High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only delicious but also packed with 20 grams of protein per serving! It’s a comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings or as a nutritious option for lunch. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, this soup offers a healthy twist on a classic favorite, making it suitable for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Comfort Food: This soup provides the warmth and satisfaction of traditional cheddar soups while being lower in calories and high in protein.
• Quick and Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe can be on your table in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy flavor combined with nutritious broccoli.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers to enjoy throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’ll need some essential tools that simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Blender or immersion blender
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: This allows you to cook all ingredients evenly and prevents any overflow during simmering.
• Blender or immersion blender: Blending helps achieve that creamy texture without needing heavy cream.
• Cutting board & sharp knife: These are vital for efficiently chopping vegetables, ensuring uniform cooking.

Ingredients

This rich and creamy broccoli cheddar soup is secretly healthy, with 20 grams of protein per serving! It’s the perfect comfort food recipe!

For the Base

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

For the Thickening Agent

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Soup

• 3 cups vegetable broth (I like the not-chicken style)
• 4 cups chopped broccoli
• 2 cups 1% milk

For the Creaminess

• 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
• 1 cup low fat cottage cheese, blended

Seasoning

• Salt & pepper to taste

How to Make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Melt Butter

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 10 minutes while stirring frequently until softened.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the pot. Continue cooking over medium heat for one minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate Spices and Flour

Stir in smoked paprika and flour. Cook for another minute until vegetables are coated with flour.

Step 5: Add Broth and Broccoli

Pour in the vegetable broth and add chopped broccoli. Bring everything to a simmer.

Step 6: Simmer Until Tender

Let the broccoli simmer for about 8-9 minutes until it’s softened.

Step 7: Stir in Milk

Add milk to the pot. Cook over low heat until warmed through but do not boil.

Step 8: Blend Cheese

Mix in blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted fully without letting it curdle.

Step 9: Blend Soup

Transfer one cup of soup into a blender. Blend gently while allowing steam to escape through the vent. Return blended soup back to the pot. Alternatively, use an immersion blender for a smoother consistency.

Step 10: Final Seasoning

Taste your soup and add salt if needed before serving warm.

Enjoy your nutritious High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can elevate the meal experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this comforting dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve the soup with a slice of warm crusty bread for dipping. The texture of the bread complements the creamy soup perfectly.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar on top just before serving. It melts beautifully and adds richness.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives can brighten up the soup’s flavor and add a pop of color.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Pair the soup with a light salad for a balanced meal. A simple green salad with vinaigrette works well to cut through the creaminess.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve your soup in a bread bowl. This makes for an edible container that keeps your soup warm and delicious.

With a Dollop of Sour Cream

• Add a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for extra creaminess and tang. This transforms each bite into something special.

How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To ensure your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup turns out great every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and dairy products enhance the flavor and texture of your soup.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking: Take your time when sautéing vegetables; it builds depth of flavor that enriches the overall dish.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend more of it until you reach your desired consistency.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go and adjust seasoning at different stages for balanced flavors.
• Keep Heat Low: When adding dairy, keep heat low to prevent curdling, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other spices like cayenne pepper or nutmeg for a unique twist on flavor.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing side dishes with your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can create a satisfying meal. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread complements the creamy soup and is perfect for dipping.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crispness and tang, balancing out the rich flavors of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add texture and additional nutrients to round out your meal.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice provide hearty satisfaction alongside your soup.
5. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness and contrasts nicely with the savory soup.
6. Cheese Quesadilla: Crispy quesadillas filled with cheese pair well, offering gooey goodness that mirrors the flavor profile of the soup.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs create a satisfying crunch that complements each spoonful.
8. Coleslaw: A light coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, enhancing the overall meal experience while keeping it refreshing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup to perfection. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté: Not sautéing the onions and carrots can lead to a bland flavor. Always take the time to cook these ingredients until they are tender and aromatic.
• Overcooking broccoli: Cooking broccoli too long can make it mushy and dull in color. Simmer it just until it’s tender, about 8-9 minutes, for the best texture and vibrant green color.
• Using cold milk: Adding cold milk straight from the fridge can cause it to curdle when mixed with hot soup. Allow your milk to come to room temperature before adding it for a smooth creamy texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Skipping salt and pepper can leave your soup flat. Taste as you go and season properly for a well-rounded flavor.
• Not blending enough: If you don’t blend part of the soup, it may lack creaminess. Ensure you blend at least one cup of the mixture to achieve that rich, creamy consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

Can I use other cheeses?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for varied flavors.

What if I want a vegan version?

You can substitute dairy with plant-based milk and cheese alternatives while using nutritional yeast for added flavor.

How high is the protein content?

Each serving of this soup contains approximately 20 grams of protein, making it a great choice for a filling meal.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Consider adding bell peppers, spinach, or peas for added nutrition and color.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only creamy and delicious but also packed with nutrition. It’s perfect as a hearty meal on its own or served alongside crusty bread. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices—get creative and enjoy!