High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition. It’s creamy, rich, and packed with 20 grams of protein per serving, making it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner. This soup dazzles with its vibrant flavors and versatility, suitable for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to meal prep for a busy week. Enjoy a warm bowl that satisfies your taste buds while providing essential nutrients!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein and vitamins, this soup is a wholesome meal option.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can whip up this comforting dish in under an hour.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of broccoli and cheddar makes it a delightful favorite for both kids and adults.
• Creamy Texture: Blending cottage cheese results in a smooth consistency without heavy cream.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for leftovers; enjoy it throughout the week or freeze portions for later!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Blender (or immersion blender)
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Provides enough space to sauté vegetables and simmer the soup without spilling.
• Blender: Creates a creamy texture by blending part of the soup; an immersion blender offers convenience without transferring hot liquid.

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)

For the Creaminess

• 4 cups chopped broccoli
• 2 cups 1% milk
• 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
• 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese, blended until smooth

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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 while stirring frequently until the vegetables are softened.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Stir in the minced garlic; cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle the smoked paprika and flour over the vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Add Broth and Broccoli

Pour in the vegetable broth along with the chopped broccoli. Bring the soup to a simmer. Cook for about 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. Mix gently until melted. Avoid boiling as high heat may curdle the milk.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess

Transfer about 1 cup of soup to a blender; blend until smooth while allowing steam to escape through the vent. Return blended soup to pot; stir well to combine. Alternatively, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup while leaving some chunks intact.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste your delicious soup! Add salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm in bowls garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your nutritious meal!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can elevate the meal experience. This hearty soup pairs well with a variety of sides and toppings that enhance its flavors and nutritional value.

Toppings

• Croutons: Add crunchy homemade or store-bought croutons for a delightful texture contrast.
• Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle some extra cheddar cheese on top for a rich, cheesy flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a burst of freshness and color.

Bread Pairings

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty sourdough or French bread for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread complements the soup’s creaminess with its savory taste.
• Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks add a fun twist to your soup experience.

Salad Options

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crispness and balances the soup’s richness.
• Mixed Greens: Lightly dressed mixed greens offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.

How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli yields better flavor and texture compared to frozen options.
• Blend Cottage Cheese Thoroughly: Blending cottage cheese until smooth will create a creamy consistency without extra calories.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper in small increments to avoid oversalting.
• Control Heat When Adding Dairy: Always keep the heat low when adding milk and cheese to prevent curdling.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other spices like nutmeg or black pepper for additional depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup with complementary side dishes can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: These crispy potatoes add a delicious crunch and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the soup.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies offers a healthy balance while enhancing protein intake.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and veggies provide an eye-catching side that is also hearty.
4. Spinach Artichoke Dip: Serve this creamy dip with tortilla chips for a fun appetizer before enjoying your soup.
5. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy, cheesy biscuits are perfect for dipping into the rich broth of the soup.
6. Roasted Veggies: A medley of roasted vegetables adds both color and nutritional value to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Ignoring the Vegetable Prep: Not dicing vegetables uniformly can lead to uneven cooking. Chop your onion, carrots, and celery into similar-sized pieces for consistent texture.
• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Sautéing vegetables enhances their flavor. Don’t rush this step; allow them to soften before adding other ingredients.
• Overheating the Soup: Boiling the soup after adding dairy can cause curdling. Always keep the heat low once you add milk and cheese for a smooth finish.
• Not Blending Enough: Some may skip blending for creaminess, resulting in a chunky texture. Blend at least part of the soup for that creamy consistency without heavy cream.
• Underseasoning: Without proper seasoning, the soup can taste bland. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving.
• Neglecting Storage Tips: Improper storage can affect texture and taste. Use airtight containers and follow storage guidelines to keep your soup fresh.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The soup will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• This soup can be frozen, but note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• Label with the date before placing it in the freezer.

Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil; heat until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over low heat. Stir gently until warmed, being cautious not to boil.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup healthy?

This soup is rich in protein due to added cottage cheese and cheddar, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.

Can I customize High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken or ham for extra protein or toss in other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for variety.

How do I store leftover High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for longer shelf life.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes! Substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like vegan cheese and almond milk while ensuring broth is also plant-based.

How do I thicken High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, reduce the amount of broth used or blend a larger portion of the soup before serving.

Final Thoughts

High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it ideal for lunch or dinner. With its creamy texture and comforting flavors, this recipe is versatile enough to customize according to your taste preferences. Whether you add extra veggies or switch up the cheese, you’ll enjoy a wholesome meal that satisfies!