High Protein Broccoli Cheddar

This creamy high protein broccoli cheddar soup is my secret weapon on chilly evenings when I want something comforting but still nutritious. It combines fresh vegetables and protein-packed cottage cheese for a satisfying bowl that feels indulgent without the guilt.

I first made this after trying to boost my kids’ protein intake without adding weird powders. They loved the cheesy flavor and I felt great knowing it had real vegetables.

Ingredients

• Butter: adds richness and helps soften the aromatics choose unsalted for better flavor control
• Yellow onion: brings sweetness when cooked slowly look for firm bulbs without blemishes
• Carrots: add natural sweetness and body pick fresh carrots that are bright and firm
• Celery: adds subtle earthiness and texture buy crisp stalks without brown spots
• Garlic: enhances the overall depth use fresh peeled cloves for best aroma
• All-purpose flour: thickens the soup if gluten free use a suitable flour substitute
• Smoked paprika: gives a mild smoky undertone pick a vibrant, fresh spice for strongest flavor
• Vegetable broth: builds the soup base choose low sodium to manage salt levels
• Broccoli: is the star vegetable buy fresh stalks that are deep green with tight florets
• Milk: adds creaminess full fat or 1% both work depending on richness desired
• Cheddar cheese: brings sharpness and meltiness freshly shredded melts better than pre-shredded
• Low fat cottage cheese: boosts protein and creaminess blend to avoid lumps
• Salt and pepper: season the soup adjust carefully toward the end

Instructions

Build The Flavor Base:

Melt the butter in a large heavy pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot and celery. Cook gently for about ten minutes stirring occasionally. This slow cooking develops the natural sweetness of the vegetables which forms the heart of the soup.

Add Garlic and Toast Spices:

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for one minute to release aroma without burning. Sprinkle in smoked paprika and flour. Stir continuously for one minute to coat the vegetables with flour which will thicken the soup later.

Simmer The Broccoli:

Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add the chopped broccoli and bring the pot to a gentle simmer. Cook for eight to nine minutes until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant. This timing preserves both nutrition and texture.

Add Milk and Cheese:

Lower the heat and pour in the milk. Warm gently without boiling to prevent curdling. Stir in the blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar until melted and fully combined. Keep the heat low to maintain the soup’s smooth texture.

Blend For Creaminess:

Ladle one cup of soup into a blender leaving the lid vent open for steam release. Blend until smooth then return to the pot. Alternatively use an immersion blender to puree part or all of the soup inside the pot. This creates a luscious consistency that still has small broccoli pieces for texture.

Final Seasoning:

Taste the soup and add salt and freshly ground pepper as needed. This step really brings all the flavors together so take your time here.

I love the addition of smoked paprika which adds subtle complexity without overpowering the vegetables. This recipe reminds me of cozy family dinners when everyone gathered with bowls of hot soup and crusty bread on cold nights.

Storage tips

This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid breaking the dairy proteins.

Ingredient swaps

For a dairy free version use unsweetened oat milk and a vegan cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast can add savory flavor in place of cheddar. Swap cottage cheese for silken tofu blended smooth if preferred.

Serving ideas

Ladle soup into bowls topped with a sprinkle of extra cheddar or chopped herbs like chives. Serve with warm crusty bread or a simple green salad to round out the meal.

This soup shines when served warm with crusty bread for a cozy meal.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What vegetables are used in this dish?

Onion, carrot, celery, garlic, and chopped broccoli create the flavorful vegetable base.

→ How is the broccoli cooked for best texture?

Broccoli is simmered in broth for about 8-9 minutes until tender but not mushy.

→ What dairy ingredients enrich the dish?

Shredded cheddar cheese and blended low fat cottage cheese add creaminess and protein.

→ How can I achieve a smooth texture?

Blend a portion or use an immersion blender gently to keep a creamy consistency.

→ What seasonings enhance the flavor?

Smoked paprika, salt, and pepper bring warmth and depth to the flavor profile.

→ Can this be prepared gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour to accommodate dietary needs.