High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

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Welcome the Flavors of High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of broccoli cheddar soup, especially when it’s packed with protein to keep you fueled. I love how this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe brings together tender broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and creamy cottage cheese for a rich, satisfying bowl that feels like a hug from the inside.

You’ll enjoy this recipe as a nourishing weeknight dinner or a tasty lunch that’s ready to warm you up after a busy day. It’s a perfect way to squeeze in veggies while still indulging in cheesy goodness. Plus, it’s flexible enough to tweak and customize for your family’s tastes!

Market Basket & Pantry Picks

For this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe, fresh ingredients make all the difference. When picking your broccoli, look for crisp, vibrant green florets without yellowing. The onion, carrots, and celery should be firm and fresh to build a fragrant base. If you’re in a pinch, frozen chopped broccoli is the next best thing and works well after a quick thaw.

• 1 tablespoon butter: Adds rich depth and helps cook the veggies evenly.
• 1 large yellow onion, diced: Sweet and savory flavor maker.
• 2 large carrots, peeled and diced: Bring a natural sweetness and color.
• 1 stalk celery, diced: Adds classic soup crunch and aroma.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: For a gentle garlicky punch.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free): Thickens the soup to that luscious consistency.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds smoky warmth without heat.
• 3 cups vegetable broth (not-chicken style): Use a flavorful broth to keep the flavor light and vegetarian-friendly.
• 4 cups chopped broccoli: The star veggie packed with vitamins and texture.
• 2 cups 1% milk: Keeps things creamy without extra fat.
• 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded: Sharp cheddar boosts that classic soup taste.
• 1 cup low fat cottage cheese, blended: Sneaky protein boost with a silky texture.

Cook High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe Step by Step

Making this soup is straightforward—and I promise you’ll love how the kitchen fills with that warm, cheesy aroma. Follow these steps for a silky smooth soup that’s full of hearty veggies and protein power.

1. Melt the butter: In a large pot over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter until bubbly but not browned.
2. Sauté the veggies: Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Stir frequently and cook for about 10 minutes until softened and fragrant. This builds your soup’s flavor foundation.
3. Add garlic: Toss in minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring to avoid burning.
4. Coat with smoked paprika and flour: Sprinkle the smoked paprika and flour over the veggies. Stir constantly for 1 minute until everything is well coated—this helps thicken during simmering.
5. Add broth and broccoli: Pour in the vegetable broth along with chopped broccoli. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Simmer until tender: Let the broccoli cook for 8-9 minutes until softened but still bright green. Don’t overcook or it’ll lose that lovely color and texture.
7. Stir in milk: Lower heat and add 2 cups of 1% milk. Heat soup gently until warmed through. Avoid boiling to keep milk from curdling.
8. Add cheeses carefully: Blend the low-fat cottage cheese until smooth, then stir it in along with shredded cheddar cheese. Stir constantly and keep heat low to melt cheese gently, creating that luscious creamy texture.
9. Blend for smoothness: Remove about a cup of soup and carefully blend in a blender, letting steam escape as it blends. Return blended portion to pot for the perfect balance of creamy and chunky. Alternatively, an immersion blender works great for this step.

Serving the Dish with Flair

I love serving this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe in chunky bowls with a sprinkle of extra sharp cheddar and a few crunchy croutons on top for texture contrast. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or casual entertaining. Plus, it feels impressive but takes very little effort!

Fun Variations with High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

• Add a handful of cooked, diced chicken or turkey for an extra protein punch.
• Swap cheddar for smoked gouda or pepper jack for exciting flavor twists.
• Mix in cooked quinoa or brown rice for added texture and nutrition.
• Stir in a spoonful of Dijon mustard for a tangy surprise.
• Top with toasted pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch.
• Use almond milk to make a dairy-free version that’s still creamy and cozy.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Keep soup tightly covered in the fridge for up to 4 days—stir before reheating.
• Freeze: Portion out soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm gently on stovetop, stirring often to avoid sticking and curdling.
• Blend again if needed: If reheated soup thickens too much, stir in a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe FAQs

• Can I use frozen broccoli? Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a great time saver and works well—just add it frozen and increase simmering time slightly.
• How do I prevent the soup from curdling? Keep the heat low when you add the milk and cheese. Avoid boiling the soup once dairy is added to maintain a smooth texture.
• Is this soup vegetarian? Yes! Using vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian-friendly. Just double-check your broth ingredients to be sure.
• Can I make this soup vegan? Substitute dairy with plant-based milk and vegan cheese alternatives, and use a vegan butter or oil for sautéing.
• What’s the best way to blend the soup? I like blending about one cup for texture, but you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot for a smoother soup.

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