High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful blend of comfort and health. Packed with 20 grams of protein per serving, it’s perfect for cozy dinners or hearty lunches. The creamy texture and rich flavors make it a standout dish that everyone will love, whether you’re feeding the family or hosting friends. Enjoy this healthy twist on a classic favorite anytime!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich in Protein: Each serving contains 20 grams of protein, making it not only delicious but also a great way to fuel your day.
• Creamy Texture: The combination of cheddar cheese and blended cottage cheese creates an irresistibly creamy soup.
• Quick and Easy Preparation: With just 35 minutes total time, you can whip up this comforting dish in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Indulge in a classic flavor without the guilt, thanks to the nutritious ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make this recipe seamless and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Blender (or immersion blender)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing room for all ingredients.
• Blender: Helps achieve a smooth consistency by blending part of the soup, enhancing its creaminess.
• Chef’s knife: A quality knife makes chopping vegetables quick and efficient, saving you prep time.

Ingredients

To make this delicious High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’ll need:

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 Flavor

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 3 cups vegetable broth (not-chicken style)

For the Soup

• 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 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 for one additional minute.

Step 4: Incorporate Spices and Flour

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

Step 5: Add Broth and Broccoli

Pour in vegetable broth along with chopped broccoli. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Step 6: Simmer Until Tender

Simmer the broccoli for about 8-9 minutes until it becomes tender.

Step 7: Add Milk

Lower heat and add milk. Cook gently until warmed through without boiling.

Step 8: Mix in Cheeses

Incorporate blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar. Stir until melted completely.

Step 9: Blend Soup

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

Step 10: Season

Taste soup before serving; add salt and pepper as needed.

Enjoy your hearty bowl of High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can elevate your meal experience. This creamy soup pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its flavor and texture.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked baguette or sourdough is perfect for dipping into the rich soup, adding a satisfying crunch.

Topped with Croutons

• Homemade or store-bought croutons provide a delightful crunch and extra texture that complements the creaminess of the soup.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top can add a fruity flavor and richness to the dish.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped chives, parsley, or cilantro can brighten up the flavors and give a pop of color to your bowl.

Served with a Side Salad

• A simple green salad with a vinaigrette can balance out the creaminess of the soup and add freshness to the meal.

Accompanied by Cheese Toast

• Melted cheese on toasted bread makes for an indulgent side that pairs beautifully with this comforting soup.

How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To achieve an exceptional High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, consider these tips for enhancing flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and vegetables will add vibrant flavors compared to frozen or canned options.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper to ensure maximum flavor.

• Blend for Creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a smooth texture while still leaving some chunks for added interest.

• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different types of cheese, like sharp cheddar or gouda, for unique flavors in your soup.

• Thickening Options: If you prefer a thicker soup, add more blended cottage cheese or reduce the amount of broth slightly.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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

1. Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the soup perfectly while offering a satisfying crunch.

2. Stuffed Peppers: These colorful veggies stuffed with quinoa or rice make for a nutritious side filled with extra protein.

3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds depth and variety to your meal.

4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with fresh veggies provides a healthy balance alongside the creamy soup.

5. Apple Slices with Nut Butter: Crisp apple slices drizzled with nut butter offer a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the soup.

6. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Classic grilled cheese sandwiches provide comfort food vibes that pair well with broccoli cheddar soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be simple, but small mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Neglecting the Vegetables: Failing to sauté the onion, carrots, and celery properly can result in a bland soup. Make sure to cook them until they are softened and fragrant.

• Skipping the Blending Step: Not blending part of the soup can leave it chunky instead of creamy. Take the time to blend a portion for that perfect smooth texture.

• Using High Heat: Cooking at too high a temperature after adding milk can curdle it. Always keep the heat low when incorporating dairy ingredients.

• Overcooking Broccoli: Cooking broccoli for too long makes it mushy and less vibrant. Aim for about 8-9 minutes for ideal tenderness.

• Ignoring Seasoning: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning can lead to a bland soup. Always taste before serving and add salt and pepper as needed.

• Choosing Low-Quality Cheese: Using pre-shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents that affect melting. Opt for freshly shredded cheese for a better texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Label containers with the date of freezing for reference.

Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and place soup in an oven-safe dish, covering it with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.

• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.

• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How many servings does this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe make?

This recipe yields 8 servings, perfect for meal prep or sharing with family.

Can I make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and keep all other ingredients plant-based.

What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?

You can use any sharp cheese or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer a vegan-friendly version.

How do I thicken my High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, simply blend more of the soup or add extra flour during cooking.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like cauliflower or spinach for added nutrients and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrition, making it an excellent addition to your meal rotation. It’s versatile enough to customize with different vegetables or cheeses based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Indulge in a bowl of comfort with this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup. This wholesome recipe combines the rich, creamy flavors of cheddar cheese and blended cottage cheese with the nutritional powerhouse of broccoli, delivering 20 grams of protein per serving. Perfect for cozy dinners or hearty lunches, this soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with healthful ingredients that will satisfy your cravings without compromising on taste. In just 35 minutes, you can enjoy a nutritious meal that the whole family will love. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices for a personal touch!

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Ingredients

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• 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)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 4 cups chopped broccoli
• 2 cups 1% milk
• 4 oz shredded cheddar cheese (about 1 cup)
• 1 cup blended low-fat cottage cheese
• Salt & pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for about 10 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add smoked paprika and flour; stir for one minute until coated.
5. Pour in vegetable broth and add broccoli; bring to a simmer.
6. Cook until broccoli is tender (8-9 minutes).
7. Lower heat and add milk; warm through without boiling.
8. Mix in cheeses until melted completely.
9. Blend part of the soup for creaminess; return to pot or use an immersion blender.
10. Season with salt and pepper as desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 15mg