High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for cozy nights or meal prep for the week ahead. With a generous 20 grams of protein per serving, this soup is not just comforting but also nourishing. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this soup will please everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Twist: Packed with protein and nutrients, this soup is a guilt-free comfort food.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time!
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a starter or main dish; serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
• Kid-Friendly Flavor: The cheesy goodness makes it an excellent choice for picky eaters.
• Make Ahead: This soup stores well, so it’s perfect for meal prep or freezing.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for making soups as it allows ample space to cook all ingredients evenly.
• Blender: Essential for achieving the desired creamy texture; you can use an immersion blender for convenience.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Helps ensure accurate ingredient quantities for perfect results every time.

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!

Vegetables and Aromatics

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

Seasoning and Thickening Agents

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

Broth and Dairy

• 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

Final Touches

• Salt & pepper to taste

How to Make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Base

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently until they soften.

Step 2: Add Garlic & Seasoning

Add the minced garlic and continue to cook over medium heat for one more minute. Stir in the smoked paprika and flour. Cook for another minute until vegetables are coated with flour.

Step 3: Incorporate Broth & Broccoli

Pour in the vegetable broth along with chopped broccoli. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 8-9 minutes until the broccoli is tender.

Step 4: Creamy Addition

Lower the heat and add in the milk. Stir gently until warmed through. Next, blend in the cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until melted smoothly.

Step 5: Blend for Texture

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

Step 6: Final Seasoning

Taste your soup and add salt and pepper as needed before serving hot.

With these easy steps, you’ll have a delicious bowl of High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup that’s sure to warm hearts! Enjoy!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can elevate your dining experience. This rich and creamy soup is not only comforting but versatile, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty bread loaf is perfect for dipping into the soup, adding texture and flavor.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A light mixed greens salad can balance the richness of the soup. Consider a vinaigrette dressing for a refreshing contrast.

Top with Croutons

• Homemade or store-bought croutons add an extra crunch. Season them with herbs for added flavor.

Serve with Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

• Classic grilled cheese sandwiches complement the cheesy flavor of the soup perfectly, making for a nostalgic pairing.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives on top enhances presentation and adds a fresh taste.

Offer Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt

• A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can add creaminess and tanginess, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To make your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup even better, consider these simple tips. They will help achieve the best texture and taste.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality cheese yield better flavors compared to pre-packaged options.

• Blend Wisely: For a smoother consistency, blend only part of the soup instead of all at once. This keeps some texture while still thickening it.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper based on your preference after blending.

• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to sneak in more vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrients.

• Control Heat: Keep the heat low when adding dairy to prevent curdling. Slow heating keeps everything creamy.

• Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days; reheat gently on low heat.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing side dishes with your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter adds a flavorful crunch.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Parmesan and croutons provides a classic touch.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized offer a healthy and tasty addition.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs and lemon offers protein and freshness.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, or lentils create a hearty side that complements the soup.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries provide sweetness that balances the savory flavors of the soup.
7. Pita Chips with Hummus: Crunchy pita chips paired with hummus offer a satisfying dip option alongside your soup.
8. Sautéed Greens: Lightly sautéed spinach or kale seasoned with garlic can be a nutritious and delicious side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be a breeze, but avoiding common errors can make a big difference in the final result. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Overcooking the Broccoli: Cooking broccoli for too long can make it mushy and lose its vibrant color. Aim for 8-9 minutes of simmering to keep it tender yet firm.

• Not Blending Enough: Skipping the blending step may leave your soup chunky instead of creamy. Ensure you blend at least one cup of the soup to achieve that velvety texture.

• Using Too High Heat: Turning the heat up too high when adding milk can cause it to curdle. Always cook on low heat once you add the milk to maintain smoothness.

• Neglecting Seasoning: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning may lead to a bland soup. Always add salt and pepper gradually, tasting along the way for the best flavor.

• Ignoring Cheese Quality: Using pre-shredded cheese may affect melting quality. Opt for block cheese and shred it yourself for a creamy finish.

• Skipping the Garlic: Garlic adds depth and flavor to your soup. Don’t skip this ingredient; sauté it briefly with other vegetables for maximum impact.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Storage Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Container Type: Use glass or BPA-free plastic containers for best results.

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freezing Duration: The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Container Type: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a unique twist.

How can I increase the protein content further?

You can add cooked chicken or turkey chunks or mix in additional cottage cheese while blending for extra protein.

Is this soup gluten-free?

To make this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup gluten-free, simply use gluten-free flour as a thickening agent instead of all-purpose flour.

Can I make this soup vegan-friendly?

Yes! Substitute dairy products with plant-based alternatives, like almond milk and vegan cheese, while keeping nutrition in mind.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, kale, or peas for added nutrition and variety in flavors!

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze them if you want them longer!

Final Thoughts

The High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it ideal comfort food any time of year. You can easily customize it by adding more vegetables or trying different cheeses based on your preference. Give this recipe a try; you won’t regret it!