious as when freshly made!
High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this comforting soup to your taste!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute cottage cheese with silken tofu blended until smooth for a creamy, dairy-free option. You can still enjoy the luscious texture without the dairy!
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Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the soup without compromising taste. Your loved ones will never know the difference!
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Extra Protein: Stir in cooked quinoa or lentils after blending for a heartier soup packed with protein. This twist not only boosts nutrition but also adds unique texture.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the heat level. It gives a delightful kick that pairs perfectly with cheddar cheese!
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or dill while simmering for an aromatic boost. Fresh herbs add a layer of complexity that brightens every spoonful!
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Creamy Mushroom Variation: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor profile and creaminess. It’s a lovely way to introduce a new dimension to the classic broccoli cheddar combination.
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Veggie Boost: Consider adding a mix of vegetables such as spinach or peas for extra vitamins and color. The vibrant greens not only look appealing but also enhance the nutritional value!
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Smoky Flavor: Use smoked Gouda cheese instead of sharp cheddar for a rich, smoky twist. It’ll change the flavor game and impress anyone who takes a spoonful!
As you explore these variations, don’t hesitate to pair your soup with a slice of hearty crusty bread or a bright, refreshing salad for a full meal experience!
High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best broccoli for this soup?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli should be vibrant green and firm, with no dark spots or wilting. If you opt for frozen, ensure it’s from a reputable brand and looks evenly colored to guarantee nutrients and flavor.
How can I store leftovers of this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Store your leftover soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for you to enjoy later. Simply reheat gently on the stove over low heat for the best quality!
Can I freeze the High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Yes, very! To freeze, pour the cooled soup into airtight containers or freezer bags and leave out the cheddar cheese. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on low heat, stirring occasionally, then add the cheddar cheese for that creamy texture.
What if my soup is too thick?
If your soup turns out thicker than you’d like, simply stir in extra vegetable broth or milk a little at a time until you achieve your desired consistency. This allows you to customize the texture while keeping the delightful flavors intact.
Is this soup suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes, indeed! This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be made dairy-free by using almond or oat milk and subbing dairy-free cheese options. For gluten-free diets, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch—and feel free to adjust ingredients to suit your needs!
Creamy High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup That's Guilt-Free
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until bubbly. Add 1 diced onion, 2 chopped carrots, and 2 stalks of diced celery. Sauté for about 10 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute. Then sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and 2 tablespoons of flour, stirring constantly.
- Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and add 4 cups of chopped broccoli. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 8-9 minutes until broccoli is tender.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of blended cottage cheese. Blend a cup of soup until smooth and return it to the pot.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, warm through, and serve hot garnished with extra cheese or herbs as desired.
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