High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delicious blend of creamy goodness and nutritious ingredients. With 20 grams of protein per serving, it’s not just a comforting dish but also a healthy option for lunch or dinner. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a hearty starter, this soup is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Enjoy it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich in Protein: Each serving has 20 grams of protein, making it a filling option that keeps you satisfied.
• Comforting Flavor: The creamy texture combined with the sharpness of cheddar cheese makes this soup irresistible.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can whip up this soup in just 35 minutes.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as an appetizer, main dish, or even as part of a cozy gathering with friends.
• Healthy Twist: Packed with vegetables and low-fat dairy, it’s a nutritious choice without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the following essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Blender or immersion blender
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: This allows you to cook all the ingredients evenly without spillage.
• Blender or immersion blender: Essential for achieving that creamy consistency that defines this high protein broccoli cheddar soup.

Ingredients

Vegetables

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chopped broccoli

Seasoning and Thickening Agents

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

Liquid Ingredients

• 3 cups vegetable broth (I like the not-chicken style)
• 2 cups 1% milk

Dairy

• 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
• 1 cup low fat cottage cheese, blended

Final Touches

• Salt & pepper to taste

How to Make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat until fully melted.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Cook for about 10 minutes while stirring frequently until they begin to soften.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for one minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour and Spices

Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and flour. Stir well for about one minute until the vegetables are coated evenly with flour.

Step 5: Pour in Broth and Broccoli

Add the vegetable broth along with the chopped broccoli. Bring this mixture to a simmer.

Step 6: Simmer Until Tender

Let the broccoli simmer for around 8-9 minutes until it becomes tender.

Step 7: Add Milk

Pour in the milk and lower the heat. Cook gently until the soup is warmed through.

Step 8: Mix in Cheeses

Stir in both blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until they melt completely. Avoid high heat to prevent curdling.

Step 9: Blend for Creaminess

Carefully transfer one cup of soup into a blender. Blend it while allowing steam to escape through the vent. Return this blended mixture back into the pot. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot for convenience.

Step 10: Season to Taste

Finally, add salt and pepper according to your taste preference.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this soup pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A thick slice of rustic bread adds texture and soaks up the soup perfectly.
• Consider sourdough for a tangy contrast.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley or chives brighten the dish.
• Add them just before serving for a fresh flavor boost.

Sprinkle with Extra Cheese

• A little extra shredded cheddar on top enhances the cheesy goodness.
• Try using different cheese varieties like gouda or pepper jack for added flavor.

Serve with Salad

• A simple green salad complements the richness of the soup.
• Opt for a light vinaigrette to balance the flavors.

Use as a Base for Other Ingredients

• Add cooked chicken or quinoa for extra protein.
• This can transform your soup into a complete meal.

Garnish with Croutons

• Homemade croutons add crunch and make your soup more filling.
• Season them with herbs to match the flavors of your soup.

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How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To achieve the best results when making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and quality cheese make a significant difference in taste.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend more of it to create a creamier texture.
• Mind Your Heat: Keep the heat low when adding dairy to prevent curdling.
• Blend Wisely: For an even creamier soup, blend more than one cup, but leave some chunks for texture.
• Season Gradually: Always taste before adding more salt; it’s easier to add than to fix over-salting!
• Store Properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This hearty soup pairs well with several side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the creamy soup beautifully.
2. Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine and savory dressing provide a nice contrast.
3. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with quinoa or rice and make for a nutritious addition.
4. Veggie Platter: Raw veggies with hummus offer freshness and crunch alongside the warm soup.
5. Baked Potato Wedges: Crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs make a satisfying side.
6. Cheesy Quesadillas: Stuffed with cheese and veggies, they pair wonderfully when dipped into the soup.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Their slightly sweet taste balances out the richness of the soup nicely.
8. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad can add additional carbs without overshadowing the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to keep in mind.

• Neglecting to sauté vegetables properly – Sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery is crucial for flavor. Cook them until soft before adding other ingredients.
• Using high heat when adding milk – High heat can curdle the milk. Always add it on low heat and stir gently until warmed.
• Not blending enough – Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture. Don’t skip this step for a great mouthfeel!
• Overcooking broccoli – If you overcook the broccoli, it can become mushy. Aim for tender but still vibrant green.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments – Taste your soup before serving! Adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavors as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or use cornstarch as a thickener.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding herbs like thyme or parsley, or spices like cayenne pepper for added warmth.

How do I store leftover soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.

Can I customize the protein content?

Absolutely! You can add shredded chicken or turkey for even more protein if desired.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only rich and creamy but also packed with nutrition. It’s perfect as a comforting meal on its own or paired with a salad or bread. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or proteins!