Broccoli cheddar soup is a comforting, creamy classic that many of us love, but adding a boost of protein makes it both nourishing and filling. This version is special because it combines the cheesy goodness we crave with a higher protein content, thanks to the addition of cottage cheese. By blending cottage cheese into the soup, you get a velvety texture without added saturated fats. This soup is perfect for chilly days when you want a meal that’s both cozy and nutritious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s packed with protein—over 20 grams per serving.
- The rich, cheesy flavor is comforting, yet it’s lighter than traditional versions.
- It’s made with wholesome, simple ingredients.
- Great for meal prep, as it keeps well for several days.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Butter – Helps sauté the veggies for a rich base. Olive oil works too.
- Onion, Carrot, and Celery – Classic soup base veggies for flavor and nutrition.
- Fresh Garlic – Adds a punch of savory flavor.
- Flour – Thickens the soup. Gluten-free flour works as well.
- Smoked Paprika – Adds a subtle smoky depth.
- Vegetable Broth – A flavorful, vegetarian base for the soup.
- Broccoli – Fresh or frozen, chopped into bite-sized pieces.
- Milk (1% or 2%) – Adds creaminess without extra fat.
- Cottage Cheese (low-fat) – The secret ingredient for extra protein and a silky texture.
- Cheddar Cheese – Sharp cheddar adds the perfect cheesy flavor.
- Salt & Pepper – To taste.
How to Make High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrot, and celery, cooking for about 10 minutes until softened.
- Add Garlic & Paprika: Stir in minced garlic and smoked paprika, cooking for another minute to release the flavors.
- Thicken the Soup: Sprinkle in flour, stirring to coat the vegetables evenly. Cook for about one minute.
- Simmer Broccoli: Pour in vegetable broth and add the broccoli. Let it simmer for about 8-9 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
- Add Dairy: Slowly stir in the milk, followed by the blended cottage cheese and cheddar. Heat gently until the cheese is fully melted.
- Blend (Optional): For a smoother texture, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or in a regular blender. Return it to the pot for a balanced, creamy consistency.
- Season & Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot with your favorite side!
Cooking Tips:
- Blending: If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend just a small portion of the soup or skip blending altogether.
- Cheese: Use freshly shredded cheddar for a smoother melt. Pre-shredded cheese can sometimes result in a grainy texture due to anti-caking agents.
- Texture Control: If the soup is too thick, you can thin it with a little extra broth or milk.
Helpful Tips:
- Avoid Curdling: When adding the milk, make sure the soup is on low heat to prevent curdling.
- Broccoli Options: Both fresh and frozen broccoli work well. Just be sure to cut the fresh broccoli into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Extra Protein: The cottage cheese adds a creamy texture while boosting protein without affecting the flavor.
Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 cups
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutritional Information:
Per serving: Calories 240, Protein 20g, Carbs 18g, Fat 12g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I freeze this soup?
It’s not recommended to freeze this soup due to the dairy, which may cause the texture to separate.
What cheese should I use?
Sharp cheddar provides a robust flavor. Shred it yourself for best results.
Storage Instructions:
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring frequently. Avoid freezing, as dairy-based soups tend to separate.
Related Recipes:
If you liked this soup, you might also enjoy:
Conclusion:
This high-protein broccoli cheddar soup is a delicious, healthy twist on a classic comfort food. The cottage cheese adds a delightful creaminess while packing in extra protein, making it a hearty option for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re looking for something to meal prep or just want a cozy bowl of soup to warm you up, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Give it a try and let the rich flavors and satisfying texture win you over!
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High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Description
Broccoli cheddar soup is a comforting, creamy classic that many of us love, but adding a boost of protein makes it both nourishing and filling. This version is special because it combines the cheesy goodness we crave with a higher protein content, thanks to the addition of cottage cheese. By blending cottage cheese into the soup, you get a velvety texture without added saturated fats. This soup is perfect for chilly days when you want a meal that’s both cozy and nutritious.
Ingredients
- Butter – Helps sauté the veggies for a rich base. Olive oil works too.
- Onion, Carrot, and Celery – Classic soup base veggies for flavor and nutrition.
- Fresh Garlic – Adds a punch of savory flavor.
- Flour – Thickens the soup. Gluten-free flour works as well.
- Smoked Paprika – Adds a subtle smoky depth.
- Vegetable Broth – A flavorful, vegetarian base for the soup.
- Broccoli – Fresh or frozen, chopped into bite-sized pieces.
- Milk (1% or 2%) – Adds creaminess without extra fat.
- Cottage Cheese (low-fat) – The secret ingredient for extra protein and a silky texture.
- Cheddar Cheese – Sharp cheddar adds the perfect cheesy flavor.
- Salt & Pepper – To taste.
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrot, and celery, cooking for about 10 minutes until softened.
- Add Garlic & Paprika: Stir in minced garlic and smoked paprika, cooking for another minute to release the flavors.
- Thicken the Soup: Sprinkle in flour, stirring to coat the vegetables evenly. Cook for about one minute.
- Simmer Broccoli: Pour in vegetable broth and add the broccoli. Let it simmer for about 8-9 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
- Add Dairy: Slowly stir in the milk, followed by the blended cottage cheese and cheddar. Heat gently until the cheese is fully melted.
- Blend (Optional): For a smoother texture, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or in a regular blender. Return it to the pot for a balanced, creamy consistency.
- Season & Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot with your favorite side!
