High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort to any meal. Packed with 20 grams of protein per serving, this soup is perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s not only creamy and rich but also secretly healthy, making it a great choice for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

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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 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
• Pair with Crusty Bread
• Offer Toppings
• Create a Meal Bowl
• Serve with Salad
• 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 soup high in protein?
• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
• How do I customize my High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Can I make this soup dairy-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Filling: Each serving provides 20 grams of protein, making it a satisfying option.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you’ll have this comforting soup ready in no time.
• Versatile: Perfect as a standalone meal or paired with bread, salads, or sandwiches.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust spices and add other vegetables for your taste preferences.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy it later without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. They will help ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

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 sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup evenly.
• Blender: Helps achieve that creamy texture by blending part of the soup until smooth.
• Cutting board & knife: Necessary for efficiently prepping all your fresh ingredients.

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
• 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 heat to low. Stir in the milk, blended cottage cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently until melted and fully incorporated. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.

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 to the pot or use an immersion blender to mix lightly while keeping some chunks intact.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste the soup; add salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm with your favorite garnishes!

Enjoy this comforting soup as a nutritious and protein-packed option for any meal!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. It can be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: The tangy flavor complements the creamy soup beautifully.
• Garlic Bread: Adds a savory crunch that pairs well with the smooth texture of the soup.

Offer Toppings

• Croutons: Add a crunchy texture and extra flavor on top of each bowl.
• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives brightens up the dish and adds freshness.

Create a Meal Bowl

• Quinoa or Rice: Stir in cooked quinoa or rice for added heartiness.
• Grilled Chicken: Top with sliced grilled chicken for an extra protein boost.

Serve with Salad

• Caesar Salad: The classic flavors of Caesar salad make a great pairing.
• Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens adds freshness to your meal.

How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To elevate your cooking game, follow these tips for making the best High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and vegetables will enhance the soup’s flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the broth; for a thinner option, add more broth gradually.
• Blend for Creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a creamier texture without heavy cream.
• Cheese Quality Matters: Use high-quality sharp cheddar for maximum flavor and richness.
• Taste Before Serving: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper just before serving for optimal taste.

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Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving this hearty soup alongside complementary side dishes can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some great options.

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing that never disappoints; try using different cheeses for variety.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies add color and nutrition; roast them with olive oil and herbs.
3. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes topped with butter or sour cream create a comforting contrast.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Filled with grains and protein, stuffed peppers can be a filling side dish.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful sweetness against the savory soup.
6. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad offers freshness; mix it with veggies and vinaigrette for balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be simple, but certain mistakes can hinder its taste and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Ignoring Vegetable Sautéing Time: Not cooking the vegetables long enough can lead to a raw flavor. Always sauté until they are tender before adding other ingredients.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Low-quality cheese can result in a bland soup. Opt for sharp cheddar for better flavor and a creamier texture.
• Boiling the Soup After Adding Dairy: Boiling the soup after adding milk or cheese can cause curdling. Always keep it on low heat once dairy is added.
• Skipping the Blending Step: Not blending part of the soup misses out on achieving that creamy consistency. Blend at least one cup for a smoother texture.
• Not Tasting Before Serving: Forgetting to season before serving can lead to an underwhelming flavor. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup may expand when frozen.

Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and bake until heated through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat over low flame in a pot, stirring gently until warmed through. Avoid boiling.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this soup high in protein?

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup contains ingredients like cottage cheese and cheddar cheese, which contribute significantly to its protein content.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute frozen broccoli for fresh. Just add it directly to the pot; no need to thaw first.

How do I customize my High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

You can add cooked chicken or turkey for extra protein or toss in different vegetables such as kale or spinach for added nutrients.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup stores well and is perfect for meal prep. It remains delicious even after reheating.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute non-dairy milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Adjust seasoning as needed for flavor.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only rich and creamy but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various vegetables or proteins based on your preferences. Enjoy this comforting dish any day!