High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
A creamy, comforting high-protein broccoli cheddar soup made with wholesome vegetables, low-fat dairy, and a touch of smoked paprika. Perfect for a nutritious and hearty meal that blends traditional flavors with a healthy twist.
- Author: liam
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Vegetables
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chopped broccoli
Dairy & Cheese
- 1 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups 1% milk
- 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
- 1 cup low fat cottage cheese, blended
Others
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3 cups vegetable broth (not-chicken style)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Melt butter: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat to prepare the base for the soup.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and fragrant.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook over medium heat for one minute to release its aroma.
- Add smoked paprika and flour: Sprinkle the smoked paprika and flour over the vegetables and cook for one minute, stirring constantly until all the vegetables are coated well with the flour.
- Add broth and broccoli: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the chopped broccoli. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer broccoli: Let the broccoli simmer for 8 to 9 minutes until it becomes tender.
- Add milk and warm soup: Stir in the 1% milk and cook over low heat until the soup is warmed through, being careful not to boil.
- Add cheeses: Stir in the blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Keep heat low to prevent curdling of the milk.
- Blend soup: Transfer one cup of soup to a blender, venting to release steam, and blend until smooth. Return blended portion to the pot. Alternatively, use an immersion blender to gently blend some of the soup for a creamy texture while retaining some chunkiness.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, stirring well to combine. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Notes
- Start with 3 cups of broth for a thicker soup; you can always add more broth later to thin it out.
- Use low-fat cottage cheese brands with mild flavor such as Good Culture for best taste.
- If you dislike cottage cheese, it is well blended and not strongly noticeable; however, you may substitute with a similar protein-rich dairy option if desired.
- Try adding white beans for extra protein and creaminess, as suggested by readers.
- This soup freezes well; cool completely before freezing in airtight containers.
Keywords: broccoli cheddar soup, high protein soup, healthy soup, vegetarian soup, gluten free, comfort food