High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This rich and creamy broccoli cheddar soup combines comforting flavors with a nutritional boost, offering 20g of protein per serving. It’s the perfect option for a wholesome lunch or dinner, blending the classic cheddar taste with healthy ingredients.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Protein-packed: A satisfying 20g protein per serving makes this a balanced meal option.
• Light yet creamy: Enjoy a velvety texture without the need for heavy cream.
• Vegetarian-friendly: Perfect for a meatless meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
• Meal prep-friendly: Store and reheat easily for busy days.

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Preparation Phase

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Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven: To cook the soup evenly.
• Immersion blender or standard blender: For achieving a smooth and creamy texture.
• Cutting board and sharp knife: To efficiently chop vegetables.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without damaging the pot.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accuracy for the best results.

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Preparation Tips

• Chop all vegetables before starting for a smoother cooking process.
• Blend cottage cheese ahead of time for a silky consistency.
• Use sharp cheddar for the richest flavor.

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Ingredients

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Vegetables and Base Ingredients:

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

Spices and Thickeners:

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a GF option)
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Liquids:

• 3 cups vegetable broth (preferably “not-chicken” style)
• 2 cups 1% milk

Main Ingredients:

• 4 cups chopped broccoli
• 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
• 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese (blended until smooth)

Seasoning:

• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Step-by-Step Instructions

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1. Sauté Vegetables

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

2. Add Garlic and Spices

• Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Sprinkle smoked paprika and flour over the vegetables. Mix well and cook for another minute.

3. Add Broth and Broccoli

• Pour in the vegetable broth and add chopped broccoli.
• Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 8–9 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.

4. Incorporate Milk and Cheese

• Reduce heat to low. Stir in the milk, blended cottage cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese.
• Stir gently until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated. Avoid boiling, as high heat can cause the milk to curdle.

5. Blend for Creaminess

• Blend 1 cup of soup in a blender, leaving the vent open for steam to escape. Return to the pot and stir.
• Alternatively, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup directly in the pot for a creamier texture while keeping some chunks intact.

6. Season and Serve

• Taste the soup and add salt and pepper, as needed.
• Serve warm, garnished with extra shredded cheddar or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for presentation.
• Protein Boost: Blended cottage cheese adds creaminess and protein without extra fat.

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Notes

• Adjusting Thickness: For a thinner soup, add an additional 1 cup of broth.
• Cheese Substitution: Use sharp cheddar for a bold flavor, but feel free to experiment with gouda or a cheddar blend.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup with these complementary ideas:

• Pair it with crusty whole-grain bread for a satisfying, hearty meal.
• Serve alongside a simple green salad with a tangy lemon vinaigrette.
• Garnish the soup with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or extra shredded cheddar for added creaminess.
• Add a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or croutons for a delightful crunch.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Master the art of making this soup by sidestepping these pitfalls:

1. Curdling the dairy:
   • Keep the heat low when adding milk and cheese to avoid separation.
   • Stir constantly and avoid boiling once dairy is added.
2. Overcooking the broccoli:
   • Simmer only until tender to maintain the best texture and vibrant green color.
3. Skipping the blending step:
   • Blending part of the soup ensures creaminess and balances the texture.
4. Using low-quality cheese:
   • Opt for sharp cheddar or freshly grated cheese for the richest flavor. Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly.

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Side Dish Recommendations

Complement this protein-packed soup with these flavorful side dishes:

1. Garlic Breadsticks:
   • Soft, buttery breadsticks with a hint of garlic perfectly pair with the soup’s creamy texture.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes:
   • Sweet and caramelized potatoes bring balance to the savory cheddar flavors.
3. Kale Caesar Salad:
   • Toss fresh kale with a tangy Caesar dressing for a refreshing contrast.
4. Quinoa and Vegetable Pilaf:
   • A light, protein-rich grain dish to enhance the nutritional value of your meal.
5. Herb and Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
   • Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic complement the velvety soup.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze:
   • The crispy, caramelized sprouts add a touch of acidity and texture.
7. Grilled Cheese Sandwich:
   • A classic pairing that transforms the soup into a comforting, indulgent meal.
8. Avocado and Tomato Salad:
   • Fresh avocado and juicy tomatoes tossed with olive oil create a light and healthy side.

Recipe Tips

• Use sharp cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar provides a bold and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with broccoli.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg: This subtle spice enhances the creamy, cheesy base of the soup.
• Experiment with mix-ins: Add diced cooked chicken, crispy bacon bits, or sautéed mushrooms for variety.
• Double the recipe for meal prep: This soup stores well, making it ideal for batch cooking.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. However, note that the texture may change slightly due to the dairy.

Reheating:

• On the stovetop: Reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent curdling.
• In the microwave: Heat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between to ensure even reheating.
• Thickening tip: If the soup becomes too thin during reheating, stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water, cooking until it thickens.

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FAQs

1. Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes! Replace butter with plant-based butter, use almond or soy milk, and substitute cheddar cheese with a vegan alternative like nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheddar. Blend silken tofu or cashew cream for the cottage cheese replacement.

2. How can I increase the protein further?

• Add a scoop of unflavored protein powder during the blending step.
• Stir in cooked quinoa or lentils for a natural protein boost.

3. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well in this recipe and reduces prep time. Simmer just until tender, as frozen broccoli cooks faster.

4. Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. The recipe is naturally adaptable to gluten-free diets.

5. How do I thin or thicken the soup?

• To thin: Add more vegetable broth or milk, 1/4 cup at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
• To thicken: Stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water or blend more soup for a thicker base.

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Conclusion

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect combination of comforting flavors and health-conscious ingredients. Its creamy texture, rich cheddar flavor, and nutritional boost make it a meal you’ll return to time and time again. Whether you’re meal prepping, serving family dinner, or enjoying a cozy solo meal, this soup satisfies every craving while keeping you nourished.

Try it today and fall in love with a protein-packed twist on a classic favorite!