High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delicious blend of comfort and nutrition, perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, this soup provides 20 grams of protein per serving, making it not only satisfying but also a healthy choice. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or packing it for lunch, this recipe is sure to delight every palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious Comfort Food – Packed with protein and vitamins, this soup is a guilt-free indulgence.
• Easy to Prepare – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this soup in no time.
• Versatile Ingredient Options – Feel free to substitute veggies or cheeses based on your preferences or dietary needs.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
• Kid-Friendly Flavor – The cheesy goodness makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in preparing your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Blender (or immersion blender)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot – This is essential for cooking all the ingredients together evenly and allowing flavors to meld.
• Blender – A good blender helps achieve the creamy texture that makes this soup irresistible. An immersion blender is also convenient if you prefer blending directly in the pot.

Ingredients

This rich and creamy broccoli cheddar soup is secretly healthy, with 20 grams of protein per serving! It’s the perfect comfort food recipe!

Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon 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 flour)
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 3 cups vegetable broth (not-chicken style recommended)
– 4 cups chopped broccoli
– 2 cups 1% milk
– 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
– 1 cup low fat cottage cheese, blended
– Salt & pepper to taste

How to Make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Melt Butter

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 10 minutes while stirring frequently until they soften.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking over medium heat for one minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour and Spices

Add smoked paprika and flour. Cook for one minute while stirring until the vegetables are well-coated with flour.

Step 5: Pour in Broth and Broccoli

Add vegetable broth and chopped broccoli to the pot. Bring everything to a simmer.

Step 6: Simmer Broccoli

Let the broccoli simmer for about 8 to 9 minutes until softened.

Step 7: Add Milk

Pour in the milk. Cook over low heat just until warmed through; avoid boiling.

Step 8: Mix in Cheeses

Stir in blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until melted thoroughly. Keep heat low to prevent curdling.

Step 9: Blend Soup

Transfer one cup of soup into a blender. Blend carefully while allowing steam to escape through the vent. Return blended soup back to the pot. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot for a smoother texture.

Step 10: Season

Finally, taste your soup and add salt as needed before serving warm.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serving high protein broccoli cheddar soup is a delightful experience. This creamy concoction not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a nutritious boost. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty Baguette: The perfect companion for dipping into the rich, cheesy soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic combination that adds extra comfort to your meal.

Garnish Ideas

• Chopped Chives: Sprinkle fresh chives on top for a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
• Shredded Cheese: Add more cheddar cheese on top right before serving for an extra cheesy experience.

Add-Ons

• Cooked Bacon Bits: For a smoky crunch, sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the soup.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop adds creaminess and tang that complements the flavors nicely.

Salad Pairing

• Caesar Salad: The crunchy romaine and zesty dressing make a refreshing contrast.
• Mixed Green Salad: Lightly dressed greens provide balance and additional nutrients.

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How to Perfect High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To achieve the best version of high protein broccoli cheddar soup, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli offers better flavor and texture compared to frozen options.
• Blend Well: Blending part of the soup creates a creamy consistency without needing too much cream.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor.
• Low Heat for Cheese Addition: Add cheese over low heat to prevent curdling and ensure smooth melting.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Complementing your high protein broccoli cheddar soup with side dishes enhances the dining experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Bread: Deliciously buttery and garlicky, perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and nutrition to your meal.
3. Potato Wedges: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they provide a satisfying crunch.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of fruits balances the richness of the soup with natural sweetness.
5. Quinoa Salad: Nutritious quinoa mixed with vegetables makes for a hearty side dish.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa offer a filling option alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the broccoli: This can lead to mushy vegetables. Cook until just tender, about 8-9 minutes, for the best texture.
• Skipping the blending step: Blending adds creaminess without heavy cream. Don’t skip this for a smooth soup that’s still hearty.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese can affect flavor and meltability. Use good quality cheddar for better taste and texture.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can make your soup bland. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving.
• Cooking at too high a temperature: High heat can curdle the milk. Keep the heat low when adding dairy ingredients.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Simply add it directly into the soup without thawing.

Is this soup gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.

How can I add more protein?

To boost protein, consider adding cooked chicken or beans.

What if I don’t have cheddar cheese?

Feel free to substitute with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding extra veggies or proteins of your choice. Give it a try and enjoy a healthy yet delicious meal!