High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful blend of creamy textures and rich flavors, perfect for cozy dinners or a quick lunch. With 20 grams of protein per serving, it serves as a satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on health. This soup is not only comforting but also versatile enough to be enjoyed on chilly days or served at gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Satisfying: Packed with protein, this soup keeps you full and nourished.
• Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the veggies or cheese types based on your preferences.
• Comfort Food with a Twist: Enjoy the classic flavor of broccoli cheddar soup while boosting your protein intake.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it appealing to even the pickiest eaters.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious soup, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Blender or immersion blender
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly without spilling over.
• Blender or immersion blender: Helps achieve that creamy consistency by blending the soup perfectly.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot, ensuring even cooking.

Ingredients

To create this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, gather the following ingredients:

Base Ingredients

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

Flavor Enhancers

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

Main Components

• 3 cups vegetable broth (I like the not-chicken style)
• 4 cups chopped broccoli

Creamy Additions

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

Seasoning

• Salt & pepper to taste

How to Make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Follow these simple steps to whip up your delicious High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables

Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
1. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery.
2. Cook for about 10 minutes while stirring frequently until softened.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Next, add minced garlic to the pot.
1. Continue to cook for one minute until fragrant.
2. Stir in smoked paprika and flour; cook for another minute until vegetables are coated with flour.

Step 3: Incorporate Broth and Broccoli

Now it’s time to add depth to your soup!
1. Pour in vegetable broth and add chopped broccoli.
2. Bring everything to a simmer and let it cook for about 8-9 minutes until broccoli is tender.

Step 4: Create Creaminess

Lower the heat before adding milk to warm through slowly.
1. Mix in blended cottage cheese along with shredded cheddar cheese.
2. Stir until all cheeses are melted; avoid high heat to prevent curdling.

Step 5: Blend for Texture

For that creamy finish:
1. Transfer one cup of soup into a blender; blend carefully while allowing steam to escape through the vent.
2. Return blended soup back into the pot or use an immersion blender directly in the pot for convenience.

Final Step: Season Your Soup

Taste your creation!
1. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before serving warm.

Now you have a comforting bowl of High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup ready to enjoy!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can elevate the meal experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative serving suggestions to complement this delicious soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Enjoy your soup with a slice of crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping and soaking up all the cheesy goodness.

Add a Side Salad

• A fresh side salad adds crunch and balances the creamy texture of the soup. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.

Top with Extra Cheese

• Sprinkle some additional shredded cheddar cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish. This melts beautifully into the warm soup.

Include Crunchy Toppings

• Consider adding toppings like toasted croutons or roasted chickpeas for some added crunch and flavor contrast.

Serve in a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve your soup in a bread bowl. This keeps the soup warm and gives you something to munch on once it’s empty!

How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Perfecting your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is easy with just a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and quality cheese will significantly improve the flavor of your soup.
• Blend Wisely: For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup before serving, but be careful not to over-blend as you still want some chunky bits.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more vegetable broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
• Season Generously: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper toward the end of cooking for optimal flavor.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to try different spices like cayenne pepper or nutmeg to give your soup a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Pairing side dishes with your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Perfectly crispy garlic bread complements the creamy soup while adding savory flavors.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings in refreshing greens and crunchy croutons that contrast nicely with the richness of the soup.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice make for a hearty side that pairs well.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add nutrition and depth alongside your comforting soup.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad topped with lemon vinaigrette offers a protein-packed side that won’t overwhelm you.
6. Pita Chips: Crispy pita chips provide a delightful crunch while being easy to dip into the creamy goodness of your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be simple, but a few mistakes can ruin its creamy texture and flavor. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the vegetables first develops their flavors. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall taste of your soup.

• Not using enough broth: Using too little broth can lead to a thick and paste-like soup. Ensure you measure correctly to maintain that perfect creamy consistency.

• Adding cheese too quickly: If you add cheese at high heat, it can become stringy or clump together. Stir in the cheese over low heat and allow it to melt slowly for a smooth finish.

• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Always taste your soup before serving. You may need to adjust salt and pepper levels according to your preference.

• Overcooking the broccoli: Cook the broccoli just until tender. Overcooking can make it mushy and dull the vibrant color of your soup.

• Not blending enough: For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup after cooking. This creates that delightful balance between chunky and smooth.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best flavor.

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 short intervals, stirring often until hot.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious soup:

Can I use frozen broccoli in High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Yes! Frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just add it directly to the pot without thawing.

How can I make this soup dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute cheddar cheese with a plant-based alternative and use almond or coconut milk instead of regular milk.

What type of cheese is best for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

While cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack for different flavors!

How can I customize my High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

You can add other vegetables like cauliflower or carrots for variety. Spices like nutmeg or cayenne also add an interesting twist!

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only rich and creamy but also packed with protein, making it a nutritious comfort food option. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its wholesome goodness!