High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

If you’re looking for a warm hug in a bowl, then this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is just what you need! It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings. What I love most about this soup is that it secretly boasts 20 grams of protein per serving, so you can enjoy it guilt-free. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight dinner or sharing it with family on a cozy weekend, this recipe will surely become a staple in your kitchen.

This soup is also versatile enough to fit any occasion. It’s great as a hearty lunch or as part of a comforting dinner spread. So grab your favorite bowl and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious pot of soup ready in under 35 minutes!
• Family-Friendly: Kids (and adults) love the cheesy goodness of this soup—it’s a fun way to sneak in some veggies.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Nutritious Comfort Food: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup fills you up without weighing you down.
• Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to bring this delightful dish to life. You might already have many of these staples in your kitchen!

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)

For the Creamy Texture

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

To Finish

• Salt & pepper to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is how flexible it can be! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have available.

• Add extra veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for an additional nutrient boost.
• Swap the cheese: Try using different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Gouda for unique flavors.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some jalapeño for an extra kick.
• Use different proteins: Stir in some cooked chicken or beans if you’re looking to vary your protein sources.

How to Make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Sauté Your Vegetables

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. This step is crucial because sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery together creates a flavorful base for your soup. Cook these veggies for about 10 minutes until they’re tender and fragrant.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Once your vegetables are soft, add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute. The garlic will bring an amazing aroma to your kitchen! Then sprinkle in the smoked paprika and flour, stirring well so that everything gets coated evenly. This will help thicken our soup later on.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Broccoli

Next, add the vegetable broth and chopped broccoli to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cooking the broccoli for about 8-9 minutes helps soften it perfectly while keeping some texture.

Step 4: Stir In Milk

Now it’s time for creaminess! Pour in the milk while cooking over low heat until warm. Be careful here; we want our milk smooth without curdling!

Step 5: Blend In Cheese

Add both the blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese into the mix. Stir continuously until everything melts together beautifully—this is where all that cheesy goodness comes from!

Step 6: Blend for Texture

For an extra creamy consistency, transfer one cup of soup to a blender (remember to allow steam to escape). Blend until smooth before returning it back to the pot. If you prefer chunkier soup, feel free to skip this step!

Step 7: Season and Serve

Lastly, season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Serve hot and enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creating the perfect bowl of high protein broccoli cheddar soup is all about technique and a little love in the kitchen! Here are some pro tips to ensure your soup turns out creamy and delicious every time.

• Prep Your Veggies Ahead: Chopping your vegetables in advance saves time during cooking and ensures that everything cooks evenly. This makes for a fuss-free cooking experience!
• Don’t Skip the Blending: Blending a portion of the soup not only adds a creamy texture but also helps integrate the flavors beautifully. If you prefer a chunkier soup, just blend half or even a third of it!
• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli will bring vibrant color and flavor to your soup. While frozen can work in a pinch, fresh veggies elevate the dish with their nutritional benefits and crunch.
• Adjust Cheese to Taste: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or adjust the amount based on your personal preference. Adding more cheese will increase creaminess, while using less will keep it lighter.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adding salt and pepper gradually allows you to control the flavors better, ensuring that your soup isn’t too salty or bland.

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving your high protein broccoli cheddar soup can turn it from just a meal into an experience! Here are some delightful ways to present this comforting dish that will impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors.
• Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons give an enjoyable crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture of the soup.
• Extra Cheese: A small handful of shredded cheese on top right before serving can enhance flavor and make the dish look extra inviting.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping! Consider sourdough or whole grain for added texture and heartiness.
• Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup while adding freshness—try mixed greens with sliced cucumbers and cherry tomatoes.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serving roasted seasonal vegetables on the side not only adds variety but also boosts nutrition. Think carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini tossed in olive oil and herbs.
• Quinoa Salad: A chilled quinoa salad mixed with diced veggies and a tangy dressing brings an added layer of flavor and nutrition, making it a delightful pairing with your warm soup.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create an inviting meal that’s both comforting and nourishing. Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to handle leftovers and keep this delicious soup fresh.

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 your container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the soup cool and pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the containers for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each interval to ensure even heating.
• Add a splash of milk if the soup has thickened during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this comforting recipe:

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

Yes! Substitute the milk with almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives for a delicious dairy-free version.

How much protein is in High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

This soup packs an impressive 20 grams of protein per serving, making it a great option for those looking to boost their protein intake.

Can I use frozen broccoli in this soup?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just add it directly into the pot without thawing.

What can I serve with High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with whole grain bread or a simple side salad for a heartier meal.

Is High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for meal prepping.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a comforting dish; it’s also packed with nutrition that makes you feel good inside and out. Enjoy every creamy spoonful, and don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings or sides! Happy cooking!