Cozy High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe for Chilly Days

Soup nights never tasted so good with this incredible high protein broccoli cheddar soup that packs a serious nutritional punch.

Creamy textures blend seamlessly with sharp cheddar notes and tender broccoli florets.

Lean protein sources elevate this classic comfort dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

Each spoonful delivers a rich, satisfying blend of wholesome ingredients and bold flavors.

Health-conscious food lovers will appreciate the balanced nutrition and delightful taste profile.

This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a hearty meal that keeps you full and energized.

Grab a ladle and get ready to savor every delicious bite of this nourishing soup.

High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Appeal

• Boost Protein Power: Packed with cottage cheese and cheddar, this soup delivers a protein punch that keeps you full and satisfied, making it a perfect meal for fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious eaters.
• Veggie-Loaded Comfort: Broccoli, carrots, and celery create a nutritious base that transforms classic comfort food into a wholesome, vegetable-rich experience everyone will love.
• Quick and Easy Preparation: Minimal ingredients and simple cooking steps mean you can whip up this delicious soup in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meal solutions.
• Customize Your Bowl: Easily adaptable with optional toppings like crispy bacon, green onions, or extra cheese, allowing each person to personalize their soup for maximum enjoyment.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup Power Ingredients

• Cottage Cheese: A creamy, protein-rich ingredient that adds thickness and nutrition to the soup.
• Cheddar Cheese: A sharp, flavorful cheese that provides a rich and tangy taste to the soup.

• Broccoli, Onion, Carrot, Celery: Fresh vegetables that create a nutritious and flavorful base for the soup.
• Garlic: A aromatic ingredient that enhances the overall depth of flavor.

• Milk: A smooth dairy base that creates a creamy texture for the soup.
• Broth: A savory liquid that provides additional depth and helps cook the vegetables.
• Butter: A rich ingredient that helps sauté the vegetables and adds richness to the soup.
• Flour: A thickening agent that helps create a smooth and consistent soup texture.
• Smoked Paprika: A spice that adds a subtle smoky flavor and warmth to the dish.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the overall taste of the soup.

Instructions for High Protein Soup

Step 1: Prepare Aromatic Base

Heat butter in a large pot over medium heat.

Add chopped onions, diced carrots, and sliced celery.

Sauté the vegetables for about 10 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.

Toss in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, releasing its wonderful aroma.

Step 2: Create Flavor Foundation

Sprinkle smoked paprika and flour over the sautéed vegetables.

Stir thoroughly to coat every piece, cooking for one minute.

This step builds a rich, deep flavor base for the soup.

Step 3: Introduce Broccoli Goodness

Pour in broth and add fresh broccoli florets.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Cook for 8-9 minutes, allowing the broccoli to become tender but still maintain a vibrant green color and slight crunch.

Step 4: Enrich with Creamy Dairy

Reduce heat to low and pour in milk.

Gently stir in blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese.

Continue stirring until the cheeses completely melt and create a smooth, luxurious texture.

Step 5: Perfect the Texture and Seasoning

Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, creating a slightly chunky consistency.

Alternatively, remove one cup of soup and blend separately, then return to the pot.

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Stir well and serve hot.

Pro Tips for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Add grilled chicken or cooked turkey for extra protein without changing the soup's creamy texture.
• Swap broccoli with cauliflower or mix both for different nutrient profiles and flavor dimensions.
• Replace milk and cheese with nutritional yeast and unsweetened almond milk for a vegan-friendly version.
• Blend less for a chunkier soup or fully puree for a smoother consistency, depending on personal preference.
• Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for a warming kick that complements the cheesy base.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup Twist Ideas

• Dairy-Free Dream: Replace milk and cheese with coconut milk and nutritional yeast for a creamy, vegan-friendly version that maintains rich flavor.
• Protein Power Boost: Swap cottage cheese with Greek yogurt and add cooked chicken or white beans for extra protein and texture.
• Lean Green Machine: Use cauliflower instead of broccoli and swap cheddar for low-fat mozzarella to create a lighter, lower-calorie soup option.
• Mediterranean Makeover: Incorporate roasted red peppers, swap paprika for oregano, and add crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired variation.

Best Ways to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Cozy Soup Companions: Crusty bread slices or garlic toast make perfect dippers for this creamy soup, soaking up all the delicious cheesy goodness.
• Protein Power Boost: Top with grilled chicken strips or crispy bacon bits to increase protein content and add extra flavor layers.
• Veggie Crunch Topping: Sprinkle fresh chopped green onions, toasted pumpkin seeds, or crispy roasted broccoli florets for added texture and nutrition.
• Comfort Bowl Complete: Serve alongside a light mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the soup's rich and creamy profile.

Storage Tips for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Keep the container sealed to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of other food odors.
• Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup seems too thick. Avoid boiling to prevent separating dairy components.
• Never leave soup at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth. Cool soup quickly by transferring to shallow containers before refrigerating.

FAQs

• Is this soup good for weight loss?

Yes, it’s high in protein from cottage cheese and low in calories, making it a nutritious option for those watching their weight.

• Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth to create a vegetarian version without losing flavor.

• How does cottage cheese improve the soup's nutrition?

Cottage cheese adds significant protein, calcium, and creates a creamy texture without excessive fat, making the soup healthier than traditional cream-based soups.

• Is this soup keto-friendly?

Not exactly. The flour and carrots contain carbohydrates, which aren’t ideal for strict keto diets. However, it’s lower in carbs compared to traditional broccoli cheddar soups.

High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

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4.5 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty high protein broccoli cheddar soup delivers comfort and nutrition in one delightful bowl. Creamy, cheesy goodness meets wholesome ingredients, creating a satisfying meal packed with flavor and wellness for hungry souls.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 cups chopped broccoli
• 4 ounces (113 grams) cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup low fat cottage cheese, blended
• 2 cups 1% milk
• 3 cups vegetable broth

Vegetables and Aromatics:

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

Seasonings and Thickeners:

• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery for 8-10 minutes until vegetables soften and become translucent, stirring periodically.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for 45-60 seconds, releasing aromatic flavors without browning.
3. Sprinkle paprika and flour over vegetables, stirring continuously to create a smooth roux. Cook for 1 minute to eliminate raw flour taste.
4. Pour in broth and add chopped broccoli. Simmer for 7-9 minutes until broccoli becomes tender but maintains a vibrant green color.
5. Reduce heat to low and gently incorporate milk. Gradually fold in blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar, stirring until cheese melts completely and creates a smooth, creamy consistency.
6. For enhanced texture, remove one cup of soup and blend until smooth. Return blended portion to pot or use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, creating a slightly chunky texture.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt. Allow soup to rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.

Notes

• Choose fresh, crisp broccoli for the best texture and vibrant green color in the soup.
• Blend cottage cheese for extra protein boost and creamy consistency without adding heavy cream.
• Cut vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the soup.
• Swap cheddar with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version that maintains rich, cheesy flavor profile.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 480 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 14 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg