High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful blend of creamy textures and nutritious ingredients, making it an ideal comfort food for any occasion. With 20 grams of protein per serving, it’s not only satisfying but also packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a nourishing dish to serve at a gathering, this soup delivers on all fronts. Its rich taste and hearty consistency make it a standout recipe that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Protein: Each serving contains 20 grams of protein, perfect for fueling your day.
• Creamy Texture: The combination of cheddar and cottage cheese creates a rich, velvety soup that’s incredibly comforting.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use seasonal vegetables or swap out the cheese to suit your taste preferences.
• Healthy Comfort Food: This soup is made with wholesome ingredients that provide both nourishment and satisfaction.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this delicious soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process and great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Blender or immersion blender
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking large quantities while allowing room for stirring without spills.
• Blender or immersion blender: Crucial for achieving that smooth consistency; blending makes the soup creamy and enjoyable.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes prepping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring even cooking.

Ingredients

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 Thickening and Flavor

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

For the Soup

• 3 cups vegetable broth (preferably not-chicken style)
• 4 cups chopped broccoli
• 2 cups 1% milk

For Creaminess

• 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 onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 10 minutes until softened, stirring frequently. Then add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute.

Step 2: Add Flour and Spices

Stir in the smoked paprika along with the flour. Cook for one more minute to coat the vegetables evenly with flour.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth and Broccoli

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

Step 4: Incorporate Dairy

Lower the heat before adding the milk to prevent curdling. Stir until warmed through. Then mix in both the blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar until well combined.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess

Transfer one cup of the soup into a blender (be careful of steam), blend until smooth, then return it to the pot. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 6: Season to Taste

Finally, add salt and pepper as needed before serving warm. Enjoy your deliciously healthy High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can enhance the experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement this comforting dish.

Bread Pairings

• Crusty Baguette – A warm, fresh baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Garlic Breadsticks – These add a flavorful twist and are great for soaking up every drop of soup.

Toppings

• Chopped Chives – Fresh chives add a lovely color and mild onion flavor.
• Shredded Cheese – A sprinkle of extra cheddar on top makes for a cheesy finish.

Salad Accompaniments

• Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine and a zesty dressing provide a refreshing contrast.
• Garden Salad – A mix of greens and veggies adds freshness and crunch to your meal.

How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To achieve the best flavors and texture in your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh broccoli and quality cheese enhance the overall taste of the soup.
• Blend for Creaminess – Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture while keeping some chunks for heartiness.
• Monitor Heat Levels – Avoid high heat when adding dairy to prevent curdling; low and slow is key!
• Season Gradually – Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper in small amounts to avoid oversalting.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing side dishes with your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup elevates the meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich – A classic pairing that complements the soup’s creaminess; use whole-grain bread for added nutrition.
2. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice provide a nutritious option alongside.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil bring out their natural sweetness and add texture.
4. Quinoa Salad – A light salad made with quinoa, cucumber, and tomatoes offers a refreshing contrast.
5. Cornbread Muffins – Slightly sweet cornbread muffins pair well with the savory soup.
6. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide crunch and flavor that complements the soup perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, avoid these common mistakes to ensure a perfect dish every time.

• Skipping the sauté step: Not cooking the onions, carrots, and celery can lead to a bland soup. Always sauté until softened for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Cooking broccoli too long can cause it to lose its vibrant color and nutrients. Simmer just until tender for the best texture.
• Adding cheese too quickly: If you add cheese over high heat, it may curdle. Stir in cheese gently over low heat for a creamy consistency.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Tasting is essential! Always adjust salt and pepper at the end for the best flavor balance.
• Using cold milk: Adding cold milk can lower the soup’s temperature too quickly. Warm it slightly before incorporating it into the pot.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The soup lasts up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until warm throughout.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup healthy?

This soup is packed with protein from cottage cheese and cheddar, while broccoli adds vitamins and fiber, making it a nutritious choice.

Can I make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegan?

Yes! Substitute dairy milk with plant-based milk and use vegan cheese alternatives to create a delicious vegan version of this soup.

How can I customize my High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or kale, or incorporate different cheeses for varied flavors. You can also adjust spices according to your taste.

What should I serve with High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Pair it with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal that balances flavors and textures.

How do I thicken High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the soup before returning it to the pot or add more flour during cooking for extra thickness.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only creamy and delicious but also packed with nutrients! Its versatility allows for customization based on your preference. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a favorite comfort food in your kitchen!