Broccoli Cheddar Soup | High Protein, Creamy & Comforting
When it comes to cozy, satisfying soups, Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a total classic — creamy, cheesy, and brimming with warm, feel-good vibes. But this version isn’t just comforting… it’s also high in protein, making it perfect for a nourishing lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. 🥦🧀💪Packed with protein from a blend of cheddar cheese, milk, and (secret ingredient alert! 👀) blended cottage cheese or Greek yogurt, this soup satisfies hunger and keeps your macros in check. It’s smooth and rich but without the heavy cream overload.Perfect for cold days, post-gym recovery, or just when you’re craving a better-than-Panera bowl at home. Bonus? It comes together in just 30 minutes.Love cozy soups? Don’t miss our Creamy Cauliflower Soup or this hearty Chicken and White Bean Chili.Let’s make your new favorite high-protein comfort food!
Equipment
- Here’s what you’ll need to make this soup seamless:
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven – for sautéing and simmering
- Cutting board + sharp knife – for chopping broccoli, onion, and garlic
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring without scratching your pot
- Immersion blender (or regular blender) – for blending part of the soup for creaminess
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater – freshly shredded cheese melts best!
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen
- 2 medium carrots peeled and grated or chopped
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth or veggie broth
- 1 cup low-fat milk or any milk of choice
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese or 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika optional, for warmth
- Pinch of red pepper flakes optional, for a kick
Optional Toppings:
- Extra shredded cheddar
- Croutons or toasted bread
- Chopped green onions
- Cracked black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and garlic, cooking for 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Veggies
- Stir in the broccoli florets and carrots.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes, just to soften slightly.
Step 3: Add Broth & Simmer
- Pour in the chicken broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, until the broccoli is fork-tender.
Step 4: Blend for Creaminess
- Add cottage cheese (or Greek yogurt) and milk to the pot.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency — completely smooth or leave some texture.
- Tip: If using a regular blender, let the soup cool slightly, then blend in batches.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Season
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese slowly, allowing it to melt.
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes to taste.
Step 6: Serve!
- Ladle into bowls, garnish with more cheddar, green onions, or croutons, and enjoy warm!
Notes
🔄 Variations
This soup is super versatile! Here’s how to change it up: 1. Vegan Version
Use plant-based cheese, oat or almond milk, and coconut yogurt. 2. Extra Protein Boost
Stir in 1 scoop unflavored protein powder or collagen peptides when blending. 3. Chunky & Cheesy
Don’t blend it all — leave some broccoli and carrot pieces for a heartier texture. 4. Spicy Broccoli Soup
Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne or a diced jalapeño for heat. 5. Broccoli Potato Soup
Add 1 small chopped potato with the broccoli for extra creaminess. 6. Low-Carb Version
Skip carrots and reduce milk for a keto-friendly bowl. 🧊 Storage and Reheating
Fridge:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freezer:
Let soup cool completely, then freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much. ❓ 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! No need to thaw first — just add directly to the pot. 2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely, as long as your broth and cheese are gluten-free. 3. Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes! It tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen. 4. How do I make it creamier without heavy cream?
Use cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, or even blended white beans. 5. What’s the best cheese for this soup?
Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor and melts well. 6. Can I use a blender if I don’t have an immersion blender?
Yes, but cool the soup slightly and blend in batches. 7. How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?
Add it slowly, and make sure the soup isn’t boiling when you stir it in. 8. Can I add meat?
Sure — try adding shredded chicken, bacon, or even ground turkey. 9. How do I thicken the soup without flour?
Let it simmer uncovered to reduce, or blend in more cottage cheese or cooked potato. 10. What’s the calorie/protein count?
Varies by ingredients, but each bowl typically has ~15–20g of protein and under 300 calories. ✅ Conclusion
This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition. 🥦🧀💪 With the creamy richness of a classic cheddar soup — and a sneaky high-protein twist from cottage cheese or Greek yogurt — it’s a nourishing upgrade to one of your favorite comfort meals. And it’s ready in under 30 minutes! Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or warming up on a cold day, this soup is cozy, healthy, and full of flavor. For more high-protein comfort foods, try: High Protein Pasta Bake Creamy Cottage Cheese Alfredo One-Pot Chicken and Rice Soup Enjoy every creamy, cheesy spoonful!
This soup is super versatile! Here’s how to change it up: 1. Vegan Version
Use plant-based cheese, oat or almond milk, and coconut yogurt. 2. Extra Protein Boost
Stir in 1 scoop unflavored protein powder or collagen peptides when blending. 3. Chunky & Cheesy
Don’t blend it all — leave some broccoli and carrot pieces for a heartier texture. 4. Spicy Broccoli Soup
Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne or a diced jalapeño for heat. 5. Broccoli Potato Soup
Add 1 small chopped potato with the broccoli for extra creaminess. 6. Low-Carb Version
Skip carrots and reduce milk for a keto-friendly bowl. 🧊 Storage and Reheating
Fridge:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freezer:
Let soup cool completely, then freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much. ❓ 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! No need to thaw first — just add directly to the pot. 2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely, as long as your broth and cheese are gluten-free. 3. Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes! It tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen. 4. How do I make it creamier without heavy cream?
Use cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, or even blended white beans. 5. What’s the best cheese for this soup?
Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor and melts well. 6. Can I use a blender if I don’t have an immersion blender?
Yes, but cool the soup slightly and blend in batches. 7. How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?
Add it slowly, and make sure the soup isn’t boiling when you stir it in. 8. Can I add meat?
Sure — try adding shredded chicken, bacon, or even ground turkey. 9. How do I thicken the soup without flour?
Let it simmer uncovered to reduce, or blend in more cottage cheese or cooked potato. 10. What’s the calorie/protein count?
Varies by ingredients, but each bowl typically has ~15–20g of protein and under 300 calories. ✅ Conclusion
This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition. 🥦🧀💪 With the creamy richness of a classic cheddar soup — and a sneaky high-protein twist from cottage cheese or Greek yogurt — it’s a nourishing upgrade to one of your favorite comfort meals. And it’s ready in under 30 minutes! Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or warming up on a cold day, this soup is cozy, healthy, and full of flavor. For more high-protein comfort foods, try: High Protein Pasta Bake Creamy Cottage Cheese Alfredo One-Pot Chicken and Rice Soup Enjoy every creamy, cheesy spoonful!