High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This rich and creamy High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful comfort food that’s not just delicious but also packed with nutrition. With 20 grams of protein per serving, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a health-conscious meal prep. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a family gathering, this soup will warm both your heart and your belly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Filling: Each bowl delivers a hearty dose of protein, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to boost their intake.
• Easy to Prepare: With just under 35 minutes from start to finish, you can whip this up on busy weeknights.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese and smoked paprika creates a rich flavor profile that pleases every palate.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add more veggies or swap the cheeses based on what you have at home.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator, making it great for lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having these on hand makes preparation easier and ensures the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A sturdy pot is essential for simmering the soup evenly, ensuring all ingredients cook properly.
• Blender: A good blender helps achieve a creamy texture by blending part of the soup smoothly.
• Cutting board and knife: These are fundamental for prepping your vegetables quickly and safely.

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 Base

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

For the Soup Mixture

• 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 Creamy Element

• 4 cups chopped broccoli
• 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: Sauté Your Vegetables

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

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in garlic and cook for one more minute over medium heat.

Step 4: Incorporate Spices & Flour

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

Step 5: Add Broth & Broccoli

Pour in vegetable broth along with chopped broccoli. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Simmer Until Tender

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

Step 7: Pour in Milk

Slowly add milk while cooking over low heat until the soup is warmed through.

Step 8: Mix in Cheeses

Add blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar. Stir gently until melted. Be cautious not to raise heat too high to avoid curdling.

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 into the pot. You can also use an immersion blender if you prefer.

Step 10: Final Touches

Season with salt to taste if needed before serving hot. Enjoy your hearty bowl of High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can enhance the dining experience. Here are some creative ideas to make your meal even more delightful.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair this soup with a slice of crusty whole grain or sourdough bread for a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy texture.

Topped with Croutons

• Add homemade or store-bought croutons on top for an extra layer of flavor and a delightful crunch.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the soup to add freshness and a pop of color.

Served in Bread Bowls

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This method is not only visually appealing but also adds more deliciousness!

Accompanied by a Salad

• A light side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette pairs well and adds balance to the meal.

How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To ensure your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is always a hit, consider these helpful tips for perfecting the recipe.

• Use fresh broccoli: Fresh broccoli provides better flavor and texture compared to frozen. Select vibrant green florets for the best results.
• Blend wisely: When blending, allow steam to escape to avoid pressure buildup. This ensures a smooth consistency without splatters.
• Monitor heat carefully: Keep the heat low when adding cheese to prevent curdling of milk. Stir constantly until melted for creamy perfection.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup before serving. A little extra salt or pepper can elevate the flavors significantly.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices like nutmeg or cayenne pepper for an additional flavor kick.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Complementing your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup with the right sides can enhance the meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A warm, buttery garlic bread makes for a delicious dipping companion.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce with crunchy croutons and creamy dressing offers a refreshing contrast.

3. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and veggies provide a hearty side that pairs nicely.

4. Roasted Veggies
   A mix of roasted seasonal vegetables brings extra nutrients and flavor to your meal.

5. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing adds protein and complements the soup’s richness.

6. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
   Classic grilled cheese sandwiches provide a nostalgic pairing that’s loved by many.

7. Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side that everyone enjoys.

8. Cornbread Muffins
   Sweet cornbread muffins add a touch of sweetness that balances well with the savory soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Ignoring the vegetables’ cooking time – Ensure onions, carrots, and celery are sautéed long enough to bring out their flavors. Cook them for at least 10 minutes.
• Not blending enough – Blending a portion of the soup is key for creaminess. If you skip this step, your soup may be too chunky.
• Using high heat when adding cheese – Avoid curdling by keeping the heat low when adding cheese. This allows it to melt smoothly without separating.
• Overcooking broccoli – Simmer the broccoli just until tender. Overcooked broccoli can lose its vibrant color and crisp texture.
• Not tasting before serving – Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper as needed for balanced flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers – Use glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids.
• Keep for up to 3-4 days – Consume within this timeframe for best flavor and safety.

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze in portions – Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• Best used within 2-3 months – For optimal taste and texture, consume within this time frame.

Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm over low heat in a pot, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What makes this a high protein broccoli cheddar soup?

This soup features both cottage cheese and cheddar cheese, providing a boost of protein along with the nutritious broccoli.

Can I use other cheeses in this soup?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for different flavors while maintaining creaminess.

How can I make this soup vegan?

You can replace dairy with plant-based alternatives such as almond milk, nutritional yeast instead of cheddar cheese, and tofu blended as a substitute for cottage cheese.

What is the best way to store leftover high protein broccoli cheddar soup?

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

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only comforting but also packs a nutritious punch with its high protein content. It’s an excellent choice for lunch or dinner and can easily be customized with different vegetables or spices. Give it a try—you’ll love how deliciously healthy it is!