As I stood by the stove, a comforting aroma wafted through my kitchen, instantly reminding me of cozy winter nights spent savoring a warm bowl of my favorite dish. This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not just a meal; it’s a nourishing embrace on chilly days, boasting 20 grams of protein in every serving! With creamy cottage cheese adding richness without guilt, this vegetarian delight brings a healthy twist to a classic favorite. The blend of tender broccoli and cheesy goodness creates a satisfying, cozy experience that everyone at the table will love. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it the perfect go-to for busy weeknights. Are you ready to discover how easy it is to whip up this heartwarming dish?
Why is this Broccoli Cheddar Soup special?
Nourishing Comfort: This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup offers a warm, cozy hug in a bowl—perfect for chilly evenings.
Flavorful Twist: With creamy cottage cheese, we’ve elevated the classic recipe, allowing for rich texture and taste without excess calories.
Quick to Prepare: You can whip this up in under 30 minutes, making it a fabulous choice for busy weeknights.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite greens or cheeses for a personalized touch, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys it.
Protein Powerhouse: Each serving packs a generous 20 grams of protein—ideal for those seeking nutritious comfort! Want to complement your soup with other delightful options? Check out our Garlic Tomato Soup or some Pepperoni Pizza Soup!
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Broccoli – Adds nutrition and texture; fresh or frozen florets work well.
• Vegetable Broth – The flavorful liquid foundation; opt for low-sodium to control salt levels.
• Onion – Finely chopped to enhance depth of flavor; consider a shallot for a milder taste.
• Garlic – Fresh minced for best flavor, while garlic powder can work in a pinch.
• Olive Oil – For sautéing your aromatics; can be swapped with butter if desired.
For the Creaminess
• Cottage Cheese – Provides protein and creaminess without extra fat; substitute with Greek yogurt for a different flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese – Classic cheese that delivers authentic flavor; feel free to use low-fat or vegan options.
Seasoning
• Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Salt – Enhances all flavors; tailor to your liking for this scrumptious broccoli cheddar soup.
Feel free to add extras like a sprinkle of herbs or additional veggies to further customize your comforting creation!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Step 1: Sauté Base
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, stirring frequently. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until the onion is translucent and fragrant, creating a savory foundation for your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
Step 2: Cook Broccoli
Next, add 4 cups of fresh or frozen broccoli florets along with 4 cups of low-sodium vegetable broth to the pot. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and bright green.
Step 3: Blend Soup
Once the broccoli is cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until you reach your desired consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a countertop blender in batches. Blend until smooth, being cautious of any hot splashes during this step.
Step 4: Incorporate Dairy
Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in 1 cup of cottage cheese and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Heat the soup over low to medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring continuously, until the cheeses melt completely and the soup becomes creamy and inviting.
Step 5: Adjust Consistency
If you prefer a thinner soup, gradually add more vegetable broth—about 1/2 cup at a time—stirring until the desired consistency is achieved. This step is crucial for tailoring your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup to your personal preference, ensuring it’s just right for your taste.
Step 6: Season
Taste your delicious broccoli cheddar soup and season with salt and black pepper to your liking. Allow the flavors to meld for another minute or two over low heat. Serve the soup hot, optionally garnished with additional cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a delightful touch.
Storage Tips for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Fridge: Store your broccoli cheddar soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring frequently for even warmth.
Freezer: Although not ideal due to potential dairy separation, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. If you choose to freeze, consider omitting the cheese until reheating to maintain texture.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of broth or milk to help restore creaminess. Heat over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to avoid scorching.
Thawing: For frozen broccoli cheddar soup, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Stir well after thawing to reincorporate any separated ingredients.
Make Ahead Options
This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a fantastic choice for meal prep, helping you save precious time on busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables and sauté the onion and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate them in an airtight container. The soup can also be fully prepared and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; just reheat it gently on the stove while stirring frequently to preserve its creamy texture. To maintain quality, avoid freezing the soup as the dairy can separate. When you’re ready to serve, simply stir in the cottage cheese and cheddar over low heat until melted, and enjoy a comforting bowl of soup just as delicious as when freshly made!
What to Serve with High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This delightful vegetarian creation deserves the perfect companions to round out your meal and enhance your cozy dining experience.
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Crusty Bread: The perfect vehicle for soaking up every last drop of this creamy soup, crusty bread adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
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Apple Walnut Kale Salad: A bright, fresh salad with crunchy walnuts and sweet apples, balancing the richness of the soup with zest and texture.
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Roasted Veggies: Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables bring out natural sweetness and textures, creating a hearty side that complements the velvety soup beautifully.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery, and fragrant with garlic, these breadsticks make for a delightful dipper and elevate your soup experience to new heights.
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Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad adds chewiness and earthy flavors, providing a nutritious side that meshes perfectly with the cheesy notes of the soup.
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Sparkling Water with Lemon: This refreshing drink cleanses your palate and enhances the overall enjoyment of your meal, making each bite vibrant and exciting.
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Cheesy Cauliflower Mash: Creamy yet light, cauliflower mash pairs wonderfully with the broccoli cheddar soup by offering an indulgent yet healthy touch.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, warm chocolate chip cookies bring a sweet finish to your meal—comfort food at its finest that everyone will adore!
Broccoli Cheddar Soup Variations
Feel free to make this comforting broccoli cheddar soup your own with these exciting twists, bringing new flavors and textures to each bowl!
- Dairy-Free: Swap cottage cheese and cheddar for blended silken tofu and vegan cheese for a vegan-friendly version.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or bell peppers while sautéing for an added burst of color and nutrition. This simple addition elevates both the taste and health benefits!
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper during blending for a delightful kick. This will warm up your soup in the most delicious way.
- Loaded Version: Top your soup with crumbled crispy bacon or roasted chickpeas for a heartier dish that satisfies all cravings. The different textures create an enjoyable eating experience!
- Asian Fusion: Mix in a splash of soy sauce and serve with sesame seeds to give your soup an intriguing Asian twist. It’s a delightful transformation of this classic!
- Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or basil for an aromatic finish. This simple addition brightens up the soup and breathes life into the flavors.
- Normandy Style: Replace some broccoli with cauliflower for a rich, creamy blend. The combination offers a dreamy consistency everyone will fall in love with.
- Pair It Up: Consider serving this alongside a warm, crusty bread or salad for a complete meal. Don’t forget to check out our Flavorful Sweet Potato Vegetable Soup for more comforting options that go well with it!
Let your culinary creativity flow and enjoy every spoonful!
Expert Tips for Broccoli Cheddar Soup
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Broccoli Selection: Choose bright green, fresh broccoli for optimal flavor. Older broccoli can taste bitter and may ruin your delicious soup.
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Cottage Cheese Warnings: Ensure the cottage cheese is well-blended to avoid lumps in your soup. A smooth consistency enhances the experience of your Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
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Cheese Melting: Add cheese slowly while continuously stirring. This ensures that it melts perfectly and combines well, creating that creamy texture you desire.
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Seasoning Balance: Always taste your soup before serving to adjust seasoning. A little extra salt or pepper can make a significant difference in flavor.
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Thinner Soup Tip: If you prefer a more liquid texture, add broth incrementally until you achieve your desired consistency, but remember to blend well before adjusting!
High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of broccoli should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Choose bright green, fresh broccoli that feels firm when touched. Avoid any with dark spots or wilting, as they can taste bitter and diminish the flavors in your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup. If you’re pressed for time, frozen broccoli florets are a convenient option—just ensure they are thawed and thoroughly drained.
How should I store leftover broccoli cheddar soup?
To keep your delicious High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend doing so gently on the stove or microwave, stirring frequently to maintain that creamy texture you love.
Can I freeze this soup and how do I do it?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze your broccoli cheddar soup for up to 2 months. To do this, prepare the soup without adding the cheese. After cooling completely, pour the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space to allow for expansion. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then stir in the cheese while reheating to restore its creamy goodness.
What if my soup is too thick?
If your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is thicker than you’d like, no problem! Simply add vegetable broth gradually, about ½ cup at a time, while stirring until you reach your desired consistency. This way, you maintain control over the soup’s thickness without compromising the flavors.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, indeed! This soup is vegetarian and can be modified to suit various dietary needs. If you’re gluten-free, there’s no need for concern as all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. For lactose intolerance, consider substituting the cottage cheese and cheddar with dairy-free options like nutritional yeast or cashew cream. Always check labels to avoid any allergens if cooking for others.
How long can I keep leftovers in the fridge?
Your delectable High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container! When you’re ready to indulge, reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often, to keep that creamy texture intact.
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup with a Healthy Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onion is translucent.
- Add broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a countertop blender in batches.
- Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese, heating over low to medium heat for about 5 minutes.
- If the soup is too thick, gradually add more vegetable broth to reach desired consistency.
- Taste and season with salt and black pepper. Serve hot, garnished with cheese or herbs if desired.