High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Healthy Comfort Food (Print Version)
High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup offers healthy comfort. Enjoy this creamy, satisfying meal packed with nutrients and flavor, perfect for a wholesome dinner.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ Aromatic Foundation
01 -
1 tbsp olive oil
02 -
1/2 yellow onion, diced
03 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
04 -
1 large carrot, peeled and diced
05 -
1 stalk celery, diced
→ Creamy Protein Boost
06 -
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
07 -
2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
08 -
1 cup 1% milk
09 -
1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
→ Signature Veg & Cheesy Finish
10 -
4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 lb)
11 -
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (reduced-fat recommended)
12 -
1 tsp Dijon mustard
13 -
1/2 tsp dry mustard powder
14 -
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
15 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1/2 yellow onion, 1 large carrot, and 1 stalk celery, all diced. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in 2 cloves minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant, forming the aromatic base for your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup | Healthy Comfort Food.
02 -
Sprinkle 2 tbsp all-purpose flour over the cooked vegetables and stir for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth and 1 cup 1% milk, ensuring no lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, to thicken slightly.
03 -
Add 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 lb) to the simmering base. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp. You want it cooked through but still vibrant for the best texture in your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup | Healthy Comfort Food.
04 -
While the broccoli cooks, blend 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese with about 1/2 cup of the hot soup liquid until completely smooth and creamy. This step ensures a silky texture and boosts the protein content without a grainy feel. Set aside.
05 -
Reduce heat to low. Stir in 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (reduced-fat recommended), 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/2 tsp dry mustard powder, and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg. Gradually whisk in the blended cottage cheese until fully incorporated and smooth.
06 -
Season your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup | Healthy Comfort Food generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, stirring, until heated through and the cheese is completely melted. Do not boil after adding cheese. Serve warm.
# Notes:
01 -
For an extra creamy texture, you can blend about half of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the cheese, leaving some broccoli florets whole.
02 -
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
03 -
Feel free to use regular sharp cheddar cheese if not concerned about reduced fat. For a vegetarian option, ensure you use vegetable broth.
04 -
Garnish with a sprinkle of extra cheddar, fresh parsley, or a few croutons for added crunch and flavor.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot or Dutch oven
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Chef's knife
04 -
Whisk
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
06 -
Blender (optional
07 -
for smoother soup)
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 304 kcal
Total Fat: 14 g
Total Carbohydrate: 21 g
Protein: 25 g