High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful blend of creamy goodness and nutritious ingredients, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With 20 grams of protein per serving, this soup is not just comforting but also a healthy choice for anyone looking to up their protein intake. The rich flavors of cheddar cheese and fresh broccoli make it a family favorite that warms the soul.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and filling: Each serving packs a whopping 20 grams of protein, making it an ideal option for a balanced meal.
- Quick and easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can prepare this delicious soup without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Versatile: This recipe is perfect as a starter, a hearty lunch, or a cozy dinner. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal!
- Secretly healthy: Using low-fat cottage cheese and plenty of veggies means you can indulge without the guilt.
- Family-friendly: Kids love the cheesy flavor, while parents appreciate the hidden nutrition.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Blender (or immersion blender)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A good size pot allows you to cook all ingredients evenly without crowding.
- Blender: Blending creates the creamy texture that makes this soup irresistible. An immersion blender provides convenience without transferring hot soup.
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
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Liquid Ingredients
- 3 cups vegetable broth (I like the not-chicken style)
- 4 cups chopped broccoli
- 2 cups 1% milk
Cheeses
- 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese, blended
Additional Ingredients
- 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 it’s fully melted.
Step 2: Cook Vegetables
Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently until they soften.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking over medium heat for one more minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Incorporate Seasonings
Mix in the smoked paprika and flour. Stir continuously for one minute until all vegetables are coated with flour.
Step 5: Add Broth and Broccoli
Pour in the vegetable broth and add chopped broccoli. Bring this mixture to a simmer.
Step 6: Simmer Until Softened
Let the broccoli simmer for about 8-9 minutes or until it becomes tender.
Step 7: Add Milk
Lower heat and add the milk. Warm gently but do not bring it to a boil.
Step 8: Cheese Time
Stir in blended cottage cheese along with shredded cheddar cheese until both are melted smoothly into the soup.
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 for ease.
Step 10: Season to Taste
Taste your soup and add salt as needed before serving warm.
How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Serving High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can elevate your dining experience. This creamy soup is not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some delightful suggestions for serving.
With Crusty Bread
- Sourdough Bread: The tangy flavor of sourdough complements the richness of the soup perfectly.
- Garlic Bread: A buttery, garlicky slice adds an extra punch and makes for a cozy meal.
- Breadsticks: Soft and warm breadsticks can be dipped right into the soup.
Topped with Extras
- Croutons: Crunchy croutons add texture and can be seasoned to match your flavor preferences.
- Chopped Chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives brings a hint of onion flavor and color.
- Extra Cheese: A little more shredded cheddar on top makes every spoonful even more indulgent.
As Part of a Meal
- Salad: A light side salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Pairing with a classic grilled cheese is always a winning combination for comfort food lovers.
How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
To make your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli ensures better flavor and texture compared to frozen options.
- Blend Thoroughly: For a creamier consistency, blend the soup until smooth before adding cheese.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Control Heat Carefully: Keep the heat low when adding dairy to avoid curdling the milk.
Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Pairing side dishes with High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options.
- Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with light dressing provides a nice contrast to the creamy soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add nutrition and depth of flavor to your meal.
- Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad will complement your soup beautifully.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad brings sweetness that contrasts well with savory flavors.
- Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These fluffy biscuits make a perfect accompaniment for dipping in your soup.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory elements of the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté the vegetables first can lead to a lack of flavor. Always cook the onions, carrots, and celery until they soften.
- Using low-quality cheese: Not all cheddar melts well. Opt for a good quality sharp cheddar for the best results.
- Adding cold milk: Pouring in cold milk can cause the soup to curdle. Make sure to warm it slightly before adding.
- Not blending enough: For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup. This helps combine the flavors while keeping some chunks of broccoli for texture.
- Overcooking broccoli: Cooking broccoli too long can make it mushy. Simmer just until it’s tender but still vibrant green.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Containers: Use an airtight container to keep the soup fresh.
Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave some space for expansion.
Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely. Stir every minute until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a pot, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries regarding this recipe.
Can I make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegan?
Yes! Substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and nutritional yeast instead of cheese.
How do I customize High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
You can add other vegetables like spinach or kale or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.
What can I serve with High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Is High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and tastes even better after resting, making it ideal for meal prep.
Final Thoughts
This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or as a healthy lunch option. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of cheddar cheese with fresh broccoli, making it a family favorite. With 20 grams of protein per serving, this nutritious soup is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or special occasions. It’s quick to prepare in just 35 minutes and can be customized with your favorite add-ins. Whether served as a starter or paired with crusty bread for a complete meal, this soup promises to warm your soul without the guilt, thanks to its healthy ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 4 cups chopped broccoli
- 2 cups 1% milk
- 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, carrot, and celery; cook for about 10 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Mix in flour and smoked paprika; stir continuously for one minute.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add chopped broccoli; bring to a simmer.
- Simmer for about 8-9 minutes until broccoli is tender.
- Lower heat and add milk; warm gently without boiling.
- Stir in blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar until melted.
- Blend one cup of soup until smooth (or use an immersion blender).
- Season with salt and pepper before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
