Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe | High Protein

Craving a cozy, comforting soup that’s not only delicious but also packed with protein? This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect choice! Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender broccoli florets, it’s a wholesome option for a satisfying lunch or dinner. Plus, we’ve added a high-protein twist to make it even better for you.

---

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious soup:

Vegetables:

• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 medium carrot, grated or julienned
• 1 small onion, finely chopped

Base:

• 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free alternative)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 2 cups milk (or unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free option)

Cheesy Goodness:

• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (use a good-quality cheese for the best flavor)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but adds depth of flavor)

Protein Boost:

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or 1 scoop unflavored protein powder (for an extra punch of protein)

Seasoning:

• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness)

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
2. Stir in the flour, creating a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

2. Add the Liquids

1. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps remain.
2. Add the milk, stirring continuously to create a smooth, creamy base.

3. Cook the Vegetables

1. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
2. Add the broccoli and carrots, cooking until tender (about 10-12 minutes).

Pro Tip: For a chunkier texture, only blend half the soup and leave the rest as-is. For a velvety texture, use an immersion blender to puree the entire soup.

4. Add the Cheese and Protein

1. Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan until fully melted.
2. Stir in the Greek yogurt (or protein powder), mixing thoroughly to avoid clumps.

Important: Avoid boiling the soup after adding the cheese and yogurt as this can cause it to curdle.

5. Season and Serve

1. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheddar, croutons, or a drizzle of cream if desired.

---

Nutritional Benefits

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a fantastic way to enjoy comfort food with a nutritional boost. Here’s why:

• High Protein: Thanks to the Greek yogurt or protein powder, this soup offers a substantial protein boost to keep you fuller for longer.
• Vitamin-Rich: Broccoli is loaded with vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber.
• Cheesy Goodness: The sharp cheddar not only adds flavor but also provides calcium for strong bones.

---

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portioned containers for up to 3 months.

Pro Tip: If freezing, avoid adding the cheese and Greek yogurt until you reheat the soup. This ensures the texture remains smooth and creamy.

---

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe combines the comfort of a classic dish with a modern, high-protein twist. Whether you’re meal-prepping or enjoying it fresh, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments!

Enjoy your creamy, protein-packed bowl of goodness!