High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful blend of rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With 20 grams of protein per serving, this soup not only satisfies your cravings but also supports your health goals. Whether you need a quick weeknight meal or a warm dish to share with friends, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup will keep you satisfied for longer.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this soup in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or cheese for a unique twist every time.
• Creamy Texture: The combination of cheddar and cottage cheese creates a luscious, creamy base that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this delicious soup, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Blender or immersion blender
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking all your ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Blender or immersion blender: Helps achieve the desired creamy texture by blending part of the soup smoothly.
• Cutting board & Sharp knife: Ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables for even cooking.

Ingredients

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

Base Ingredients

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

Flavor Enhancers

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

Main Components

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

Creamy Elements

• 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: Sauté the Vegetables

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

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Add the minced garlic to the pot. Continue to cook over medium heat for one minute. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika along with the flour. Stir well so that all vegetables are coated.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth

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

Step 4: Incorporate Dairy

Reduce heat to low and add in the milk. Heat until warm. Then mix in blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently until melted; avoid high heat to prevent curdling.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess

Take one cup of soup from the pot and transfer it into a blender. Blend until smooth while allowing steam to escape through the vent. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot for a chunkier consistency.

Step 6: Final Seasoning

Return blended soup back into the pot. Adjust salt and pepper according to taste before serving hot.

Enjoy your healthy High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can elevate the experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty bread complements the creamy texture of the soup perfectly. Consider a whole grain or sourdough loaf for added flavor.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top not only adds color but also brings a burst of freshness to each bite.

Add a Dollop of Greek Yogurt

• A spoonful of Greek yogurt can add creaminess and a tangy flavor that balances well with the richness of the cheese in the soup.

Serve in a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, hollow out a small round loaf of bread and serve the soup inside. This makes for an impressive presentation and deliciously edible bowl!

Include a Side Salad

• A light side salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a simple vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.

Offer Extra Cheese on the Side

• For cheese lovers, offering extra shredded cheddar on the side allows each person to customize their bowl just how they like it.

How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Perfecting your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out wonderfully every time.

• Use Fresh Broccoli – Fresh broccoli has better flavor and texture than frozen. Look for bright green florets without yellowing.

• Blend the Cottage Cheese Well – Blending cottage cheese before adding it ensures it incorporates smoothly into the soup without lumps.

• Monitor Cooking Temperature – Keep the heat low when adding milk and cheese; high temperatures can cause curdling, ruining that creamy consistency.

• Taste as You Go – Always taste your soup while cooking to adjust seasoning as needed. This helps you achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

• Adjust Thickness – If you prefer a thicker soup, blend more of it before returning it to the pot. For thinner consistency, add more broth or milk gradually.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing side dishes with your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options that complement this comforting dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread – Perfect for dipping, garlic bread adds an irresistible crunch and flavor that pairs well with creamy soups.

2. Caesar Salad – The crisp romaine lettuce with tangy dressing creates a refreshing contrast against the rich soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal roasted veggies enhances nutrition and adds depth to your meal.

4. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers provides freshness and texture.

5. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and beans make for a hearty accompaniment that’s nutritious too.

6. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful sweetness that balances the savory flavors of the soup.

7. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds brightness and texture, making each bite interesting and dynamic.

8. Potato Wedges – Crispy baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer satisfying crunch alongside your warm bowl of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While making your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results:

• Overcooking broccoli: Cooking the broccoli for too long can make it mushy. Aim for 8-9 minutes of simmering to keep it tender yet vibrant.
• Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season your soup can result in bland flavors. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Using high heat: Cooking on high heat can cause the milk to curdle. Keep the heat low when adding dairy products for a creamy texture.
• Skipping blending: Not blending part of the soup will lead to a chunky texture. Blend at least a cup for a smoother consistency while retaining some chunkiness.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Adding cold ingredients straight from the fridge can lower the soup’s temperature. Allow dairy products to sit at room temperature before adding them.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each session until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or curdling.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, here are some answers:

Can I make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegan?

Yes! Substitute dairy with plant-based milk and use a vegan cheese alternative.

How do I adjust the protein content?

You can add more cottage cheese or include cooked turkey or chicken pieces for an extra protein boost.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to mix in cauliflower, spinach, or peas for added nutrients and flavor.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead?

Absolutely! Just reduce the cooking time slightly since frozen broccoli is already blanched.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not just comforting; it’s also packed with nutrients. It’s perfect as a meal on its own or paired with crusty bread. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it uniquely yours!