High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful fusion of comfort and nutrition. Packed with creamy goodness, it offers 20 grams of protein per serving, making it an ideal meal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a warming lunch, a cozy dinner, or a healthy appetizer for your gatherings, this soup checks all the boxes. Its rich flavor and smooth texture will please even the pickiest eaters!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious Delight: Each serving is loaded with protein and essential nutrients, making it a wholesome choice.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese and broccoli creates a deliciously creamy experience that warms the soul.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this comforting soup in just 35 minutes.
• Versatile Ingredients: Swap in your favorite veggies or cheeses to customize the soup to your taste.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This soup stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A sturdy pot ensures even cooking and prevents sticking while allowing ample space for all ingredients.
• Blender: Essential for achieving that smooth texture; blending part of the soup enhances creaminess without losing richness.

Ingredients

To create this delicious High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

Base Ingredients

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

Flavoring Ingredients

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

Main Ingredients

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

Creamy Ingredients

• 2 cups 1% milk
• 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 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 cooking over medium heat for one minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour and Paprika

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

Step 5: Simmer Broth and Broccoli

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

Step 6: Cook Until Softened

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

Step 7: Add Milk

Lower the heat and add milk. Heat gently until warm but do not boil.

Step 8: Mix in Cheeses

Stir in blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar until melted. Be cautious not to let it curdle.

Step 9: Blend for Creaminess

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

Step 10: Season to Taste

Add salt and pepper as needed before serving hot!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can enhance your dining experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your soup presentation.

With Crusty Bread

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

Topped with Croutons

• Add homemade or store-bought croutons for an extra crunch. They add texture and a delightful contrast to the smoothness of the soup.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top. This not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile of the soup.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Pair with a light mixed green salad for a refreshing side. The crisp greens balance the richness of the soup.

With a Side of Veggie Sticks

• Offer raw veggie sticks like carrots and cucumbers. They provide a healthy contrast and are great for dipping in the soup.

Served in Bread Bowls

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This makes for an impressive presentation and adds more flavor.

How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Achieving the perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is delicious every time.

• Use fresh broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives the best flavor and texture compared to frozen varieties.
• Blend for creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a creamy consistency while still leaving chunks for texture.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Control heat when adding dairy: Keep your heat low when adding milk and cheese to prevent curdling.
• Experiment with cheese: Try different types of cheese, like Gruyère or mozzarella, for varied flavors.
• Add protein boosts: For even more protein, consider adding shredded chicken or turkey to the mix.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing side dishes with your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread complements the rich flavors of the soup beautifully.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing that pairs well with creamy soups.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies provide a nutritious and flavorful side that enhances the meal’s healthiness.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad can add protein and fiber, making it a hearty accompaniment without overpowering the soup.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These can be filled with rice, beans, or veggies for a filling dish that balances well with soup flavors.
6. Pita Chips with Hummus: Crunchy pita chips paired with hummus offer a delightful crunch and extra flavor that pairs nicely with broccoli cheddar soup.
7. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, which helps cut through the richness of the cheesy soup.
8. Cornbread Muffins: Soft cornbread muffins add a slight sweetness that complements savory soups wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking broccoli for too long can lead to mushy vegetables. Aim for 8-9 minutes of simmering until just tender.
• Skipping the Blending Step: Not blending part of the soup can result in a chunky texture. Blend a portion to achieve a creamy consistency that enhances flavor.
• Adding Cheese Too Early: If you add cheese at high heat, it may curdle. Stir in the cheese over low heat for a smooth melt.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Skimping on salt or pepper can leave your soup bland. Taste and adjust seasoning at the end for optimal flavor.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold milk directly into hot broth can cause temperature shock. Warm the milk slightly before adding it to ensure a creamy blend.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers as soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring every minute until heated through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat, stirring frequently to avoid curdling.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What makes this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup healthy?

This soup is packed with protein from both cheddar and cottage cheese while using nutritious broccoli, making it a wholesome choice.

Can I customize my High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or kale or substitute different cheeses to tailor it to your taste.

How do I make this soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend during cooking.

How long does High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup last?

The soup lasts about 4 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months if frozen properly.

Final Thoughts

High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only rich and creamy but also offers a satisfying serving of protein. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite veggies and cheeses, making it perfect for any meal. Give this comforting recipe a try today!