High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delight for both your taste buds and your health. Packed with 20 grams of protein per serving, it transforms traditional comfort food into a nutritious powerhouse. Perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, or even as a filling lunch, this soup’s creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it irresistible while sneaking in healthy ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Comfort Food: Indulge in the rich flavors of broccoli cheddar soup without compromising your health.
• High in Protein: Each bowl contains a generous amount of protein, making it a great option for muscle recovery and satiety.
• Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes total time, you can whip up this delicious soup on a busy weeknight.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the recipe by adding your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this creamy and cheesy dish, making it perfect for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have the right tools for the job. Having these essentials will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Blender (or immersion blender)
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking all ingredients evenly and allows ample space for blending later.
• Blender: Necessary for achieving that creamy consistency; an immersion blender is also a great alternative.
• Cutting board & knife: Essential for preparing your vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

This rich and creamy broccoli cheddar soup is secretly healthy, with 20 grams of protein per serving! It’s the perfect comfort food recipe!

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
• 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat until bubbly.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 10 minutes until softened, stirring frequently.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour and Paprika

Add the smoked paprika and flour. Stir continuously for one minute until all vegetables are coated with flour.

Step 5: Pour in Broth and Broccoli

Pour in the vegetable broth along with the chopped broccoli. Bring to a simmer.

Step 6: Simmer Until Tender

Simmer the mixture for about 8-9 minutes until the broccoli has softened.

Step 7: Add Milk

Stir in the milk and lower the heat to warm through without boiling.

Step 8: Mix in Cheeses

Add the blended cottage cheese along with shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted but be careful not to let it curdle.

Step 9: Blend Part of the Soup

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

Step 10: Season to Taste

Finally, add salt and pepper as needed before serving. Enjoy your high protein broccoli cheddar soup!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delicious and nutritious option that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it classic or add a twist, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked baguette – Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Garlic bread – Adds a flavorful kick and pairs well with the cheesy goodness.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped chives – Adds a mild onion flavor and fresh color.
• Cilantro – Offers a unique twist; great for those who enjoy its distinct taste.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Store in individual containers – Makes for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
• Freeze leftovers – Enjoy later by reheating on the stove or in the microwave.

With a Dollop of Sour Cream

• Regular sour cream – Adds tanginess that complements the flavors.
• Greek yogurt – A healthier alternative that also boosts protein content.

How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To ensure your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh broccoli: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture compared to frozen options.
• Blend for creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a smooth texture while retaining chunky bits for interest.
• Monitor heat carefully: Avoid high heat when adding cheese to prevent curdling; low and slow is best.
• Experiment with spices: Add cayenne pepper or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.
• Adjust thickness: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
• Taste before serving: Always check seasoning before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing side dishes with your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garden Salad – A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the soup.
2. Grilled Cheese Sandwich – The classic combination of gooey cheese between toasted bread makes for a comforting pairing.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil add color and nutrients to your meal.
4. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed salad with grains, veggies, and lemon dressing adds freshness.
5. Pita Chips – Crunchy pita chips provide a nice contrast to the creamy soup texture.
6. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful balance against savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be simple, but there are a few common errors to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Broccoli: Broccoli should be tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on it while simmering to maintain its bright color and nutritional value.
• Using Too Much Heat: Heating the soup too quickly can cause the milk to curdle. Always keep the heat low when adding dairy ingredients.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Salt and pepper enhance flavors. Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed for the best flavor.
• Skipping the Blending Step: Blending part of the soup gives it a creamy texture. Don’t skip this step if you want a richer consistency.
• Ignoring Ingredient Substitutions: If you’re dairy-free or gluten-free, use appropriate substitutes. This way, everyone can enjoy your healthy broccoli cheddar soup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss and maintain freshness.

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to avoid freezer burn. Leave some space at the top for expansion.

Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and heat until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium-low heat. Stir frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories are in High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

This delicious recipe contains approximately 344 calories per serving, making it a nutritious option for any meal.

Can I customize the High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Absolutely! You can add proteins like chicken or beans, or toss in other vegetables such as spinach or peas for added nutrition and flavor.

What types of cheese work best for this soup?

While cheddar cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.

Is this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup stores well in both the refrigerator and freezer, making it perfect for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it your own! Try this recipe today, and enjoy a warm bowl of goodness that’s sure to please everyone at your table.

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High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the creamy goodness of High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, a delightful fusion of flavor and nutrition that will satisfy both your cravings and health goals. Each bowl is packed with 20 grams of protein, making it an ideal choice for muscle recovery or a filling lunch.

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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
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 4 cups chopped broccoli
• 2 cups 1% milk
• 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese, blended
• Salt & pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery for about 10 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add flour and smoked paprika; stir for one minute to coat the vegetables.
5. Pour in vegetable broth and add broccoli; bring to a simmer.
6. Simmer for 8–9 minutes until broccoli is tender.
7. Stir in milk; lower heat to warm through without boiling.
8. Mix in cheddar cheese and blended cottage cheese until melted.
9. Blend one cup of the soup until smooth; return to pot or use an immersion blender directly.
10. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 340g)
• Calories: 344
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Use fresh broccoli for better flavor and texture. Blend part of the soup for creaminess while keeping some chunks intact. Monitor heat carefully when adding dairy to avoid curdling.