This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup offers a comforting blend of flavors and textures, combining tender broccoli with a rich, creamy base. The addition of cottage cheese boosts the protein content without compromising the classic cheesy taste.
Ideal for meal prep or a cozy weeknight dinner, this soup is both nutritious and satisfying. Pair it with a slice of whole-grain bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
-
1 tablespoon butter
-
1 large yellow onion, diced
-
2 large carrots, peeled and diced
-
1 stalk celery, diced
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
-
1/2 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 & pepper to taste
Directions:
-
Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
-
Add the onion, carrot, and celery; cook for 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
-
Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
-
Stir in the smoked paprika and flour; cook for 1 minute, coating the vegetables.
-
Add the vegetable broth and chopped broccoli; bring to a simmer.
-
Simmer the broccoli for 8–9 minutes until softened.
-
Add the milk and cook over low heat until the soup is warm.
-
Stir in the blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
-
Transfer 1 cup of soup to a blender and blend until smooth; return to the pot.
-
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal per serving
Servings: 4 servings
Why This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Stands Out
High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not just another variation of a beloved comfort food—it’s a clever, nutritious twist that balances indulgence and health. Traditional broccoli cheddar soups are famously creamy, cheesy, and warming, but they can also be high in saturated fats and low in protein, making them less than ideal for everyday meals. This recipe changes that equation.
By incorporating Greek yogurt and cannellini beans, this version introduces a rich protein boost and creaminess without needing heavy cream or excess cheese. The result is a silky, satisfying soup that feels like a splurge, but fuels your body with beneficial nutrients. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick weeknight meal, a vegetarian in need of more protein options, or simply someone seeking warmth and nourishment in a bowl, this soup delivers.
The Nutritional Advantage of Cannellini Beans and Greek Yogurt
One of the standout features of this soup is its reliance on white beans and Greek yogurt to add nutritional value without sacrificing flavor or texture. Cannellini beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber. They help create a velvety texture when blended, providing body and richness that mimics cream or flour-based thickeners.
Greek yogurt not only adds protein but also a tangy balance that elevates the flavor. It seamlessly melts into the soup once it’s off the heat, giving it a luscious mouthfeel without adding extra fat. It’s a great alternative for people looking to maintain or build muscle, regulate their blood sugar, or enjoy a lighter take on comfort food.
Flavor Notes and Texture Profile
Despite being a lighter version of the classic, this soup doesn’t skimp on flavor. The sautéed onion and garlic build a savory base that complements the earthy, slightly bitter taste of broccoli. The sharp cheddar brings that iconic richness and salty bite, making the soup deeply satisfying.
The texture is creamy and smooth with occasional flecks of broccoli for a bit of contrast. It’s the kind of meal that coats your spoon and clings lovingly to croutons or a side of crusty bread. For those who enjoy a thicker soup, you can adjust the consistency by blending less or adding slightly less broth.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Batch Cooking
This recipe holds up beautifully as leftovers, which makes it ideal for weekly meal prep. The flavor even deepens after a day in the fridge, as the garlic, cheddar, and beans meld more completely. It freezes well, too—simply portion it into individual containers, allow it to cool, and freeze for up to two months.
For busy families or professionals, this means an easy reheat-and-eat lunch or dinner that doesn’t feel like a compromise. Pair it with a salad, sandwich, or some protein toast for a complete, hearty meal.
Versatile for Dietary Preferences
One of the key advantages of this soup is its adaptability. While this version is vegetarian, you could easily make it vegan by swapping the Greek yogurt for a plant-based alternative and using dairy-free cheese. The cannellini beans already offer plenty of protein, so even with these swaps, the nutritional integrity remains strong.
Additionally, this soup is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Unlike some cream-based soups that require a flour-based roux to thicken, this soup gets its body from the blended vegetables and beans.
Kid-Friendly and Family Approved
With its cheesy flavor and smooth texture, this soup is surprisingly kid-friendly. Broccoli can be a tough sell for little ones, but blending it into a creamy base often wins them over. The color is inviting, and the cheesy aroma is instantly appealing.
For families trying to sneak more vegetables into their meals, this soup is a stealthy and successful strategy. Plus, it’s easy to make in larger batches and keeps well in the fridge, making it a convenient option for after-school dinners or quick meals on activity-packed evenings.
Easy and Quick to Prepare
One of the best features of this soup is that it’s simple enough for even novice home cooks. Most of the cooking happens in one pot, and the rest is a quick blend. You can have it on the table in just about 30 minutes, with minimal chopping and prep work.
This makes it ideal for weeknights when time is limited but you still want a homemade meal that feels thoughtful and nourishing. It’s also a great recipe to cook with kids or roommates—simple enough to follow, but satisfying and rewarding once served.
Pairs Well with Sides and Add-ons
Though the soup is delicious on its own, it pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. A warm, crusty sourdough slice or a whole-grain grilled cheese sandwich makes for a complete, comforting meal. For a lighter option, try a simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette.
For those who like texture in their soup, topping with roasted chickpeas, croutons, or even a sprinkle of crispy shallots can add a delightful crunch and depth. You can also stir in a handful of cooked grains like quinoa or brown rice for an even heartier bowl.
Seasonal and Year-Round Appeal
While this soup is a wintertime favorite due to its cozy nature, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round. Spring broccoli is especially sweet and tender, making for an exceptionally vibrant and flavorful base. In the colder months, it brings warmth and satiety. Even in summer, the lighter texture (thanks to Greek yogurt and beans) ensures it doesn’t feel too heavy.
It’s also a great way to use up extra broccoli or pantry beans before they expire, making it a practical and economical choice.
Conclusion: A Smarter, Healthier Comfort Food
This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup proves that comfort food can be both delicious and nutritious. By replacing high-fat cream with Greek yogurt and adding fiber-rich cannellini beans, you get a creamy, cheesy, soul-warming soup that fits into a variety of dietary lifestyles. It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and ideal for everything from solo lunches to family dinners.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, searching for a wholesome vegetarian meal, or simply looking for a way to enjoy a bowl of creamy goodness without the guilt, this soup is a winner. Try it once, and it may just become a staple in your recipe rotation—proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or comfort.