High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, comforting dish packed with protein and vibrant vegetables. Featuring a blend of broccoli, shredded cheddar, and blended low-fat cottage cheese, it offers a nutritious and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner. Enhanced with smoked paprika and vegetable broth, this soup delivers rich flavor while keeping calories and fat low.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chopped broccoli
Dairy
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cups 1% milk
- 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
- 1 cup low fat cottage cheese, blended
Pantry
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3 cups vegetable broth (preferably not-chicken style)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Flour and Paprika: Sprinkle 1/4 cup of all-purpose or gluten-free flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to coat and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika and stir to blend the flavors.
- Pour in Broth and Broccoli: Gradually add 3 cups of vegetable broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add the 4 cups of chopped broccoli to the pot. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until broccoli is tender.
- Add Milk and Blend Cottage Cheese: Stir in 2 cups of 1% milk, then add the 1 cup of blended low-fat cottage cheese. Mix thoroughly to combine and gently heat through without boiling to prevent curdling.
- Add Cheddar and Season: Remove the soup from heat and gradually stir in 4 oz shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup for a creamier texture, leaving some broccoli chunks for bite.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with extra shredded cheddar or fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Blending the cottage cheese adds protein and creaminess without extra fat.
- You can adjust the thickness by adding more broth or milk to your preference.
- Use an immersion blender to blend partially for a chunkier texture or fully for a smooth soup.
- Vegetable broth choice affects flavor; choose a good quality one for best results.
Keywords: Broccoli Cheddar Soup, High Protein Soup, Low Fat Soup, Healthy Soup, Comfort Food, Vegetable Soup, Creamy Soup