High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful blend of creamy textures and vibrant flavors, making it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner. Packed with 20 grams of protein per serving, this comforting soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly day or preparing a healthy meal option for the family, this recipe stands out with its rich flavor and nutritious ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious Boost: With 20 grams of protein per serving, this soup helps you stay full and satisfied.
• Easy Preparation: Quick to whip up in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use seasonal veggies or whatever you have on hand for endless variations.
• Creamy Texture: The blended cottage cheese gives this soup a rich creaminess without heavy cream.
• Kid-Friendly Flavor: The delicious combination of broccoli and cheddar makes it appealing to both kids and adults.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process as smooth as possible, gather these essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Blender (or immersion blender)
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup to perfection.
• Blender: Helps achieve the desired creamy consistency by blending some of the soup smoothly.
• Cutting board & Chef’s knife: Essential for safely chopping vegetables with precision.

Ingredients

This recipe utilizes wholesome ingredients that contribute to both flavor and nutrition.

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour, if needed)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Liquid and Creaminess

• 3 cups vegetable broth (preferably not-chicken style)
• 4 cups chopped broccoli
• 2 cups 1% milk
• 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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How to Make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Sauté 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 the vegetables are softened.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then sprinkle the smoked paprika and flour over the vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional minute to toast the flour slightly.

Step 3: Add Broth and Broccoli

Pour in the vegetable broth and add the chopped broccoli. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 8–9 minutes or until the broccoli is tender.

Step 4: Add Milk and Cheese

Reduce heat to low. Stir in the milk along with the blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently until all cheese has melted completely into the soup. Be careful not to let it boil; high heat can curdle the milk.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess

Transfer about 1 cup of soup into a blender. Blend until smooth while allowing steam to escape through the vent. Return this blended portion back into the pot. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to achieve a creamier texture while keeping some chunks intact.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste your soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm in bowls garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your nutritious bowl of high protein broccoli cheddar soup!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be a delightful experience, enhancing both the flavor and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette makes for perfect dipping into the creamy soup.
• Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the richness of the soup beautifully.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls add a comforting touch and help soak up every bit of the soup.

Add Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar on top adds richness and visual appeal.
• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or chives can provide a fresh contrast to the creamy texture.
• Croutons: Crunchy croutons offer a delightful texture contrast and enhance the overall flavor.

Serve with Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad can balance the richness of the soup, adding freshness to your meal.
• Caesar Salad: The tangy dressing in Caesar salad pairs well with the cheesy notes of the soup.

How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creating the perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out creamy and delicious.

• Bold Flavoring: Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more robust flavor that stands out in each bite.
• Careful Blending: When blending part of the soup, allow steam to escape to avoid pressure build-up in your blender.
• Adjust Thickness: Feel free to add more broth if you prefer a thinner consistency; adjust according to your taste.
• Taste as You Go: Season gradually throughout cooking to achieve balanced flavors without overpowering any single ingredient.
• Garnish Creatively: Consider using toppings like crispy bacon or toasted nuts for added texture and visual appeal.

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Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing that adds gooeyness and crunch, perfect for dipping!
2. Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, quinoa salad brings added protein and freshness alongside your soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and complement the soup’s flavor profile nicely.
4. Stuffed Peppers: These hearty dishes filled with grains or meat offer a satisfying side that pairs well with broccoli cheddar flavors.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide a fun texture contrast while remaining easy to prepare.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness and balances the savory notes of the soup perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Failing to sauté the vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Always cook the onions, carrots, and celery until softened to enhance their flavors.
• Using the Wrong Cheese: Not choosing the right type of cheese can affect taste and texture. Opt for sharp cheddar for maximum flavor in your soup.
• Boiling the Soup: Boiling the soup after adding dairy can cause it to curdle. Always keep the heat low when incorporating milk and cheese.
• Not Blending Enough: If you don’t blend a portion of the soup, it may not achieve that creamy consistency. Blend at least one cup of soup to create a rich texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Underseasoning your soup can leave it flat. Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving for a well-rounded flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze in individual portions for easy meal prep.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; remove as much air as possible.

Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring frequently until hot.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent curdling.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegan?

You can substitute the dairy with plant-based milk and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for flavor.

Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well, but be sure to adjust cooking time since it may take less time to soften.

What are some variations of High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Consider adding cooked chicken or turkey for extra protein or mixing in other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach.

How do I thicken my High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

If you want a thicker consistency, you can blend more of the soup or add additional flour mixed with broth.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding proteins like chicken or swapping out vegetables based on what you have on hand. Enjoy this comforting dish for lunch or dinner!