The Creamiest High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Crafting a soul-warming broccoli cheddar soup packed with protein can revolutionize your mealtime comfort.

Hearty ingredients blend into a creamy masterpiece that satisfies deeper hunger levels.

Nutritionists adore this recipe for its balanced macronutrient profile and delightful flavor combinations.

Cheese melts luxuriously through tender broccoli florets, creating unexpected texture in every spoonful.

Green vegetables intertwine with rich dairy, making nutrition feel indulgent and effortless.

Protein-conscious home cooks appreciate how simple ingredients can deliver such remarkable results.

Warm up your kitchen and nourish yourself with this remarkable culinary creation that promises both health and happiness.

High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup to Warm You Up

• Power-Packed Nutrition: Loaded with high-protein ingredients like cottage cheese, protein powder, and cheddar cheese, this soup delivers a serious nutritional punch for fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious eaters.
• Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows simple modifications like adjusting protein levels, swapping dairy alternatives, or adding extra vegetables to match personal dietary preferences and taste.
• Quick Weeknight Wonder: Requires minimal cooking skills and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy individuals seeking a satisfying and nutritious meal without complicated techniques.
• Comfort Food Reinvented: Transforms the classic broccoli cheddar soup into a protein-rich version that feels indulgent while supporting wellness goals, offering a guilt-free alternative to traditional recipes.

Ingredients for Hearty Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Broccoli: A nutrient-dense vegetable that provides texture and green color to the soup.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adds rich, sharp flavor and helps create a creamy consistency.
• Cottage Cheese: Contributes extra protein and helps create a smooth, creamy texture.

• Broth, Almond Milk: Provide the liquid base and help create the soup's desired consistency.

• Butter, Onion, Garlic: Create a foundational aromatic base for the soup's depth of flavor.
• Dijon Mustard, Black Pepper, Salt, Smoked Paprika: Add complexity and enhance the overall taste profile.
• Protein Powder: Optional ingredient that boosts the protein content of the soup.

Step-by-Step Broccoli Cheddar Soup Instructions

Step 1: Kickstart the Flavor Base

Warm up a large pot over medium heat. Drop in the butter and let it melt, then toss in the diced onion.

Dance the onion around for 2-3 minutes until it turns soft and translucent. Sprinkle in the garlic and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds, releasing its aromatic magic.

Step 2: Bring Broccoli to Life

Pour the broth into the pot and coax it to a gentle simmer. Slide in the chopped broccoli and let it swim around for 5-7 minutes.

You’re looking for tender florets that are bright green and full of vitality.

Step 3: Whip Up Creamy Goodness

Welcome the almond milk and blended cottage cheese to the party.

Grab an immersion blender and work your magic, transforming the soup into a dreamy, creamy delight. Leave some broccoli chunks for a playful texture that keeps things interesting.

Step 4: Cheese Melting Extravaganza

Turn the heat down low and prepare for cheesy bliss. Gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheddar, letting it melt into silky ribbons.

• Dijon mustard
• Black pepper
• Salt
• Smoked paprika

Blend until the soup becomes a smooth, golden wonder.

Step 5: Protein Power-Up

If you’re looking to amp up the protein, now’s your moment.

Mix the unflavored protein powder with a splash of warm broth until it dissolves completely. Gently stir this secret weapon into the soup.

Step 6: Final Flavor Fusion

Let the soup simmer for another 2-3 minutes, giving the flavors a chance to mingle and get to know each other. Taste and tweak the seasonings if your palate desires.

Step 7: Serve with Style

Ladle the soup into waiting bowls. Crown your creation with a sprinkle of extra cheese or a dusting of smoked paprika.

Your high-protein masterpiece is ready to devour!

Tips to Boost Protein and Flavor

• Use an immersion blender for controlled texture, keeping some broccoli chunks for a hearty mouthfeel while creating a creamy base.
• Dissolve protein powder completely in warm broth before adding to prevent clumping and ensure smooth integration.
• Add cheddar gradually and stir constantly to achieve a silky, uniform consistency without separation.
• Replace regular broth with low-sodium version and skip protein powder for a keto-friendly alternative that maintains rich flavor.
• Substitute dairy cheese with nutritional yeast and use plant-based milk for a completely vegan version that still delivers robust taste.

Variations to Change Up Your Soup

• Protein Power Soup: Add grilled chicken strips or diced turkey breast for an extra protein punch, making it a complete meal in one bowl.
• Vegetarian Protein Boost: Replace chicken with cubed tofu or tempeh, enhancing protein content while keeping the soup meat-free.
• Mediterranean Style: Incorporate quinoa and chickpeas, adding Mediterranean flavors and increasing overall protein content with plant-based ingredients.
• Spicy Kick Version: Blend in roasted jalapeños and add a dash of cayenne pepper for those who love heat, transforming the soup into a zesty protein-rich experience.

Pairing Ideas for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Pair with Crusty Sourdough Bread: Break off chunks of tangy, rustic sourdough to dip into the creamy soup, enhancing the cheesy flavors and adding a delightful textural contrast.
• Complement with Crisp Chardonnay: Select a cool, lightly oaked Chardonnay that balances the soup's richness with its subtle buttery notes and refreshing acidity.
• Match with Herb-Roasted Chicken Salad: Serve a light, protein-packed chicken salad with fresh herbs alongside the soup, creating a balanced and satisfying meal that echoes the soup's protein-forward profile.
• Enhance with Bacon Crumbles: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top of the soup for an extra layer of smoky flavor and crunchy texture that elevates the entire dish.

Proper Storage for Leftover Soup

Transfer leftover soup to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.

Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving 1-inch space for expansion. Freeze for 2-3 months, ensuring tight seal to prevent freezer burn.

Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator. Warm slowly in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation. Add a splash of broth or milk to restore creamy consistency.

Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals. Stir between intervals to distribute heat evenly and prevent hot spots.

FAQs

• Why use cottage cheese in this soup?

Cottage cheese adds creaminess and boosts protein content without adding heavy cream, making the soup healthier and more nutritious.

• Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, substitute dairy cheese with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives, and use plant-based milk and broth.

• Is this soup good for weight loss?

The high protein content from broccoli, cottage cheese, and optional protein powder helps increase satiety and supports muscle maintenance during weight loss.

• How can I add more protein to this soup?

Add cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu during the final simmering stage to increase protein content even further.

High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

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4.7 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Comforting high-protein broccoli cheddar soup delivers creamy goodness packed with nutrients and flavor. Rich ingredients combine in a quick, satisfying bowl that nourishes and delights you with every spoonful.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Vegetables:

• 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Protein and Dairy:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese (blended until smooth)
• 1 scoop unflavored protein powder

Liquid and Seasonings:

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or skim milk)
• 1 tablespoon butter (or olive oil)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

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Instructions

1. Warm a spacious cooking vessel over medium-low temperature and melt butter, gently sautéing diced onions until translucent and fragrant, approximately 3 minutes. Introduce minced garlic and briefly toast for 45 seconds.
2. Pour vegetable broth into the pot, elevating heat to trigger a gentle simmer. Introduce chopped broccoli florets and allow them to tenderize for 6 minutes, ensuring they remain vibrant and crisp.
3. Incorporate almond milk and blended cottage cheese, creating a luxurious base. Utilize an immersion blender to transform the mixture, maintaining a rustic texture with occasional vegetable chunks.
4. Reduce heat and gradually fold shredded cheddar cheese into the liquid. Complement with Dijon mustard, cracked black pepper, kosher salt, and smoky paprika, stirring until cheese melts smoothly.
5. Dissolve unflavored protein powder in warm broth, then seamlessly integrate into the soup, enhancing nutritional profile and depth of flavor.
6. Allow soup to gently simmer for an additional 2 minutes, periodically stirring to prevent scorching and ensure consistent temperature and texture.
7. Transfer soup into serving bowls, garnishing with extra cheese shreds or a delicate sprinkle of smoked paprika for visual appeal and enhanced taste experience.

Notes

• Customize Protein Boost by whisking protein powder with warm broth to prevent clumping and ensure smooth integration into the soup.
• Maintain Texture Balance by partially blending the soup, keeping some broccoli chunks for a delightful mouthfeel and visual appeal.
• Select Low-Fat Cheese Options like reduced-fat cheddar to make the soup lighter without compromising rich flavor profile.
• Accommodate Dietary Needs by substituting dairy milk with plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk for lactose-sensitive individuals.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 188 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 470 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 7 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg