High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Creamy & Healthy Comfort Food

Craving a creamy and comforting bowl of soup that also gives you a healthy protein boost? Look no further than this high protein broccoli cheddar soup. With 20 grams of protein per serving, this is a perfect blend of rich, cheesy goodness and nutritious ingredients. It’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to indulge in a cozy, heartwarming dish without compromising on health. Made with a special ingredient that adds both creaminess and protein, this soup is a satisfying meal for all.

Why This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Stands Out

This high protein broccoli cheddar soup is the perfect meal for anyone craving a healthy twist on a classic comfort food. Packed with protein from cottage cheese and cheddar, it keeps you feeling full and satisfied without all the excess fat typically found in creamy soups. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, this soup is an excellent choice for those looking for something nutritious and flavorful.

Ingredients

• Butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables.
• Onion: Brings a mild sweetness and depth of flavor to the base.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic infuses the soup with an aromatic, savory punch.
• Flour: Used as a thickener for the soup base, creating a creamy consistency.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky depth to the flavor profile.
• Broth: The base liquid that combines with the vegetables for a hearty, comforting soup.
• Broccoli: The star of the soup, providing fiber, vitamins, and that essential green crunch.
• Milk: Adds creaminess without making the soup too heavy.
• Cottage Cheese: A key ingredient for boosting protein content and providing extra creaminess without the saturated fat.
• Cheddar Cheese: Provides the signature cheesy flavor, especially when using sharp cheddar.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

• Butter: Swap for olive oil if you prefer a dairy-free or vegan version.
• Flour: Use gluten-free flour to make the soup suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Broccoli: If fresh broccoli isn’t available, frozen broccoli works just as well.
• Cottage Cheese: For a dairy-free alternative, try silken tofu, though it may change the texture slightly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute.
4. Stir in the smoked paprika and flour, cooking for one more minute to coat the vegetables evenly.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the chopped broccoli. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 8-9 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
6. Pour in the milk and stir to combine. Let the soup cook on low heat until it is warmed through.
7. Stir in the blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Allow the cheeses to melt fully. Be cautious not to increase the heat too much to avoid curdling the milk.
8. To make the soup extra creamy, transfer one cup of the soup to a blender, blend it until smooth, and return it to the pot. Alternatively, use an immersion blender for a more rustic texture.
9. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Tips & Tricks

• Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow the vegetables to cook until softened to extract the most flavor.
• Check Your Broccoli: Ensure the broccoli is tender, but avoid overcooking, as it can lose its vibrant color and texture.
• Make it Creamier: For an even richer texture, add more blended cottage cheese or use whole milk.
• Storage: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove, stirring occasionally.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This high protein broccoli cheddar soup pairs wonderfully with healthy sides such as a fresh apple walnut kale salad or a vegan chopped salad. You can also serve it with whole grain bread or a side of roasted vegetables to make it a full meal. For variations, you can experiment with adding some spicy kick by stirring in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce.

For those looking to reduce their dairy intake, try substituting the cheddar and cottage cheese with plant-based alternatives. Although this may slightly alter the flavor and texture, it will still offer a creamy and satisfying experience.

Make-Ahead Notes

This high protein broccoli cheddar soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days. It’s an excellent option for meal prep, making it perfect for busy weeks when you need a quick and nutritious meal. However, avoid freezing the soup, as dairy-based soups tend to separate and lose their creamy consistency once thawed.

Conclusion

Incorporating protein into your meals doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor. This high protein broccoli cheddar soup strikes the perfect balance between being comforting, creamy, and nutritious. With 20 grams of protein per serving, it’s an ideal choice for a satisfying lunch or dinner, especially when you’re craving something cozy but want to stick to a healthy eating plan. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a modern twist. The addition of cottage cheese not only boosts the protein content but also creates a velvety texture that pairs wonderfully with the sharp cheddar flavor. So, if you’re looking for a dish that will keep you full, warm, and nourished, this high protein broccoli cheddar soup is the perfect answer!

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More Relevant Recipes

• Healthy Broccoli Pasta: This vibrant pasta dish is packed with broccoli and a creamy sauce, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy the fresh taste of broccoli with a lighter, comforting base. It’s a great way to add more vegetables to your meal while keeping things creamy and delicious.
• Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup: This creamy, hearty soup blends sweet potatoes and butternut squash to create a warming, nutritious dish. It has a similar comfort food vibe to the broccoli cheddar soup, with a smooth texture and rich flavor that’s perfect for cozy nights.
• Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese: For those who enjoy a cheesy, creamy dish, this mac and cheese with a twist is perfect. The addition of butternut squash makes the sauce extra smooth and adds a touch of sweetness, making it a comforting yet healthy alternative to traditional mac and cheese.

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