High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from a cozy weeknight dinner to a hearty lunch. Packed with 20 grams of protein per serving, this soup is not just creamy and rich; it also sneaks in plenty of nutrition. With its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, you and your loved ones will enjoy every spoonful.

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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 the Soup Base
• 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
• Enjoy with Crusty Bread
• Garnish for Extra Flavor
• Add Protein Boosts
• 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
• What makes this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup healthy?
• Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
• How do I customize my High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
• What are some side dishes that pair well with this soup?
• How long does it take to make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious Boost: Each serving contains 20 grams of protein, making it a great choice for those looking to increase their protein intake.
• Versatile Meal Option: Perfect for lunch or dinner, this soup can be paired with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this delightful soup in no time.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of cheddar cheese and smoked paprika adds depth and richness that will warm your soul.
• Adjustable Thickness: Customize the consistency to your liking by adding more broth or blending more for creaminess.

Tools and Preparation

To make this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup, allowing even heat distribution.
• Blender: Helps achieve a creamy texture by blending part of the soup. An immersion blender offers convenience without transferring hot liquid.

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.

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, 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 the heat to low. Stir in the milk, blended cottage cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated. Be careful not to let the soup boil as high heat can cause the milk to curdle.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess

Transfer 1 cup of soup to a blender and blend until smooth, allowing steam to escape through the vent. Return the blended soup to the pot and stir to combine. Alternatively, use an immersion blender to gently blend part of the soup while leaving some chunks intact.

Step 6: Season and Serve

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

With its comforting flavors and high protein content, this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is sure to become a new favorite at your table!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can elevate your meal experience. This creamy, protein-packed soup pairs wonderfully with various sides and toppings that enhance its flavor.

Enjoy with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: The tangy flavor complements the soup’s creaminess.
• Garlic Bread: Adds a savory crunch that balances the rich texture of the soup.

Garnish for Extra Flavor

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Try parsley or chives for a fresh burst of flavor.
• Extra Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar on top just before serving for an indulgent touch.

Add Protein Boosts

• Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken can provide additional protein and heartiness.
• Bacon Bits: Crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with broccoli cheddar.

How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Perfecting your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is simple with a few tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli enhances the flavor and nutrients compared to frozen options.
• Blend Cottage Cheese Smoothly: Ensure the cottage cheese is blended until smooth for a creamy texture without extra fat.
• Control Heat Carefully: Keep the heat low when adding dairy to avoid curdling and maintain a silky consistency.
• Taste Before Serving: Adjust salt and pepper levels to suit your preference, enhancing overall flavor.

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Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing side dishes with your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can create a satisfying meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
2. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These soft biscuits add a delicious cheesy touch and are perfect for dipping.
3. Roasted Veggies: Seasoned roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts complement the soup’s flavors while providing additional nutrients.
4. Quinoa Salad: A cold quinoa salad with cucumbers and feta adds protein and texture to your meal.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa provide extra heartiness alongside your soup.
6. Fruit Platter: A selection of seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate after each bowl of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Failing to sauté your vegetables properly can result in a bland soup. Always cook them until softened to enhance flavors.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Not all cheese melts the same. Use good quality cheddar for better taste and texture in your soup.
• Overcooking the Broccoli: Cooking broccoli too long can make it mushy. Aim for just tender broccoli to keep that vibrant green color and fresh flavor.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Forgetting to taste and season your soup can leave it flat. Always check for salt and pepper before serving.
• Blending Too Much: Over-blending can turn your soup into a puree. Leave some chunks for texture and enjoyment.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered with foil for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a pot, stirring frequently to avoid curdling.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup healthy?

This soup is healthy because it includes low-fat cottage cheese and plenty of broccoli, providing protein without heavy cream.

Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used instead of fresh. Just add it directly to the pot without thawing.

How do I customize my High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

You can customize this soup by adding cooked chicken or ham, or even spices like cayenne pepper for extra heat.

What are some side dishes that pair well with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a light salad, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal.

How long does it take to make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

This recipe takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Final Thoughts

High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adjust ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. Try adding different veggies or proteins to make it your own!