Table of Contents
There’s something deeply comforting about wrapping your hands around a warm bowl of broccoli cheddar soup. But when you’re craving that creamy, cheesy goodness and want to stay on track with your health goals, this high-protein broccoli cheddar soup is the perfect balance. It’s rich and satisfying, yet surprisingly light giving you all the indulgence without the guilt.
This recipe blends the nostalgic flavor of traditional broccoli cheddar soup with a wholesome boost of protein from low-fat cottage cheese and milk. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, trying to increase your protein intake, or simply seeking a cozy dish that fuels your body, this soup can be your go-to comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
You’ll love this soup not just for its flavor, but for its nutritional value and versatility. Here’s what makes it special:
- High in protein without risking the rich, creamy taste you love.
- Light yet filling, ideal for lunch, dinner, or post-workout meals.
- Vegetarian-friendly and easily adaptable for gluten-free diets.
- Meal-prep approved reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup You’ll Crave All Week
- Total Time: 35 min
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and nourishing high-protein broccoli cheddar soup made with cottage cheese, milk, and fresh vegetables. Perfect for cozy, healthy meals.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp 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)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 4 cups chopped broccoli
- 2 cups 1% milk
- 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese, blended
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, carrot, and celery; cook for 10 minutes, stirring often.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in smoked paprika and flour until vegetables are coated.
5. Add broth and broccoli; bring to a simmer.
6. Simmer 8–9 minutes until broccoli softens.
7. Stir in milk, then add blended cottage cheese and cheddar cheese.
8. Mix until melted and smooth without overheating.
9. Blend a cup of soup or use an immersion blender for texture.
10. Season with salt and pepper, serve warm.
Notes
For extra protein, add a scoop of protein powder. Keep stored in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze for a later meal.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 25 min
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients for High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Main Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Butter | 1 tbsp | For sautéing vegetables |
| Yellow onion | 1 large, diced | Provides sweetness and depth |
| Carrots | 2 large, peeled and diced | Adds color and subtle sweetness |
| Celery | 1 stalk, diced | For aromatic balance |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Essential flavor base |
| All-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour) | 1/4 cup | Thickening agent |
| Smoked paprika | 1/2 tsp | Adds warmth and depth |
| Vegetable broth | 3 cups | Choose “no-chicken” style for flavor |
| Broccoli florets | 4 cups, chopped | Fresh or frozen both work |
| 1% milk | 2 cups | For creaminess |
| Cheddar cheese | 4 oz (1 cup), shredded | Sharp cheddar recommended |
| Low-fat cottage cheese | 1 cup, blended | Boosts protein and creaminess |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Adjust to your preference |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables soften and become aromatic.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in the smoked paprika and flour, coating the vegetables evenly to build your roux base.
Step 3: Add Broth and Broccoli
Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add chopped broccoli and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 8–9 minutes, ensuring the broccoli becomes tender.
Step 4: Blend and Add Dairy
Reduce heat to low. Stir in milk and cook gently until the soup is warm. Add blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar, stirring until melted and creamy. Avoid high heat to prevent curdling.
Step 5: Blend (Optional)
For a silky texture, blend one cup of soup and stir it back into the pot, or use an immersion blender for partial processing leaving some broccoli chunks for texture.
Step 6: Adjust and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with a sprinkle of shredded cheese or paprika if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread or grain crackers.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Soup Every Time
- Don’t overheat the milk keep your stove on low once dairy is added to prevent splitting.
- Boost protein even more by adding a scoop of unflavored whey protein before serving.
- Want it creamier? Use a potato masher or immersion blender for a smoother consistency.
- Make it vegan-friendly by substituting plant-based butter, milk, and cheese alternatives.
- Storage tip: Keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freezes beautifully for up to a month.
Nutrition Highlights (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~240 kcal |
| Protein | ~20 g |
| Fat | ~9 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~18 g |
| Fiber | ~3 g |
| Sodium | ~390 mg |
FAQs About High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
How can I make this soup even higher in protein?
You can stir in a scoop of flavorless protein powder or blend additional cottage cheese for a thicker, more protein-rich version.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works perfectly. You may need to simmer it a minute longer to ensure it’s tender.
Can this soup be made gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use a gluten-free flour blend for thickening and ensure your broth and cheese are gluten-free verified.
Will the cottage cheese make the soup gritty?
Not at all when blended, cottage cheese melts down into a smooth, creamy texture that mimics heavy cream.
Conclusion
This high-protein broccoli cheddar soup proves that healthy comfort food can be both indulgent and nourishing. Every spoonful delivers rich, cheesy flavor and satisfying creaminess without compromising on your wellness goals. Whether you’re feeding your family or prepping healthy lunches for the week, this soup fits beautifully into a balanced lifestyle.
So next time you crave comfort with a purpose, grab your pot, a few fresh veggies, and a handful of cheddar your body and taste buds will thank you.