High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

If you want a cozy, satisfying dinner that’s big on both flavor and nutrition, you have to try HIGH PROTEIN BROCCOLI CHEDDAR SOUP. This creamy broccoli cheddar soup is loaded with sharp cheddar cheese and blended cottage cheese for that familiar velvety texture, but packs a major protein punch without feeling heavy. With every bite, you’ll taste tender broccoli, sweet carrots, golden onions, and hints of smoky paprika, making it a perfect healthy comfort meal you’ll crave on chilly nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this HIGH PROTEIN BROCCOLI CHEDDAR SOUP is intentionally chosen to bring richness, creaminess, and bright veggie flavor to your bowl. Nothing fancy or fussy—just wholesome kitchen staples that magically come together for maximum comfort.

• Butter: Just a bit brings an irresistible richness and helps sweat the veggies to sweet perfection.
• Yellow Onion: Diced onion forms the savory backbone and adds subtle sweetness after a long slow cook.
• Carrots: For mellow sweetness, bright color, and even more veggie goodness.
• Celery: That classic soup essential for its earthy, aromatic undertone and gentle crunch.
• Garlic: Two cloves, minced, give a robust aroma that infuses every spoonful.
• All-purpose Flour (or GF Flour): Your thickening agent, helping the soup feel silky without extra cream or heaviness.
• Smoked Paprika: For a subtle smoky depth—add more if you love that smokiness!
• Vegetable Broth (“not chicken” style recommended): Gives a comforting base and lets the veggie flavors shine.
• Chopped Broccoli: The star of the show, bringing bright green color, texture, and lots of nutrients.
• 1% Milk: Lighter than cream, but still makes things creamy and smooth.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Bold, tangy cheddar gives the soup its classic flavor and pull-apart cheesiness.
• Low-Fat Cottage Cheese, Blended: This secret ingredient boosts protein and creaminess, with no extra grease!
• Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget to season to taste, letting all those flavors pop.

How to Make HIGH PROTEIN BROCCOLI CHEDDAR SOUP

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by melting the butter in a big pot over medium heat. Add in the diced onion, carrots, and celery with a pinch of salt, stirring often. Cook these veggies for about 10 minutes, until everything is soft and the kitchen smells amazing. These veggies are the flavor base of your HIGH PROTEIN BROCCOLI CHEDDAR SOUP, so let them gently sweat until super fragrant and sweet.

Step 2: Add the Garlic and Spices

Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for just a minute — you want it softened and just turning golden, not browned. Then sprinkle over the smoked paprika and the flour, stirring well. The flour will start to coat the vegetables and absorb any butter, setting you up for a perfectly thick soup later.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth and Broccoli

Pour in the vegetable broth, scraping up any brown bits at the bottom of the pot. Add the chopped broccoli, then bring everything just to a simmer. Let it bubble away for 8 to 9 minutes, until the broccoli is fork-tender but still vivid green. This is when the soup really starts to take on its hearty, comforting personality.

Step 4: Stir in Milk and Cheeses for Creaminess

Lower the heat and pour in the 1% milk. Give everything a gentle stir, then add the blended low-fat cottage cheese and the shredded cheddar. Stir until the cheese is just melted and velvety — don’t crank up the heat here, as overheating can cause the cheese to split. Watch as HIGH PROTEIN BROCCOLI CHEDDAR SOUP transforms into a creamy dream!

Step 5: Blend for the Perfect Texture

Scoop about 1 cup of soup (heavy on the veggies) into a blender. Vent the lid for steam and pulse until smooth, then stir it back in. Or, use an immersion blender right in the pot for a silky, restaurant-style texture while leaving a few chunks for bite. Finally, season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

How to Serve HIGH PROTEIN BROCCOLI CHEDDAR SOUP

Garnishes

The final flourish makes all the difference! Sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top for gooey, melty ribbons, add a scatter of fresh herbs like chives or parsley, or swirl in a spoonful of yogurt or cottage cheese for extra creaminess. A crack of black pepper or a dusting of smoked paprika also looks gorgeous and doubles down on the flavor.

Side Dishes

This soup is a satisfying meal on its own, but it also welcomes company. Serve HIGH PROTEIN BROCCOLI CHEDDAR SOUP with crusty multigrain bread, whole wheat rolls, or crisp toast soldiers for dunking. For a protein boost and even more color, add a side of roasted chickpeas or a simple leafy green salad tossed with vinaigrette.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to get playful, serve your soup in bread bowls, tiny ramekins for starters, or pour it over cooked grains for a hearty brothy dinner bowl. Top with crispy roasted broccoli florets or swirl in some hot sauce for a grown-up kick. HIGH PROTEIN BROCCOLI CHEDDAR SOUP is just begging to be customized for cozy gatherings or meal-prep lunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making the leftovers even more delectable. Give it a good stir before reheating, as some separation is totally normal.

Freezing

This soup freezes surprisingly well, thanks to the stabilizing effect of the blended cottage cheese. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little space at the top. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often, until just warm and steamy. Avoid boiling, which can make the cheese turn grainy. If microwaving, zap in short bursts and stir well between intervals. Add a splash of milk if you need to loosen the texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for HIGH PROTEIN BROCCOLI CHEDDAR SOUP?

Absolutely! Just add the frozen broccoli straight into the pot—no need to thaw first. The cook time may need a minute or two longer, but the flavor stays vibrant and delicious.

What’s the best type of cheddar for this soup?

Sharp cheddar delivers the most robust flavor, but you can use mild, medium, or even a mix. If you want a deeper orange color and more bite, sharp or extra sharp is the way to go.

Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free all-purpose blend. Everything else in this HIGH PROTEIN BROCCOLI CHEDDAR SOUP recipe is naturally gluten-free.

How can I make the soup even higher in protein?

For an extra protein boost, stir in a scoop of unflavored whey or plant-based protein powder once the soup is blended and smooth, or add cooked white beans during the simmering step. You can also top with roasted chickpeas for crunch and staying power.

Can I meal-prep this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup is a meal-prepper’s dream! Prepare it fully, cool, and store in single-serve containers. It reheats beautifully for grab-and-go lunches or fast weeknight dinners, and the flavors only get better after they mingle for a day or two.

Final Thoughts

Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to the ultimate cozy bowl by whipping up this HIGH PROTEIN BROCCOLI CHEDDAR SOUP. Once you dig into that creamy, cheesy goodness packed with veggies and satisfying protein, you’ll see why this dish is a go-to favorite for busy weeks and lazy weekends alike. Don’t wait to try it—you might just discover your new comfort food staple!

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