There’s just something magical about a bowl of high protein broccoli cheddar soup when the weather turns crisp. Creamy, cheesy, and rich but this version sneaks in a healthy twist. With 20 grams of protein per serving, it’ll warm your belly and keep you full all afternoon.
If you’re looking for a high protein broccoli cheddar soup that’s cozy, comforting, and easy to make, you’re in the right place.
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Why You’ll Love This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This soup brings all the cozy vibes, with a nourishing little boost. Thanks to blended cottage cheese and sharp cheddar, it’s silky and cheesy without all the heaviness of cream. Whether you’re watching your macros or just craving a better-for-you comfort meal, this high protein broccoli cheddar soup has your back.
It’s a weeknight win, a lunchbox legend, and a soul-hugger in a bowl. Plus, it all happens in one pot.
For another bowl of cozy goodness, try our creamy soup it’s a fan favorite around here.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple & Wholesome Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter (or olive oil)
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 4 cups chopped broccoli (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups 1% milk
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese, blended until smooth
- 4 oz extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Quick Swaps
You can use olive oil instead of butter and gluten-free flour works great too. Frozen broccoli is a handy shortcut, but fresh brings a brighter flavor.
And the secret to this high protein broccoli cheddar soup? Blended cottage cheese. It melts right in and boosts protein without the heaviness of cream.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Extra Protein
Sauté the base
Melt butter in a large pot. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 10 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Add garlic and flavor
Toss in the garlic and smoked paprika. Stir in the flour and coat the veggies to thicken things up.
Time to simmer
Pour in the broth and broccoli. Let everything simmer for 8 9 minutes until the broccoli softens just enough.
Blend in the creaminess
Lower the heat, then stir in the milk, cottage cheese, and cheddar. Keep things gentle no boiling. Blend a cup of the soup and return it to the pot for extra creaminess.
And just like that, your high protein broccoli cheddar soup is ready to serve.
Tips for the Creamiest High Protein Soup
- Blend the cottage cheese first so it melts seamlessly
- Avoid high heat after adding milk and cheese to prevent curdling
- Add broth to thin it out if needed, or simmer longer to thicken
This technique makes your high protein broccoli cheddar soup feel like it’s loaded with cream even though it’s not.
For another protein-packed bowl that’ll fill you up just right, try ourchicken soup. It’s plant-based comfort at its finest.
Storage & Leftovers
This soup keeps great for 3 days in the fridge. Store it in a sealed container and reheat gently. Microwave or stovetop works just stir well.
Skip the freezer. Dairy soups don’t freeze well and can separate.
What to Serve With Broccoli Cheddar Soup
It’s a full meal on its own, but I love it with a crisp green salad or toasted sourdough. Want something protein-packed and bright? This Hearty Soup is a perfect sidekick.
Or serve your high protein broccoli cheddar soup with roasted veggies or a baked potato for extra heartiness.
FAQs
Is broccoli cheddar soup healthy?
Usually not but this high protein broccoli cheddar soup flips the script. Less fat, more veggies, and extra protein thanks to cottage cheese.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Totally! Just chop it into smaller pieces if needed and simmer a few extra minutes.
What kind of cheese works best?
Extra-sharp cheddar melts smoothly and adds big flavor fast. Always shred it yourself pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as nicely.
More Cozy & High-Protein Recipes to Try
This soup is just the start. Try our creamy roasted cauliflower soup for another cozy classic, or dive into this lentil and mushroom stew for a rich, meaty texture no meat needed. Feeling fresh? This chickpea salad is a fast favorite for light lunches.
Let’s Get Cooking
Ready to warm up your week? This high protein broccoli cheddar soup is here to fuel you with flavor and comfort. Leave a comment below if you give it a try, or pin it for later.
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High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion diced
- 2 large carrots peeled and diced
- 1 stalk celery diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 4 cups chopped broccoli fresh or frozen
- 2 cups 1% milk
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese blended until smooth
- 4 oz extra-sharp cheddar cheese shredded (about 1 cup)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring often, until softened.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in smoked paprika and flour until veggies are coated and flour is absorbed.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Add broccoli and cook for 8–9 minutes, until fork-tender.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in milk gently, without boiling.
- Add blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar. Stir until cheese melts and soup is creamy.
- Optional: Blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in for a smoother texture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.