High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a deliciously creamy and comforting dish that packs a nutritious punch, offering 20 grams of protein per serving. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a hearty lunch, this soup balances flavor and health seamlessly. With its rich texture and cheesy goodness, it’s an ideal choice for family dinners or meal prep for the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious Comfort: This soup combines the goodness of broccoli with protein-rich ingredients, making it a wholesome meal option.
• Quick to Prepare: In just 35 minutes, you can whip up this delicious soup, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a starter or main course. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
• Kids Friendly: The cheesy flavor and creamy texture make it appealing to kids and adults alike.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or substitute cheeses to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather all the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Blender (or immersion blender)
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking your soup evenly and accommodating all ingredients comfortably.
• Blender: This tool helps achieve a creamy texture by blending part of the soup. An immersion blender can also be used for easy cleanup.
• Cutting board & Chef’s knife: These are crucial for efficiently chopping vegetables, ensuring uniform cooking.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

To create this delightful High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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 Thickening and Flavor

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

For the Soup

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

For 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: Sauté Vegetables

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
– Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 10 minutes while stirring frequently to soften the vegetables.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Add the minced garlic to the pot.
– Continue cooking over medium heat for one minute until fragrant.
– Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and flour; stir until all vegetables are well coated with flour.

Step 3: Combine Broth and Broccoli

Pour in the vegetable broth and add the chopped broccoli.
– Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to cook for about 8-9 minutes until the broccoli is tender.

Step 4: Incorporate Milk and Cheese

Reduce heat to low before adding in the milk.
– Stir gently until warmed through.
– Gradually mix in both blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until melted.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess

Transfer one cup of the soup to a blender.
– Blend carefully while allowing steam to escape through the vent. Return blended soup back into the pot.
– Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your soup; add salt and pepper as needed before serving.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your hearty bowl of High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving high protein broccoli cheddar soup can elevate your dining experience, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this comforting dish.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A warm loaf of crusty bread enhances the creamy texture of the soup. Try sourdough or whole-grain for added flavor and nutrition.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Adding freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives brings a burst of color and freshness to the dish, enhancing both taste and presentation.

Serve with a Salad

• A light side salad, such as spinach or mixed greens, can balance the richness of the soup. Drizzle with a simple vinaigrette for extra zing.

Add Protein Toppings

• Boost the protein content further by topping your soup with grilled chicken, turkey slices, or even roasted chickpeas for a plant-based option.

Offer Cheese Croutons

• Sprinkle some cheese croutons on top for an added crunch and cheesy flavor that complements the broccoli cheddar base perfectly.

Create a Soup Bar

• Set up a soup bar with various toppings like diced avocado, sunflower seeds, or crispy onions so everyone can customize their bowl.

How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Perfecting your high protein broccoli cheddar soup involves attention to detail in both preparation and ingredient selection. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and vegetables will enhance flavor and nutrition. Look for vibrant, firm broccoli heads.

• Adjust Seasonings Carefully: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference, allowing the natural flavors to shine.

• Blend Wisely: If using a blender, blend only part of the soup for a creamy texture while retaining some chunky pieces for added interest.

• Temperature Control: Keep heat low when adding dairy products to prevent curdling. Gradually incorporate them into the mixture.

• Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, try mixing in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.

• Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Complementing your high protein broccoli cheddar soup with side dishes can create a satisfying meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds flavor and texture while being easy to prepare—just spread garlic butter on baguette slices and toast until golden.

2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts make a healthy side that pairs well with creamy soups.

3. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic pairing! Opt for whole grain or gluten-free bread for a twist on this beloved combo—grill until golden brown.

4. Quinoa Salad: Quinoa salad packed with veggies offers a nutritious contrast to the creamy soup while adding more protein and fiber.

5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and beans provide an appealing presentation alongside your soup.

6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate and add sweetness that balances out the savory flavors of the soup.

7. Pita Chips with Hummus: Crunchy pita chips served alongside creamy hummus offer a nice textural contrast that complements the smoothness of the soup.

8. Crispy Kale Chips: Lightly seasoned kale chips provide an enjoyable crunch without overwhelming flavors—perfect for dipping into your rich soup!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté step: Not sautéing the vegetables properly can lead to a lack of flavor in your soup. Always take time to cook them until they soften and become fragrant.
• Ignoring the flour: Adding flour too quickly or not cooking it long enough can cause clumps in your soup. Make sure to stir it well and cook it for at least one minute with the veggies.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Cooking broccoli for too long can result in a mushy texture and loss of nutrients. Aim for a simmer of 8-9 minutes, just until tender.
• Using high heat when adding dairy: Turning up the heat too high when adding milk can curdle it. Always keep the heat low and stir gently while adding dairy products.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can leave your soup bland. Be sure to add salt and pepper according to your personal preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in a baking dish covered with foil; heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until heated through, usually about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli instead of fresh. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the soup.

What if I want a vegan version of High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

You can replace cheese with nutritional yeast and use plant-based milk instead of regular milk for a vegan-friendly option.

How do I make my soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, blend more of the soup or add additional flour mixed with broth.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding spinach, kale, or any other vegetables you enjoy.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only comforting but also nutritious, packed with protein and flavor. It’s versatile enough that you can customize it with different vegetables or spices based on your preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy a deliciously healthy meal!