High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful blend of creamy texture and rich flavor, making it the perfect choice for cozy dinners or a quick lunch. Packed with 20 grams of protein per serving, this soup keeps you satisfied while delivering essential nutrients. Best enjoyed on chilly evenings or as a nutritious meal prep option, its combination of wholesome ingredients ensures that comfort food can also be healthy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich in protein: Each serving contains 20 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for a filling meal.
• Versatile: Perfect as a standalone dish or paired with whole grain bread for a complete meal.
• Quick and easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights.
• Creamy texture: The blend of cheddar and cottage cheese creates a luscious mouthfeel without excess fat.
• Nutritious ingredients: Loaded with broccoli and other vegetables, this soup is both healthy and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Blender (or immersion blender)
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and accommodating all the ingredients.
• Blender: Helps achieve that creamy consistency by blending part of the soup smoothly.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.

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 Soup 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
• 3 cups vegetable broth (I like the 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

To Taste

• Salt & pepper to taste

How to Make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.

Step 2: Cook Vegetables

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

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook over medium heat for one more minute.

Step 4: Incorporate Spices

Add the smoked paprika and flour. Stir continuously for one minute until all vegetables are coated with flour.

Step 5: Simmer Broccoli

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

Step 6: Cook Broccoli

Allow broccoli to simmer for about 8-9 minutes until it has softened.

Step 7: Add Milk

Slowly stir in the milk. Continue to cook over low heat until heated through but not boiling.

Step 8: Blend Cheese

Mix in blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar until melted. Avoid high heat to prevent curdling.

Step 9: Blend Soup

Transfer one cup of soup to a blender. Blend carefully while allowing steam to escape from the vent. Return blended soup back into the pot. Alternatively, use an immersion blender for gentle blending.

Step 10: Season to Taste

Add salt and pepper as needed before serving hot. Enjoy your delicious High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can elevate the experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that pair perfectly with this creamy comfort food.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough: The tangy flavor of sourdough complements the rich soup wonderfully.
• Garlic Bread: Add a tasty twist and a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy soup.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Chives: A sprinkle of chives adds a fresh, oniony flavor that brightens up the dish.
• Parsley: This herb provides a pop of color and a mild taste that enhances the overall presentation.

With a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing create a balanced meal.
• Mixed Greens: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness to counteract the richness of the soup.

In a Bread Bowl

• Bread Bowl: Serve the soup in an edible bread bowl for a fun and interactive dining experience. It’s also great for soaking up every last drop!

How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Perfecting your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup ensures each bowl is deliciously creamy and full of flavor. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect consistency and taste.

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives the best flavor and texture compared to frozen.
• Blend Cottage Cheese Smoothly: Blend the cottage cheese well for a smooth soup without lumps.
• Control Heat Carefully: Keep the heat low when adding cheeses to prevent curdling of the milk.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go; add salt and pepper incrementally for balanced seasoning.
• Experiment with Cheese Types: Try different cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup with a side dish can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these potatoes add a savory touch.
2. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious salad loaded with veggies that complements the creaminess of the soup.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with rice, beans, or vegetables make for a hearty side.
4. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on toasted bread offers healthy fats and crunch.
5. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing; try different cheeses for variety!
6. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Light and refreshing, spring rolls provide a crisp contrast to warm soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making broccoli cheddar soup seems simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold flavor choices: Using too much or too little seasoning can dull the flavors. Taste and adjust salt and pepper gradually as you cook.
• Bold thickening issues: Not allowing the flour to cook properly before adding liquid can lead to a gritty texture. Cook the flour with the vegetables for at least one minute.
• Bold vegetable prep: Cutting broccoli into large chunks may result in uneven cooking. Ensure even-sized pieces for uniform tenderness.
• Bold blending technique: Blending the soup while it’s too hot can be dangerous. Always allow steam to escape when blending hot liquids.
• Bold dairy curdling: Adding cold milk directly into hot soup can cause curdling. Always warm it gently before mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your high protein broccoli cheddar soup in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making high protein broccoli cheddar soup.

What makes this a high protein broccoli cheddar soup?

This recipe includes cottage cheese and shredded cheddar, which contribute significantly to its protein content, offering about 20 grams per serving.

Can I use different cheeses in this soup?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyere for varied flavors while maintaining the creamy texture.

How can I make this soup vegan?

You can substitute dairy products with plant-based milk and vegan cheese alternatives, along with using nutritional yeast for added flavor.

How do I store leftovers of this high protein broccoli cheddar soup?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This high protein broccoli cheddar soup is not only delicious but also offers great nutritional value. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s perfect as a comforting meal or a hearty starter. Feel free to customize it by adding other vegetables or adjusting the cheese type according to your preference!