High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

If you love comforting, creamy soups packed with nutrients, you are going to absolutely adore this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup. It’s the perfect blend of fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, and a surprisingly satisfying protein boost from cottage cheese, creating a bowl that warms you from the inside out while keeping you energized. This soup balances rich, cheesy flavor with wholesome ingredients, making it a standout weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch that never fails to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup lies in its simple and thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that perfect creamy consistency without feeling heavy.

• Butter: Acts as the base fat to sauté your vegetables, adding richness and depth.
• Yellow onion: Provides a natural sweetness and savory undertone when softened.
• Carrots: Add a gentle earthy sweetness along with a lovely color contrast.
• Celery: Brings a subtle crunch and aromatic freshness.
• Garlic: Offers a fragrant, savory kick that brightens the soup.
• All-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour): A thickener that helps create that velvety texture.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a hint of warmth and smokiness to enhance the overall flavor.
• Vegetable broth: The soup’s flavorful liquid base, rich but not overpowering.
• Broccoli: The star vegetable, providing fiber, vitamins, and a satisfying green color.
• 1% milk: Keeps the soup creamy but light enough to balance the other ingredients.
• Cheddar cheese: Brings sharp, melty goodness that makes every spoonful irresistible.
• Low fat cottage cheese (blended): A secret weapon for adding protein and creaminess without heaviness.
• Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings to bring everything together at the end.

How to Make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics

Start by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrot, and celery, cooking and stirring frequently for about 10 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent. This is the flavor foundation of your soup, so take your time to develop those sweet and savory notes.

Step 2: Add garlic and spices

Once the base veggies are tender, add minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its fragrance. Stir in smoked paprika and flour, coating the vegetables evenly. This step thickens the soup and infuses a gentle smoky warmth that complements the broccoli beautifully.

Step 3: Simmer with broth and broccoli

Pour in the vegetable broth and toss in the chopped broccoli. Bring the pot to a gentle simmer and allow the broccoli to cook for about 8 to 9 minutes until tender but still vibrant green. This simmering step melds the flavors and softens the broccoli just right for blending.

Step 4: Add milk and cheeses

Lower the heat and stir in the milk, warming the soup without boiling. Gently fold in the blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar until everything melts into creamy perfection. Be cautious here—turn the heat too high, and the milk can curdle. The cottage cheese boosts the protein while keeping the texture silkier than traditional cream.

Step 5: Blend for smoothness

Remove one cup of soup and carefully blend it in a blender, making sure to vent the steam to avoid accidents. Then, return this smooth mixture to the pot. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender to gently puree the soup right in the pot, leaving some vegetable chunks if you like a bit of texture. Finally, taste and add salt and pepper as needed.

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Garnishes

Take your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup up a notch with thoughtful garnishes. A sprinkle of extra sharp cheddar or flakes of crispy bacon can add crunch and bursts of flavor. Freshly chopped chives or parsley lend a bright, herbal finish that complements the richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread or garlic butter toast for dipping. For a lighter touch, pair it with a crisp green side salad or a fresh fruit plate, balancing the warm, creamy soup with refreshing textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this soup in charming bread bowls for a rustic feel, or spoon it into individual ramekins topped with a small cheese crisp for an elegant appetizer. Layering with a drizzle of chili oil or a dash of smoked paprika on top can also add a stunning visual and flavor boost.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making leftovers even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, making it a perfect meal prep option. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or curdling. Adding a splash of milk or broth can help restore its creamy texture perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use different cheese instead of cheddar?

Absolutely! While cheddar’s sharpness is classic here, you can experiment with gouda, Monterey jack, or even a pepper jack for a spicier twist. Just choose a cheese that melts well.

Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is entirely vegetarian-friendly if you use vegetable broth. Just double-check your broth choice to ensure no animal products are included.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

You can adapt the recipe by substituting dairy milk with unsweetened plant-based milk and using dairy-free cheese alternatives. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.

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

Using an immersion blender allows for more control—you can blend until smooth or leave some chunks. If you prefer a fully creamy soup, blend in a regular blender carefully to avoid steam burns.

How high is the protein content in this soup?

The addition of cottage cheese really boosts the protein, making this soup satisfying and nourishing. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to combine comfort with protein-rich eating.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup quickly became one of my go-to recipes for its unbeatable combination of creamy texture, wholesome ingredients, and satisfying protein power. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal, this soup delivers warmth, flavor, and nourishment in every spoonful. I encourage you to give it a try and share the joy of a soup that feels indulgent and healthy all at once.

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