High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a weeknight wonder! It’s quick, packed with flavor, and boasts a surprising protein punch thanks to a secret ingredient. My family loves this recipe and I think yours will, too!

this Recipe

It’s so creamy and satisfying, perfect for a chilly evening or a light lunch. Ready in under 40 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s get cooking!

Why This Recipe Shines

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup isn’t just delicious; it’s designed with you in mind. Here’s why it’s a winner:

• Protein Powerhouse: A hidden boost of protein keeps you feeling full and satisfied, making it a great option for a healthy meal.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Creamy Dreamy Texture: The blend of cheddar cheese, milk, and a secret ingredient (cottage cheese!) creates an unbelievably smooth and decadent soup.
• Family Favorite: This soup is a hit with both kids and adults! It’s mild, cheesy and oh so comforting.

High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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5 from 1 review

• Author: Molly Carswell Pilz
• Total Time: 40 mins
• Yield: 6 servings

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Description

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a quick and easy weeknight meal, packed with flavor and a secret protein boost. Creamy, cheesy, and ready in under 40 minutes, it’s a family favorite that’s both healthy and delicious.

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Ingredients

• 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)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 3 cups vegetable broth (I like the not-chicken style)
• 4 cups chopped broccoli
• 2 cups 1% milk
• 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
• 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese, blended
• Salt & pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery; cook for 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
2. Build the Flavor: Add smoked paprika and flour, cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Simmer the Broccoli: Pour in broth and add broccoli. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 8-9 minutes until tender.
4. Add Milk and Cheese: Add milk and cook over low heat until warmed through (do not boil). Stir in blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar until melted and smooth.
5. Blend (Optional): For a creamier texture, blend one cup of soup and return it to the pot, or use an immersion blender.
6. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Notes

This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to adjust consistency. For a richer flavor, use homemade vegetable broth. Adjust the amount of cheese to your liking. If you prefer a thinner soup, simply add more broth until you reach the desired consistency.

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins
• Category: Soups
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredient Lowdown

Here’s what you’ll need to gather to make this amazing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

• 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and flavor to the base of our soup.
• 1 large yellow onion, diced: Provides a savory foundation for the soup.
• 2 large carrots, peeled and diced: Adds sweetness and color.
• 1 stalk celery, diced: Contributes a subtle savory note.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: For that classic garlic kick!
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour): Helps thicken the soup.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives the soup a depth of smoky flavor.
• 3 cups vegetable broth (I like the not-chicken style): The flavorful base of the soup.
• 4 cups chopped broccoli: The star of the show!
• 2 cups 1% milk: Creates a creamy texture.
• 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup): Because what’s broccoli cheddar soup without the cheddar?
• 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese, blended: Our secret protein booster!
• Salt & pepper to taste: To balance and enhance the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery and cook for 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened. Add the garlic and continue to cook for one minute more.

Step 2: Build the Flavor

Add the smoked paprika and flour to the pot and cook for one minute, stirring constantly, until the vegetables are coated with flour. This will help thicken the soup.

Step 3: Simmer the Broccoli

Pour in the vegetable broth and add the chopped broccoli. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for 8-9 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.

Step 4: Add Milk and Cheese

Add the milk to the pot and cook over low heat until warmed through. Be careful not to boil the milk. Now, stir in the blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Be patient and stir gently to prevent the milk from curdling.

Step 5: Blend (Optional)

For an extra creamy texture, transfer one cup of soup to a blender and blend until smooth, allowing steam to escape through the vent. Pour the blended soup back into the pot. Alternatively, use an immersion blender to gently blend the soup directly in the pot.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed, and serve hot.

Better-Than-Grandma Tips

• Thickness Control: Start with 3 cups of broth. Add more if you prefer a thinner soup. Learn more about broths and stocks.
• Blending Technique: For the smoothest texture, use a high-speed blender and blend in batches. If using an immersion blender, be careful not to over-blend, as this can make the soup gummy.
• Cheese Choice: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère, Gouda, or even a little Parmesan for extra sharpness.

Make It Your Way

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to customize it:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roast the broccoli, carrots, and onions for a deeper, caramelized flavor before adding them to the soup.
• Creamier Texture: Use full-fat milk or half-and-half for an even richer, creamier soup. For a lighter version, try our other delicious soup recipes.
• Add-Ins: Stir in cooked chicken, bacon bits, or roasted chickpeas for extra protein and texture.

How to Serve

This soup is a meal in itself, but it also pairs perfectly with:

• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of soup.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness and contrast.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing! The warm, gooey cheese complements the creamy soup beautifully. Enjoy some tasty Korean snacks on the side.
• Apple Slices: The sweetness of apple slices balances the savory soup.

Before You Go

I hope you adore this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup as much as my family does! It’s a simple, satisfying meal packed with hidden nutrients. Don’t forget to check out our dinner recipes for more inspiration. Now, share the warmth and tag me in your culinary creations! I’m always excited to see what you whip up!

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