High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, look no further than this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup! This creamy delight is not only delicious but also packs a punch with 20 grams of protein per serving. It’s the kind of recipe that comes to mind when you think of comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where everyone gathers around the table to enjoy something truly special.

What makes this soup even better? It’s simple to whip up and uses wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a group, this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup will surely be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Satisfying: Enjoy the rich flavor without the guilt; it’s secretly packed with protein!
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, this recipe fits perfectly into any busy schedule.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love cheesy soups, and this one is no exception—plus, they won’t even realize they’re eating their veggies!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week; it stores well in the fridge or freezer.
• Deliciously Versatile: You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences or pantry staples.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup. You’ll find everything here easy to work with and likely already in your pantry!

For the Soup Base

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

For Thickening and Flavor

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 3 cups vegetable broth (the not-chicken style is great!)
• 4 cups chopped broccoli

For Creaminess

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

Seasoning

• Salt & pepper to taste

Variations

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is super flexible. Feel free to adjust it to fit your tastes or what you have on hand!

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost.
• Make it Spicy: A pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
• Swap the Cheese: Try using different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or vegan cheese for a unique twist.
• Creamier Texture: Blend more of the soup for a smoother finish if you prefer less chunkiness.

How to Make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook these veggies for about 10 minutes until they soften. This step builds a flavorful base that enhances every bite of your soup!

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Next, throw in the minced garlic and continue cooking for just one minute. Then, sprinkle in the smoked paprika and flour. Stir well so that all those lovely vegetables get coated with flour! This thickens the soup beautifully while adding depth to its flavor.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth and Broccoli

Pour in the vegetable broth along with the chopped broccoli. Let everything come to a simmer and cook for about 8-9 minutes until the broccoli is tender. This brings out the natural sweetness of broccoli while it absorbs all those tasty flavors from earlier!

Step 4: Creamy Goodness

Reduce the heat to low before adding milk; we want it warm but not boiling! Then mix in both cottage cheese and shredded cheddar until they melt into creamy perfection. Be gentle here; high heat can curdle your milk.

Step 5: Blend It Up!

For that perfect velvety texture, transfer one cup of soup to a blender (remember to let steam escape!). Blend away until smooth and then return it back to your pot. Alternatively, use an immersion blender right in the pot for convenience.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your soup before serving. Add salt and pepper as needed. This final touch ensures everything is just right before you dive into this comforting bowl of goodness!

Enjoy every spoonful of your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup—it’s sure to become a new favorite!

Pro Tips for Making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Making a delicious and creamy broccoli cheddar soup is easier than you think! Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh broccoli: Fresh broccoli not only brings vibrant color to your soup but also enhances the flavor and nutritional value. If you can, choose organic broccoli for the best taste.

• Blend the cottage cheese well: Blending the cottage cheese until smooth before adding it to the soup ensures a creamy texture without any lumps. This method keeps your soup velvety and rich.

• Control the heat: Cooking on low heat once you’ve added the milk helps prevent curdling. High heat can cause dairy to separate, so take it slow for a beautifully creamy broth.

• Customize with spices: Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or cayenne pepper for an extra kick. These spices can elevate the flavor profile of your soup, making it uniquely yours.

• Make it ahead of time: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep. The flavors meld together beautifully after sitting overnight!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving your high protein broccoli cheddar soup can turn a simple dish into a delightful experience. Here are some ideas to enhance your presentation and enjoyment.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives or green onions: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons add a satisfying crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy soup.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle on top just before serving not only makes it look appealing but also adds a touch of richness.

Side Dishes

• Whole grain bread: A slice of warm whole grain bread is perfect for dipping into your soup, adding texture and heartiness to your meal.
• Mixed greens salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup while providing a refreshing balance.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts offer additional nutrients and flavor that pair well with this cheesy delight.
• Quinoa or brown rice: Serving a small portion of quinoa or brown rice on the side boosts protein content further and makes your meal even more filling.

Enjoy these serving suggestions along with your high protein broccoli cheddar soup for a delightful dining experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and have it ready for busy weeknights or quick lunches.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• When storing, place a piece of parchment paper between the soup and the lid to avoid condensation dripping into the soup.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down before pouring it into freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top of the container since liquids expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date so you can keep track!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating if frozen.
• Heat on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this creamy soup!

Can I make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegan?

Absolutely! You can substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter, use plant-based milk, and replace cheddar cheese with your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative.

How much protein does High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup contain?

Each serving of this delicious soup contains about 20 grams of protein, making it a hearty option for a nutritious meal.

Can I add other vegetables to my High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Yes! Feel free to customize by adding vegetables such as cauliflower, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just be sure not to overcrowd the pot!

How can I make my High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup thicker?

For a thicker consistency, simply blend more of the soup after cooking or add an extra tablespoon of flour during the cooking process.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup as much as I do! It’s rich, creamy, and secretly healthy—perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your additions! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try this comforting recipe!