High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not just another soup; it’s a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort and nutrition into one bowl. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this rich and creamy soup is packed with 20 grams of protein per serving, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to boost their protein intake while enjoying a classic favorite. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly day or as a hearty meal prep option, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table.

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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 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
• Pair with Crusty Bread
• Add a Fresh Salad
• Top with Garnishes
• Serve in Different Bowls
• 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
• Can I make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup ahead of time?
• What makes this broccoli cheddar soup high protein?
• Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
• How do I customize my High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
• Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Twist: This soup is a nutritious version of the classic with hidden protein from cottage cheese.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in less than 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap out veggies or add your favorite proteins for customization.
• Creamy without Guilt: Enjoy the creamy texture without heavy cream, thanks to blended cottage cheese.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your kitchen tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Blender (or immersion blender)
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup evenly.
• Blender: Helps achieve the creamy texture by blending some of the soup until smooth.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop all your fresh ingredients efficiently.

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.

Ingredients:
* 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, if needed)
* 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 3 cups vegetable broth (preferably 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 until smooth
* 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 milk, blended cottage cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently until melted. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess

Transfer 1 cup of soup to a blender. Blend until smooth while allowing steam to escape through the vent. Return blended soup to pot and stir to combine. Alternatively, use an immersion blender for desired creaminess.

Step 6: Season and Serve

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

Enjoy this comforting soup as a nutritious and protein-packed option for any meal!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving high protein broccoli cheddar soup can elevate your meal experience. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, consider these delightful suggestions to enhance your soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: The tangy flavor complements the creamy soup perfectly.
• Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery treat that adds a delicious crunch.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and savory dressing balance the richness of the soup.
• Garden Salad: A mix of fresh vegetables and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.

Top with Garnishes

• Chopped Chives: These add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
• Extra Cheddar Cheese: A sprinkle on top takes the cheesy goodness to the next level.

Serve in Different Bowls

• Bread Bowls: For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread loaves.
• Mason Jars: Great for individual servings, adding a rustic touch.

How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To make your high protein broccoli cheddar soup truly stand out, keep these tips in mind.

• Bold Flavoring: Enhance the flavor by using fresh herbs or spices like thyme or rosemary.
• Creamier Texture: Blend an extra half cup of cottage cheese for an even richer consistency.
• Vegetable Varieties: Experiment with other veggies like spinach or peas for added nutrition.
• Cheese Variations: Try different cheeses such as gouda or pepper jack for unique flavors.

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Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Complement your high protein broccoli cheddar soup with these delicious side dishes. They will round out your meal beautifully.

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing that adds indulgence to your meal.
2. Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa mixed with vegetables offers a nutritious boost.
3. Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide sweetness and texture contrast.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy wedges seasoned with herbs create a satisfying crunch.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with grains and beans are hearty and healthy.
6. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad can be refreshing alongside the warm soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes that affect the flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing vegetables first enhances their flavors. Always cook onions, carrots, and celery until softened for a rich base.
• Using low-quality cheese: Low-quality cheese can lead to a bland soup. Opt for sharp cheddar for the best flavor.
• Ignoring blending instructions: Not blending the cottage cheese can result in lumps. Ensure you blend it until smooth for creaminess without heavy cream.
• Boiling the soup after adding milk: High heat can curdle the milk. Lower the heat after adding dairy ingredients to maintain a creamy texture.
• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning may leave your soup flat. Always season with salt and pepper to enhance flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers for storage.
• Keep the soup frozen for up to 3 months. Be aware that texture changes may occur upon thawing.

Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute increments until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat over low-medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup ahead of time?

You can prepare this soup a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

What makes this broccoli cheddar soup high protein?

The addition of cottage cheese blended into the soup increases its protein content without adding heavy cream.

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute fresh broccoli with frozen broccoli, though cooking time may vary slightly.

How do I customize my High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Feel free to add proteins like shredded chicken or ham or extra veggies like spinach or cauliflower for more variety.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, by using gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour, you can make this soup gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not just delicious; it also packs a nutritious punch with each serving. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a versatile choice for lunch or dinner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or proteins to suit your taste!

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