High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This creamy and flavorful High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is loaded with nutrient-dense ingredients and packed with protein to keep you feeling full. Made with broccoli, cheddar cheese, cottage cheese, and optional protein powder, it’s the perfect comforting meal for a healthy lifestyle.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup, High-Protein
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter (or olive oil)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or skim milk)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese (blended until smooth)
- 1 scoop unflavored protein powder (optional, for extra protein)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for depth of flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the diced onion for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Cook Broccoli: Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Add the chopped broccoli and cook for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Blend for Creaminess: Stir in the almond milk and blended cottage cheese. Use an immersion blender (or carefully transfer half of the soup to a blender) to create a smoother consistency while leaving some chunks for texture.
- Melt the Cheese: Lower the heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, black pepper, salt, and smoked paprika. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Boost Protein: If using, mix the unflavored protein powder with a little warm broth until dissolved, then stir into the soup.
- Final Touch: Let the soup simmer for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with extra cheese or a sprinkle of smoked paprika, and enjoy!
Notes
- You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- If you prefer a smoother soup, you can blend it more or use a high-speed blender.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings and protein powder based on your preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 30mg