Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the aroma of sautéed onions and garlic enveloped my kitchen, I felt an overwhelming sense of comfort wash over me. Today, we’re diving into a soul-soothing bowl of Creamy High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, a dish that’s both rich in flavor and packed with nutrients. This delightful soup masterfully combines the sharp, tangy notes of cheddar with the earthy goodness of broccoli, all while delivering a satisfying protein boost thanks to cottage cheese and navy beans. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a wholesome meal prep option, it’s a creamy delight that won’t derail your health goals. Plus, with its vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free adaptabilities, it’s a versatile recipe that can cater to various dietary needs. Why settle for takeout when you can whip up this restorative soup in the comfort of your home? Ready to get cooking and discover this creamy delight? Why Choose Broccoli Cheddar Soup? Flavorful Comfort: This Creamy High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not just a meal but a warm hug in a bowl, ensuring your taste buds are delighted. High Protein Boost: Packed with cottage cheese and navy beans, it offers a healthy protein punch that fuels your day without sacrificing taste. Quick & Easy Preparation: In just one pot, you can create a delicious, creamy soup, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping sessions without fuss. Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with your favorite cheeses or legumes—like trying chickpeas instead of navy beans for a unique twist! Meal Time Hero: Serve it alongside a crispy salad or a slice of crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal that everyone will rave about. Health-Conscious Choice: With gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly adaptations, this soup supports varied dietary preferences while keeping flavor at the forefront. For more wholesome broccoli dishes, check out Chicken Broccoli Savory or Broccoli Pasta Salad. Broccoli Cheddar Soup Ingredients For the Soup Base Butter – Adds richness and flavor; can substitute with olive oil for a lighter option. Yellow Onion – Provides aromatic base flavor; substitute with shallots for a milder taste. Carrot – Contributes sweetness and texture; can replace with sweet potato if desired. Celery – Adds freshness and crunch; omit if not available. Garlic – Enhances flavor with a pungent aroma; optional, but recommended for depth. For Protein and Texture Navy Beans (1 can) – Increases protein and fiber; can substitute chickpeas for a different texture. Chicken Broth (4 cups) – Provides savory liquid base; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Broccoli (1.5 lbs) – Main ingredient; offers nutritional value; frozen broccoli can be used directly. For Creaminess and Flavor Cottage Cheese (1 cup) – Acts as a creamy base, providing protein; use full-fat for best texture, or Greek yogurt as a substitute. Cheddar Cheese (1.5 cups shredded) – Provides richness; sharp cheddar is ideal for flavor, or consider Gouda for a unique twist. For Seasoning Paprika – Adds color and gentle spice; can substitute with cayenne for more heat. Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust to taste. Black Pepper – Offers subtle heat; freshly ground is best. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Step 1: Sauté Vegetables Begin by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large stockpot over medium heat. Once the butter is foamy, add 1 chopped yellow onion, 1 diced carrot, and 2 chopped celery stalks. Cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and aromatic. Next, toss in 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant. Step 2: Add Beans & Broccoli After the vegetables are beautifully softened, stir in 1 can of drained navy beans, 4 cups of your choice of chicken or vegetable broth, and 1.5 pounds of chopped broccoli. Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste. Increase the heat slightly to bring the soup to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for 10 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender. Step 3: Blend with Cottage Cheese Once the broccoli has softened, carefully remove 1.5 cups of the soup from the pot and let it cool for about 10 minutes in a bowl. Next, add this portion to a blender along with 1 cup of cottage cheese. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, ensuring a luscious texture that will enhance your Creamy High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Step 4: Return & Melt Pour the blended mixture back into the stockpot with the remaining soup. Lower the heat to medium-low, and gradually stir in 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Carefully mix until the cheese has fully melted and the soup is harmoniously combined, creating a rich and cheesy flavor that fills your kitchen with warmth. Step 5: Serve Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with additional shredded cheddar, a dash of cracked black pepper, or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color. Serve your delightful Creamy High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup warm, alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad for a wholesome meal everyone will savor. Storage Tips for Broccoli Cheddar Soup Fridge: Store your Creamy High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Gently reheat on low heat to maintain its creamy texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: When reheating, do it gradually on low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the soup smooth and creamy. Avoid boiling to prevent separation. What to Serve with Creamy High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup As the comforting aroma of cheese and broccoli dances through your kitchen, imagine the perfect dishes to accompany this nourishing bowl of goodness. Crusty Bread: The robust texture of crusty bread is perfect for dipping in the creamy soup, soaking in every flavorful sip. Side Salad: A bright, crisp side salad adds freshness and balance, with vibrant greens that contrast beautifully with the creamy richness of the soup. Garlic Bread Sticks: These buttery, savory delights complement the soup’s flavors while adding a satisfying crunch, perfect for a cozy meal. Protein-Stuffed Wraps: Fill a wrap with grilled vegetables or sliced chicken for a hearty addition that matches the high-protein theme of the soup. Roasted Vegetables: The caramelization of roasted veggies like carrots and bell peppers will add earthy flavors, enhancing the comforting soup experience. Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing beverage like lightly sparkling water infused with lemon brightens the palate and enhances the flavor experience. Each of these pairings brings its own unique texture and flavor to ensure your meal is not just complete but absolutely delightful! Make Ahead Options These Creamy High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup ingredients are fantastic for meal prep! You can chop the vegetables (onion, carrot, and celery) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can prepare the soup base—sautéing the veggies, adding beans, broth, and broccoli— up to 24 hours in advance. Cool it completely before refrigerating to prevent sogginess. When ready to serve, simply reheat the soup on low heat, blend in the cottage cheese, and stir in the cheddar until melted. This way, you’ll have a homemade meal with minimal effort, all while deliciously preserving the creamy texture! Expert Tips for Broccoli Cheddar Soup Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh broccoli and garlic for the best flavor. Frozen broccoli works too, but fresh gives a brighter taste. Cool Before Blending: Allow the soup to cool slightly before blending with the cottage cheese to prevent curdling and ensure a silky texture in your broccoli cheddar soup. Blend Smoothly: Make sure to blend thoroughly, especially with the cottage cheese, for a creamy consistency. An immersion blender can make this easier! Gradual Cheese Addition: Stir in shredded cheddar slowly while on low heat to avoid clumping and maintain a beautifully smooth flavor throughout the soup. Customize Wisely: Feel free to substitute ingredients, but be cautious with seasonings. Adjust salt and spices according to your taste preferences. Reheat Gently: When reheating leftovers, do so on low heat to retain the creamy consistency of the soup and prevent separation. Broccoli Cheddar Soup Variations Feel like giving your Creamy High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup a personal touch? Let’s explore some delightful tweaks that will elevate your experience! Beans Variety: Substitute navy beans with black beans or chickpeas for a twist. The different legume provides not only a unique flavor but also an inviting texture. Cheese Swap: Consider using Gouda or Monterey Jack instead of cheddar. These alternatives will infuse your soup with a lovely smokiness or creaminess, respectively, creating a new flavor profile. Vegetable Boost: Add extra greens like kale or spinach to enhance the nutritional value. They wilt beautifully into the soup, adding vibrant color and an earthy taste. It’s a subtle twist that introduces even more goodness into every spoonful. Heat It Up: For those who love a kick, sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. These heat boosters awaken your senses and take the soup to a new level of deliciousness. Creamy Delight: If you’re looking for a richer texture, use full-fat Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese. It lends an irresistible creaminess while keeping the protein punch. Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh or dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary while the soup simmers for an aromatic touch. These herbs introduce an enticing fragrance that complements the soothing nature of soup. Experiment with Broccoli: If you want to switch things up, try using a mix of fresh and frozen broccoli. The fresh will provide a crisp bite, while the frozen will blend wonderfully into the creamy base. Serve with Style: Pair your bowl of this wholesome delight with a fresh crusty bread, a side salad, or even a protein-stuffed wrap to complement the meal. A complete experience that your family will love is only a soup away. For more delicious broccoli combinations, check out these comforting recipes: Chicken Broccoli Sizzling or give a try to a tasty Broccoli Pasta Salad. Enjoy your cooking adventure! Creamy High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe FAQs What type of broccoli is best for this soup? Fresh broccoli is the best choice for a vibrant taste and texture, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli is a convenient alternative. Just add it directly to the pot as it cooks down similarly and saves prep time! How can I store leftover broccoli cheddar soup? To keep your Creamy High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup delicious, store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Gently reheat on low heat on the stovetop to maintain that creamy consistency you love! Can I freeze this soup for later? Absolutely! You can freeze your soup in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool the soup completely before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on low heat to prevent separation. What if my soup is too thick? If you find your soup too thick after blending, simply add a splash of vegetable or chicken broth while reheating to reach your desired consistency. Stir well to combine, and warm it back to your ideal serving temperature! Is this soup suitable for dietary restrictions? Yes! This Creamy High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be made vegetarian-friendly by using vegetable broth. You can also adjust the recipe to be gluten-free by ensuring all ingredients, including the broth, meet gluten-free standards. Always check packages for potential allergens when cooking. Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup That's High in Protein A delightful Broccoli Cheddar Soup, rich in flavor and protein thanks to cottage cheese and navy beans. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Soup Base2 tablespoons Butter Can substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.1 medium Yellow Onion Substitute with shallots for a milder taste.1 medium Carrot Can replace with sweet potato if desired.2 stalks Celery Omit if not available.2 cloves Garlic Optional, but recommended for depth.For Protein and Texture1 can Navy Beans Can substitute chickpeas for a different texture.4 cups Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.1.5 pounds Broccoli Offers nutritional value; frozen broccoli can be used directly.For Creaminess and Flavor1 cup Cottage Cheese Use full-fat for best texture, or Greek yogurt as a substitute.1.5 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded Sharp cheddar is ideal for flavor.For Seasoning1 teaspoon Paprika Can substitute with cayenne for more heat.Salt Adjust to taste.Black Pepper Offers subtle heat; freshly ground is best. Equipment large stockpotblender Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large stockpot over medium heat. Once the butter is foamy, add 1 chopped yellow onion, 1 diced carrot, and 2 chopped celery stalks. Cook for about 8 minutes until soft and aromatic. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.Stir in 1 can of drained navy beans, 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, and 1.5 pounds of chopped broccoli. Season with 1 teaspoon of paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender.Once softened, carefully remove 1.5 cups of the soup from the pot and cool for 10 minutes. Add this portion to a blender with 1 cup of cottage cheese. Blend until smooth and creamy.Pour the blended mixture back into the stockpot. Lower the heat to medium-low and gradually stir in 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and combined.Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with additional cheddar, cracked black pepper, or a sprinkle of paprika. Serve warm with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 20gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 8gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg NotesUse fresh ingredients for best flavor. Allow soup to cool slightly before blending to prevent curdling. Stir in cheddar slowly while on low heat to avoid clumping. Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 2 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
