If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, nourishing soup that doesn’t skimp on flavor—or nutrition—this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is going to be your new weeknight hero. It takes everything you adore about the classic version, but with a clever twist: protein-rich swaps and a few tricks ensure each spoonful is as satisfying as it is delicious. The result is a velvety, cheesy bowl that manages to taste indulgent while being surprisingly wholesome. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a chilly evening or looking to amp up your everyday lunches, this soup delivers all the creamy goodness you want, with extra benefits you’ll love.

High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is full of grocery staples, yet each one plays a major role in building the soup’s signature balance of creamy texture, hearty flavor, and vibrant color. Let’s take a closer look at how each component brings something special to the pot!

Butter: Creates a rich base and helps to sauté the veggies to sweet, savory perfection.
Yellow onion: Adds subtle sweetness and a classic soup foundation.
Carrots: Bring color and natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with broccoli.
Celery: Offers earthy undertones and rounds out the classic mirepoix flavor trio.
Garlic: Infuses the soup with fragrant, irresistible depth.
All-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour): Thickens the soup for that satisfying, creamy texture.
Smoked paprika: Adds a whisper of smokiness and enhances the overall savoriness.
Vegetable broth: Lends body and the ideal liquid foundation—use a favorite “not-chicken” broth for that extra savory boost.
Broccoli: The star of the show! Fresh, chopped broccoli packs nutrition and loads of green goodness.
1% milk: Keeps things creamy without excess fat; you can use your favorite milk alternative if needed.
Cheddar cheese, shredded: Melts into the soup for outrageously cheesy flavor and that classic stretchiness.
Low fat cottage cheese, blended: This is the high protein secret weapon—it ups the creaminess and the satiety factor.
Salt & pepper: Bring all the flavors into perfect harmony so every bite pops.

How to Make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the onion, carrot, and celery, stirring often. Let them cook gently for about 10 minutes—their flavors will mellow and sweeten, forming the heart and soul of your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup’s rich, savory base.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Next, stir in the minced garlic. As it hits the heat, it releases a gorgeous, warm aroma—give it just a minute so it doesn’t burn. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and the flour, stirring constantly to coat the vegetables. This creates a slightly thick, seasoned base that will give the soup body and loads of flavor.

Step 3: Simmer with Broccoli and Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and add the chopped broccoli. Turn up the heat and bring your soup to a gentle simmer. After about 8 or 9 minutes, the broccoli should be tender but still brightly colored, keeping the soup’s flavor fresh and lively.

Step 4: Stir in Milk and Cheeses

Lower the heat and stir in the milk; let the soup warm through. Next comes the real twist: blend the cottage cheese until smooth, then add it along with the shredded cheddar. Stir gently, making sure the heat stays low—if it’s too high, the dairy could curdle. These comforting ingredients melt into the soup, delivering extra protein and silky richness.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess

For that signature creamy texture, ladle about a cup of the soup into a blender. Remove the center from the blender lid to allow steam to escape, then blend until completely smooth. Pour it back into the pot, or use an immersion blender for a bit more rustic texture. Your finished High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup will be thick, luscious, and full of flavor.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Every batch is a little different, so don’t skip this step—you want all those wonderful flavors to shine through!

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Garnishes

A bowl of High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup practically begs for toppings! Finish each serving with an extra sprinkle of shredded cheddar, a scatter of chopped fresh chives, or a dash of smoked paprika. Not only does this add color and contrast, but it also lets everyone customize their bowl to their heart’s content.

Side Dishes

For a meal that feels even more special, pair your soup with a slice of crusty whole grain bread or a warm, toasted English muffin on the side. Looking to keep things light and fresh? A bright, crunchy salad with lemony vinaigrette is the perfect counterpoint to the soup’s creamy richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate your soup game by serving the High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup in bread bowls or little mugs for a cozy, café-style touch. For gatherings, try pouring the soup into shooter glasses as a fun appetizer that’ll surprise and delight your guests. It truly shines no matter how you dish it up!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup keeps beautifully in the fridge. Pour cooled soup into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Give it a good stir before reheating to blend any separated ingredients back together for that just-cooked flavor.

Freezing

While soups with dairy can sometimes separate in the freezer, this recipe actually holds up pretty well thanks to the blended cottage cheese. Freeze cooled soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before gently reheating on the stove.

Reheating

To reheat, pour the desired amount into a saucepan and warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally. Take care not to let it boil—low and slow is best to keep the texture creamy and smooth. If you’re short on time, the microwave works too; just use short intervals and stir frequently.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well for High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup—there’s no need to thaw first. Just toss it in straight from the freezer and increase the simmering time by a few minutes, until the broccoli is tender.

Is there a way to make this soup vegan?

With a few swaps, yes: use vegan butter, your favorite plant milk, a good plant-based cheddar, and blended silken tofu instead of cottage cheese. The soup will still pack in protein and have that creamy, comforting texture.

Will the cottage cheese flavor be noticeable?

When blended smooth and mixed with the soups’ other flavors, the cottage cheese simply lends creaminess and extra protein—most people won’t be able to pick it out at all. The soup just tastes richer and more satisfying!

What’s the best way to blend the soup?

You can use either a standard blender or an immersion blender. For an ultra-creamy High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, blend a cup or two until silky, then stir it back in. If you like a chunkier texture, just pulse a few times right in the pot.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is flexible—try stirring in spinach, kale, or cauliflower with the broccoli for extra color and nutrients. Customize it based on what you have and love.

Final Thoughts

Give this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup a place in your regular meal rotation—you’ll be amazed by how filling, flavorful, and utterly cozy it is. Every spoonful proves that nourishing comfort food can be convenient, doable, and completely crave-worthy. I can’t wait for you to try it!