Rich and Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This rich and creamy broccoli cheddar soup is secretly healthy, boasting 20 grams of protein per serving. It’s the perfect comfort food, filled with nutritious ingredients that make it both satisfying and nourishing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High in Protein: The addition of cottage cheese provides a protein boost without compromising on creaminess.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with fresh vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and celery, this soup offers a wholesome meal option.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar and smoked paprika delivers a rich, savory taste that’s perfect for cozy meals.

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
• 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

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrot, and celery; cook for 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the smoked paprika and flour; cook for 1 minute, ensuring the vegetables are well-coated.
5. Pour in the broth and add the chopped broccoli; bring to a simmer.
6. Simmer for 8-9 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
7. Reduce heat to low, add the milk, and warm the soup gently.
8. Incorporate the blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar; stir until melted. Avoid high heat to prevent curdling.
9. Transfer one cup of soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot. Alternatively, use an immersion blender to achieve desired consistency.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: Approximately 8 cups
• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
• Vegan Option: Substitute dairy products with plant-based alternatives and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Additional Vegetables: Incorporate cauliflower or spinach for extra nutrients and variety.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave, stirring frequently to ensure even heating. Note: It’s not recommended to freeze this soup, as dairy-based soups may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour to thicken the soup.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Add it directly to the pot and adjust the cooking time as needed until the broccoli is tender.

What type of cheddar cheese is best?

Extra sharp cheddar provides a robust flavor. Shredding a block of cheddar yourself is recommended for a smoother consistency.

Is there a substitute for cottage cheese?

Greek yogurt or silken tofu can be used as alternatives to cottage cheese to maintain creaminess and protein content.

How can I make the soup thicker?

For a thicker consistency, reduce the amount of broth slightly or add an extra tablespoon of flour during preparation.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently to avoid curdling the dairy components.

What can I serve with this soup?

Pair the soup with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or a sandwich for a complete meal.

How do I prevent the milk from curdling?

Maintain low heat after adding the milk and avoid bringing the soup to a rapid boil to prevent curdling.

Can I add meat to this soup?

For a non-vegetarian version, cooked chicken or bacon can be added for additional flavor and protein.

How do I blend the soup safely?

If using a countertop blender, blend in batches and allow steam to escape to prevent pressure buildup. An immersion blender can also be used directly in the pot for convenience.

Conclusion

This high-protein broccoli cheddar soup offers a delightful combination of creamy texture and savory flavor, making it a satisfying choice for those seeking comfort food with a healthy twist. Its rich protein content and wholesome ingredients make it a nourishing option for any meal.

Rich and Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 8 cups (1 cup per serving)
• Category: Soup
• Method: Soup
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This rich and creamy broccoli cheddar soup is a secretly healthy comfort food with 20 grams of protein per serving. Made with fresh vegetables, sharp cheddar, and blended cottage cheese, it’s both nourishing and satisfying. Ready in just 35 minutes, this high-protein soup is perfect for cozy meals or meal prep.

 

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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
• 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

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Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Sauté onion, carrot, and celery for 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Sprinkle smoked paprika and flour over the vegetables; stir well and cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and add chopped broccoli. Bring to a simmer and cook for 8-9 minutes until broccoli is tender.
6. Lower the heat, stir in milk, and warm gently without boiling.
7. Add blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar; stir until fully melted.
8. Blend 1 cup of soup until smooth (or use an immersion blender for a creamier texture). Return to the pot and stir.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

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Notes

• Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Substitute cottage cheese with Greek yogurt or silken tofu for a dairy-free alternative.
• For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheating gently to avoid curdling. Freezing is not recommended.