High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful blend of creamy goodness and nutritional benefits, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re seeking a comforting bowl on a chilly evening or a nutritious meal to fuel your day, this soup has you covered. With 20 grams of protein per serving, it’s a hearty option that both kids and adults will love. Plus, its rich flavor profile makes it an enticing dish for gatherings, family dinners, or meal prep.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Vegetables
• Seasonings
• Liquids
• Cheeses
• Final Touches
• How to Make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• Step 1: Melt the Butter
• Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
• Step 3: Add Garlic
• Step 4: Add Flour and Paprika
• Step 5: Add Broth and Broccoli
• Step 6: Simmer Broccoli
• Step 7: Incorporate Milk
• Step 8: Blend in Cheeses
• Step 9: Blend Soup
• Step 10: Season
• How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• Pair with Crusty Bread
• Add a Protein Boost
• Serve with Salad
• Create a Soup Bar
• 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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
• How can I customize my High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
• Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious Comfort: Packed with 20 grams of protein per serving, this soup keeps you full and satisfied.
• Easy to Make: Quick prep and cooking times make this recipe accessible even on busy days.
• Flavorful and Creamy: The combination of cheddar cheese and cottage cheese creates a rich taste without heavy calories.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or spices to create your own twist on the classic recipe.
• Freezer Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for quick meals later on.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious soup, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

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 cooking the soup evenly and allowing room for all ingredients.
• Blender: Helps achieve that creamy texture by blending part of the soup to enhance its richness.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, ensuring efficient prep time.

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!

Vegetables

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

Seasonings

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Liquids

• 3 cups vegetable broth (I like the not-chicken style)
• 2 cups 1% milk

Cheeses

• 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
• 1 cup low fat cottage cheese, blended

Final Touches

• Salt & pepper to taste

How to Make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Melt the Butter

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

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 3: Add Garlic

Incorporate the minced garlic into the mixture. Continue cooking over medium heat for one more minute.

Step 4: Add Flour and Paprika

Stir in the smoked paprika and flour. Cook for one minute until the vegetables are well-coated with flour.

Step 5: Add Broth and Broccoli

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

Step 6: Simmer Broccoli

Allow the broccoli to simmer for 8-9 minutes until it becomes tender.

Step 7: Incorporate Milk

Add in the milk and cook over low heat until warmed throughout.

Step 8: Blend in Cheeses

Mix in the blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Avoid high heat to prevent curdling.

Step 9: Blend Soup

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

Step 10: Season

Finally, add salt and pepper to taste if needed before serving warm. Enjoy your hearty High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is an opportunity to enhance its flavors and make it a complete meal. There are many ways to enjoy this comforting soup, whether as a starter or a main dish. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch that complements the creamy soup.
• Chives: Provides a mild onion flavor that enhances the overall taste.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough bread: Its tangy flavor pairs perfectly with the richness of the soup.
• Garlic bread: Offers a deliciously buttery and herby crunch, ideal for dipping.

Add a Protein Boost

• Grilled chicken: Slices of grilled chicken breast can be added on top for extra protein.
• Cooked bacon: Crumbled bacon adds a smoky flavor that contrasts well with the creamy texture.

Serve with Salad

• Caesar salad: A classic choice that balances the richness of the soup with crisp greens and tangy dressing.
• Mixed greens: Light and refreshing, mixed greens provide a bright contrast to the hearty soup.

Create a Soup Bar

• Cheese options: Offer additional shredded cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for guests to customize their bowls.
• Croutons and toppings: Provide various crunchy toppings such as croutons or toasted nuts for added texture.

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Perfecting your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is all about enhancing flavors and achieving the right texture. Follow these tips for an even more delightful experience.

• Use fresh broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives your soup better flavor and nutrition compared to frozen.
• Blend thoroughly: For a creamier texture, blend half of the soup before mixing it back in. This creates a smooth consistency while keeping some chunks for texture.
• Adjust seasoning generously: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or even lemon juice for brightness.
• Experiment with cheese types: Try different cheeses like Gruyère or fontina for unique flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Complementing your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup with delicious side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic side that offers buttery goodness perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Parmesan cheese and croutons brings freshness and crunch.
3. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious option packed with protein; add veggies and a light vinaigrette dressing for extra flavor.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Filled with rice or quinoa and veggies, these can serve as a filling side alongside your soup.
5. Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients, making them a lovely pairing.
6. Cheese Toasts: Simple toasted bread topped with melted cheese makes for delightful bites alongside each spoonful of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best recipes can go awry if you make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to avoid when making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

• Skipping the sautéing step: Sautéing the vegetables enhances their flavor. Don’t rush this step; allow them to soften and develop a richer taste.

• Not blending enough: For a creamy texture, ensure you blend the soup thoroughly. If you leave too many chunks, it won’t achieve that smooth consistency.

• Using high-fat milk: While whole milk can be tempting, it can lead to a heavy soup. Stick to 1% or low-fat milk for a lighter, healthier option without sacrificing flavor.

• Overcooking the broccoli: Cooking broccoli too long can turn it mushy and dull in color. Aim for just 8-9 minutes of simmering for tender yet vibrant pieces.

• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Not tasting your soup before serving can result in blandness. Always check and adjust salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor.

• Ignoring storage guidelines: Improper storage can affect freshness. Make sure to cool the soup completely before refrigerating or freezing, and use airtight containers.

PIN THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• This soup freezes beautifully!
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for best results.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your containers!

Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, ensuring it doesn’t boil.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup healthy?

This recipe incorporates low-fat dairy options and plenty of broccoli, providing essential nutrients while keeping calories in check.

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh broccoli is great for this recipe. Just make sure it’s chopped into small pieces for even cooking.

How can I customize my High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Feel free to add other veggies like spinach or carrots or swap out cheddar cheese for a different variety like gouda or pepper jack!

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup stores well in the fridge and freezer, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only delicious but also versatile enough to fit various dietary needs. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting seasonings. Give this comforting recipe a try; it’s perfect for cozy evenings or meal prepping!