High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting yet nourishing bowl that doesn’t compromise on flavor, this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is an absolute winner. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with wholesome ingredients that work together to warm you up from the inside out while delivering a satisfying protein boost. Whether you’re craving a cozy lunch or a lighter dinner, this soup hits all the right notes with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, and the unexpected addition of cottage cheese for that extra creaminess and protein punch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, real-food ingredients is the key to unlocking the magic of this soup. Each component plays its part in balancing taste, texture, and nutrition, making the entire preparation rewarding and straightforward.

• 1 tablespoon butter: Provides a rich base flavor and helps sauté the vegetables to sweet perfection.
• 1 large yellow onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and depth that forms the flavor foundation.
• 2 large carrots, peeled and diced: Bring subtle sweetness and vibrant orange hues to brighten the dish.
• 1 stalk celery, diced: Offers a slight crunch and an aromatic touch to complement the veggies.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses savory warmth that enhances every other flavor.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour): Essential for thickening the soup to that creamy consistency we all crave.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a gentle smoky undertone that elevates the overall taste.
• 3 cups vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid base, choose a rich “not-chicken style” broth for depth.
• 4 cups chopped broccoli: The star veggie loaded with vitamins, texture, and vibrant color.
• 2 cups 1% milk: Keeps the soup creamy without being too heavy.
• 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (~1 cup): Gives that classic cheesy punch with sharp, melty goodness.
• 1 cup low fat cottage cheese, blended: A secret ingredient for creaminess and a high protein boost without extra fat.
• Salt & pepper to taste: To bring all the flavors together perfectly.

How to Make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Base Vegetables

Begin by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, carrot, and celery, stirring often for about 10 minutes until the veggies soften and sweeten. This foundational step releases the natural sugars, setting the stage for a flavorful soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic, Paprika, and Flour

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for one minute to awaken its aroma. Next, sprinkle the smoked paprika along with the flour, and cook them together for another minute. This coats the veggies with flour and builds the thickening agent that will give your soup that luscious texture.

Step 3: Simmer Broccoli in Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth, then add the chopped broccoli. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let the broccoli cook for 8 to 9 minutes until tender but still vibrant green. This simmering step infuses the broth with fresh vegetable flavor and softens the broccoli perfectly.

Step 4: Incorporate Milk and Cheeses

Lower the heat and pour in the milk, warming the soup gently without boiling to prevent curdling. Then, stir in the blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar until melted smoothly into the mix. This stage transforms the broth into a creamy, cheesy delight packed with protein.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess

Carefully transfer one cup of the soup to a blender, leaving the vent open for steam to escape, then blend until smooth. Alternatively, use an immersion blender right in the pot for a rustic texture with some veggie pieces intact. Return the blended soup to the pot and adjust salt and pepper to taste. This final blend heightens the silky mouthfeel that makes this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup feel like a warm hug in a bowl.

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar, a few cracked black peppercorns, or a dash of smoked paprika can add a beautiful finish. Fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley introduce brightness and a pop of color, making every spoonful visually appealing and flavor-packed.

Side Dishes

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty multigrain bread or a simple green salad dressed in tangy vinaigrette. For a light yet satisfying meal, try serving it alongside baked sweet potato fries or whole grain crackers, which complement the soup’s creamy richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup in warm bread bowls for an Insta-worthy presentation that’s fun to eat. Alternatively, layering it with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can add unexpected excitement and personalize each bowl to your liking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover soup into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen and meld beautifully after a day, making it even more delicious when reheated.

Freezing

This soup freezes surprisingly well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. It will keep for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently rewarm the soup on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Avoid overheating, as this can cause the dairy to separate. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup thickens too much during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use regular whole milk instead of 1% milk?

Yes, whole milk will make the soup even creamier, but 1% milk keeps the soup lighter without sacrificing too much richness. Pick whichever suits your dietary preferences.

Is it possible to make this soup vegan or dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with olive oil, use a dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk, and swap out cheddar and cottage cheese for vegan cheese alternatives. Keep in mind the texture and protein content may vary.

What’s the best way to blend the soup for texture?

Using an immersion blender allows you to control the consistency better, leaving some texture from the broccoli. If you prefer a silky smooth soup, a countertop blender works great but be cautious when blending hot liquids.

Can I add other vegetables to the recipe?

Yes! Cauliflower, zucchini, or even peas can be added to boost nutrition and complexity. Cook them along with the broccoli for best results.

How high is the protein content in this soup?

The addition of cottage cheese along with cheddar significantly boosts protein, making it a satisfying, muscle-friendly meal option compared to traditional broccoli cheddar soups.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup has quickly become a go-to comfort food for me because it feels indulgent without any guilt. Rich, cozy, and packed with nourishing ingredients, it invites you to slow down and savor every spoonful. I can’t wait for you to try it yourself and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite just as much as I do!

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