High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful spin on a classic comfort food. It’s rich and creamy while packing in 20 grams of protein per serving! Perfect for chilly nights or as a nutritious lunch, this soup will warm you up while keeping your health goals in check. With its wholesome ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite for families and meal-preppers alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Comfort: This soup combines the indulgent flavors of cheddar cheese with the nutrition of broccoli, making it a guilt-free treat.
• Protein-Packed: With 20 grams of protein in every serving, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking to boost their protein intake.
• Quick and Easy: Preparation only takes 10 minutes, and cooking is just 25 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Great on its own or paired with crusty bread, this soup can be enjoyed any time of the year.
• Customizable Flavor: Adjust the seasonings and cheese types to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’ll need a few essential tools that will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

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 allows for even cooking and provides enough space for all ingredients to blend together beautifully.
• Blender: This tool is crucial for achieving that creamy texture; blending part of the soup adds a delightful thickness without losing vegetable chunks.
• Cutting board & knife: These are essential for efficiently chopping your vegetables to ensure even cooking.

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!

Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Broth and Vegetables

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

Creaminess Factor

• 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 until bubbly.

Step 2: Sauté 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.
– Cook for one additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour & Spices

Mix in the smoked paprika and flour.
– Stir continuously for one minute until all vegetables are coated in flour.

Step 5: Add Broth & Broccoli

Pour in the vegetable broth along with chopped broccoli.
– Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 6: Simmer Until Tender

Allow the broccoli to simmer for about 8-9 minutes or until tender.

Step 7: Mix in Milk

Stir in the milk.
– Cook over low heat until warmed through but do not boil.

Step 8: Cheese Time

Add both blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese.
– Stir gently until melted, being cautious not to curdle the milk.

Step 9: Blend for Creaminess

Transfer one cup of soup to a blender.
– Blend carefully with steam escaping through the vent. Return blended soup back into the pot. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot.

Step 10: Final Seasoning

Taste your soup before serving.
– Add salt and pepper as needed.

Enjoy your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup hot!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving high protein broccoli cheddar soup can elevate your dining experience. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, there are various ways to enhance the meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked sourdough or whole grain bread pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the soup.

Topped with Croutons

• Add crunchy croutons for a delightful contrast in texture. Store-bought or homemade croutons work well.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top adds a fresh flavor and a pop of color.

Paired with a Salad

• A light salad, such as a simple garden salad, complements the richness of the soup while adding freshness.

Served in Bread Bowls

• For a fun presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This makes for an interactive dining experience.

Accompanied by Cheese Toasts

• Melted cheese on toasted bread is another great addition. The cheesy goodness enhances the overall flavor profile.

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How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To ensure your high protein broccoli cheddar soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh broccoli and onions will significantly improve the flavor and texture of your soup.

• Adjust Thickness – If you prefer a thicker soup, blend more of it until you reach your desired consistency.

• Control Heat – Avoid boiling after adding cheese; this prevents curdling and keeps your soup creamy.

• Season to Taste – Always taste before serving. Adjust salt and pepper as necessary for the best flavor.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing side dishes with your high protein broccoli cheddar soup can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garden Salad – A mix of lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds crunch and freshness to your meal.
2. Garlic Bread – Savory garlic bread is perfect for dipping in the rich soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted veggies add extra nutrients and complement the flavors well.
4. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers provide a hearty option that balances the lightness of the soup.
5. Quinoa Salad – A nutritious quinoa salad offers additional protein and fiber.
6. Fruit Platter – A refreshing fruit platter can cleanse the palate and add sweetness to your meal.
7. Cheese Plate – A selection of cheeses enhances the cheesy notes in your broccoli cheddar soup.
8. Pasta Salad – A cold pasta salad brings a different texture and can be made ahead of time for convenience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the vegetable prep: Not chopping your vegetables uniformly can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure all ingredients are diced to similar sizes for consistent texture.

• Overcooking the broccoli: Cooking broccoli too long can make it mushy and lose its vibrant color. Simmer until just tender, about 8-9 minutes.

• Using low-quality cheese: Not all cheeses melt well. Choose a good quality sharp cheddar for the best flavor and creaminess in your soup.

• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to add enough salt and pepper can result in bland soup. Taste before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.

• Blending too much: Over-blending can turn your soup into a puree instead of a creamy texture with some chunks. Blend only part of the soup or use an immersion blender lightly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Leave some space in containers for expansion as the soup freezes.

Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, and heat for about 25-30 minutes until hot.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.

• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup that might help you out!

Can I make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute almond milk or coconut milk for regular milk and use dairy-free cheese instead of cheddar.

How do I increase protein in this soup?

You can add cooked chicken or turkey, or include more cottage cheese during blending for extra protein content.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a great alternative; just adjust simmering time as it may cook faster than fresh broccoli.

How should I serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad. Consider topping it with extra cheese or croutons for added crunch!

Final Thoughts

High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. Its versatility allows you to customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins based on your preference. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a deliciously healthy twist on classic comfort food!