Description
This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting, creamy, and nutritious meal perfect for chilly days. Packed with fresh vegetables and blended cottage cheese, it offers a rich, cheesy flavor while providing a healthy boost of protein. This soup is easy to make on the stovetop and a wonderful way to enjoy a warm, satisfying bowl full of wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chopped broccoli
Liquids & Dairy
- 3 cups vegetable broth (not-chicken style)
- 2 cups 1% milk
- 1 cup low fat cottage cheese, blended
- 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt Butter: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter until it is fully melted and slightly bubbling.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently to soften the vegetables and develop their flavors.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute over medium heat, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.
- Add Spices and Flour: Sprinkle the smoked paprika and flour over the vegetables. Stir continuously for one minute to coat the vegetables evenly with the flour, which will help thicken the soup.
- Add Broth and Broccoli: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the chopped broccoli. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer Broccoli: Let the soup simmer for 8 to 9 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green.
- Add Milk and Warm: Lower the heat and stir in the 1% milk. Heat the soup gently, ensuring it does not boil to prevent curdling.
- Incorporate Cheeses: Add the blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently over low heat until the cheeses have melted and fully combined with the soup.
- Blend Soup: Transfer one cup of the soup to a blender and carefully blend to a smooth consistency, allowing steam to vent. Pour the blended soup back into the pot. Alternatively, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamier texture.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Stir well and serve warm.
Notes
- Using blended cottage cheese adds protein and creaminess without heavy cream.
- Be cautious with the heat after adding milk to avoid curdling.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour.
- You can adjust the thickness by blending more or less of the soup.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
