Name: High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon butter; 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; 2 cups 1% milk; 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup); 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese, blended; Salt and pepper to taste

This high protein broccoli cheddar soup is rich, creamy, and comforting—with a healthy twist. Packed with vegetables and a hidden boost of protein, it’s the perfect cozy bowl for chilly days or quick lunches that keep me full and satisfied.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love that this soup brings all the comfort of classic broccoli cheddar, but with extra protein to fuel my day. It’s creamy without being heavy, easy to make, and full of wholesome ingredients. I also like that it comes together in one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon butter
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
2 cups 1% milk
4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
1 cup low-fat cottage cheese, blended
Salt and pepper to taste

directions

I melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
I add the onion, carrot, and celery, and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring often.
I stir in the garlic and cook for one more minute.
I sprinkle in the flour and smoked paprika, stirring to coat the veggies evenly.
I pour in the vegetable broth and add the chopped broccoli, bringing everything to a simmer.
I let it cook for 8 to 9 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
I stir in the milk and warm the soup gently over low heat.
I mix in the blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar, stirring until smooth and melted.
I blend a portion of the soup (about one cup) and return it to the pot for a creamier texture, or I use an immersion blender to partially puree it.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 generous servings. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, so I can have a hearty homemade soup ready in just about 40 minutes.

Variations

For a gluten-free option, I use gluten-free flour instead of regular.
I sometimes use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for a richer taste.
To boost the protein even more, I occasionally swap in Greek yogurt for some of the milk.
If I want extra veggies, I add spinach or cauliflower along with the broccoli.
For a spicier kick, I sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. If the soup thickens too much, I just add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up. I avoid high heat to prevent the cheese from separating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, I can use frozen broccoli. I thaw it slightly and drain any extra water before adding it to the soup.

Will the milk or cheese curdle when reheated?

If I reheat the soup slowly over low heat and stir often, it stays smooth and creamy without curdling.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely. I like to make a batch ahead, store it in the fridge, and reheat portions as needed. It tastes just as good the next day.

What can I serve with this soup?

I enjoy it with a piece of crusty bread, a grilled cheese sandwich, or a simple side salad for a full meal.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, I can try using dairy-free milk, cheese, and cottage cheese alternatives. The texture might change a little, but it can still be creamy and delicious.

Conclusion

This high protein broccoli cheddar soup is one of my go-to recipes when I want something cozy and satisfying that still fits into a healthy routine. It’s flavorful, filling, and easy to make, which means it shows up in my kitchen again and again. Whether I’m meal prepping or looking for a quick dinner, this soup hits the spot every time.