Print

High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

4.6 from 134 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

  1. Melt butter: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat to prepare the base for the soup.
  2. Sauté vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and fragrant.
  3. Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook over medium heat for one minute to release its aroma.
  4. 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.
  5. Add broth and broccoli: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the chopped broccoli. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  6. Simmer broccoli: Let the broccoli simmer for 8 to 9 minutes until it becomes tender.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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