High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will warm you right up! Perfect for lunch or dinner, this creamy soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a healthy boost with 20 grams of protein per serving. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time of the year, whether you’re looking for comfort food on a chilly day or a nutritious option to fuel your afternoon.

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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 Creaminess
• For Seasoning
• 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
• With Crusty Bread
• Topped with Extra Cheese
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs
• Accompanied by a Side Salad
• Served in Bread Bowls
• With Protein Additions
• 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 make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegetarian?
• How can I customize my High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
• Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?
• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein, this soup keeps you full without compromising on flavor.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup with your favorite veggies or additional spices to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this creamy, cheesy soup!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather all the necessary tools for smooth preparation. Having everything ready will make cooking more enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Crucial for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup evenly.
• Blender: Helps achieve that creamy texture by blending part of the soup smoothly.
• Cutting board & Knife: Essential for chopping veggies quickly and safely.

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

For Creaminess

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

For Seasoning

• 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. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Add Broth and Broccoli

Pour in the vegetable broth along with the chopped broccoli. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 8–9 minutes 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. Mix gently until everything is melted together. Avoid boiling as it may curdle.

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 back to the pot; stir well. Alternatively, use an immersion blender for a creamier texture while keeping some chunks intact.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste your delicious soup! Adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top, then enjoy your nutritious bowl of goodness!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful way to enjoy this creamy, nutritious dish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or enjoying a cozy meal at home, there are various ways to elevate your soup experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette: Pair the soup with warm, crusty bread for dipping. The texture complements the creamy soup perfectly.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Cheddar or Parmesan: Sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top just before serving. This adds an extra layer of flavor and richness.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Chives or Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh herbs can brighten up the dish and add a pop of color.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.

Served in Bread Bowls

• Edible Bowls: For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread rolls. This makes for an impressive presentation and adds flavor.

With Protein Additions

• Grilled Chicken or Bacon: Adding grilled chicken slices or crispy bacon bits on top increases protein content and adds texture.

How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To achieve the best version of High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, follow these simple tips. They will help enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Bold Flavors: Use sharp cheddar cheese for maximum flavor. This enhances the overall taste of your soup.
• Creamy Texture: Blend the cottage cheese until smooth before adding it to the soup. This ensures a creamy consistency without heavy cream.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed after cooking. Each ingredient varies in its saltiness.
• Customize Thickness: If you prefer a thinner soup, gradually add more vegetable broth until you reach your desired consistency.
• Slow Reheat: When reheating leftovers, do so on low heat. This prevents curdling and keeps your soup creamy.
• Freeze Wisely: If freezing, use airtight containers and leave some space for expansion. Thaw slowly in the fridge overnight before reheating.

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Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your creamy soup.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crunchy romaine lettuce with a tangy dressing that complements the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your meal.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad brings additional protein and fiber, making for a balanced meal.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or meat provide an enticing side option.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying crunch alongside the smooth soup.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the soup.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances out the richness of the broccoli cheddar soup nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, avoiding common pitfalls can greatly enhance your results.

• Not sautéing vegetables properly: Skipping the sauté step can lead to underdeveloped flavors. Always ensure your vegetables are softened before adding other ingredients.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese can affect the taste and texture of your soup. Opt for sharp cheddar to maximize flavor.
• Boiling after adding dairy: Boiling the soup after adding milk and cheese may cause curdling. Keep the heat low and stir gently to maintain creaminess.
• Skipping the blending step: Not blending part of the soup results in a less creamy texture. Blend at least one cup to achieve that rich consistency.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasonings can leave your soup bland. Always taste before serving, adding salt and pepper as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 4 days for best quality.

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Use within 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and reheat for 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over low heat in a pot, stirring frequently. This method helps retain creaminess better than others.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup healthy?

This soup is packed with protein from cottage cheese and cheddar while using fresh broccoli for essential nutrients.

Can I make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegetarian?

Yes! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it uses vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How can I customize my High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Feel free to add cooked chicken, ham, or different veggies like spinach or cauliflower for added nutrition and flavor.

Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour in the recipe.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen broccoli works well. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since it’s typically pre-blanched.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy it as a hearty lunch or dinner option that’s both comforting and nutritious!

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