The Creamiest High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Warming comfort meets nutritional powerhouse in this delightful high-protein broccoli cheddar soup that packs a serious flavor punch.

Rich and creamy textures blend seamlessly with nutrient-dense ingredients.

Cheese lovers will adore the sharp cheddar melting through each spoonful.

Protein-conscious eaters can rejoice in this clever twist on a classic comfort dish.

broccoli brings its green goodness, creating a balanced meal that satisfies hunger and nourishes your body.

Blending takes minimal effort, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights.

You’ll want to savor every spoonful of this delectable soup that proves healthy can taste incredible.

Why Broccoli Cheddar Soup Is So Filling

• Boost Protein Power: Packed with shredded chicken or tofu, this soup delivers a substantial protein punch that keeps you feeling satisfied and energized throughout the day.
• Quick Comfort in a Bowl: Minimal ingredients and simple cooking steps make this recipe perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to create a delicious, nutritious meal in just a few minutes.
• Veggie-Loaded Goodness: Broccoli, carrots, celery, and onions blend seamlessly to create a nutrient-rich soup that sneaks extra vegetables into your diet without compromising on flavor.
• Customize Your Comfort: Easily adaptable for vegetarians by swapping chicken with tofu, and flexible enough to suit different dietary preferences while maintaining its creamy, cheesy appeal.

Key Ingredients in This Protein-Packed Soup

• Broccoli: A nutrient-dense green vegetable that provides a fresh and hearty base for the soup.
• Chicken or Tofu: A protein-packed ingredient that adds substance and nutritional value to the dish.
• Cheddar Cheese: A sharp and creamy cheese that contributes rich flavor and smooth texture to the soup.

• Onion, Carrots, Celery, Garlic, Thyme: A classic flavor-building combination that creates a deep and complex taste foundation.

• Broth, Almond Milk: A light and flavorful liquid base that helps create a smooth soup consistency.
• Flour: A thickening agent that helps create a creamy and velvety texture.
• Greek Yogurt: An ingredient that adds extra creaminess and boosts the protein content of the soup.

• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the overall flavor profile.

• Olive Oil: A healthy fat used for sautéing vegetables and adding a subtle richness to the soup.

• Fresh Herbs: A fresh and aromatic topping that can add a bright finish to the soup.

How to Make High-Protein Broccoli Soup Right

Step 1: Launch Flavor Foundation

Grab a large pot and drizzle olive oil over medium heat. Toss in chopped onions, carrots, and celery.

Dance those veggies around the pot for about 5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. Sprinkle minced garlic and a pinch of thyme, stirring for another quick minute to wake up those amazing aromas.

Step 2: Create Silky Soup Base

Dust flour over the sautéed vegetables, mixing thoroughly to coat. Slowly pour in broth and almond milk, whisking constantly to prevent any pesky lumps from forming.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, watching it transform into a creamy canvas.

Step 3: Boost Nutrition With Green Giants

Introduce broccoli florets and your protein source (shredded chicken or tofu) into the bubbling mixture.

Cover the pot and let everything mingle for 10-12 minutes. The broccoli should remain vibrant green and tender, holding onto its nutritional superpowers.

Step 4: Melt In Cheesy Goodness

Pull the pot off the heat. Gradually fold in grated cheddar cheese until it melts into liquid gold.

Swirl in Greek yogurt for an extra protein punch and luxurious creaminess. Season with salt and pepper to make the flavors sing.

Step 5: Serve With Style

Ladle the steaming soup into bowls. Optional: Sprinkle extra cheddar or fresh herbs on top.

Pair with crusty whole-grain bread or a crisp side salad for a complete meal that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Notes to Help Cheddar Soup Turn Out Well

• Chop vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the soup.
• Remove pot from heat before adding cheese and stir gradually to create smooth, silky melting without separating.
• Swap chicken with plant-based alternatives like chickpeas or lentils for vegetarian protein options that maintain nutritional value.
• Cook broccoli just until tender to preserve vibrant green color and retain maximum nutritional benefits and crisp texture.
• Adjust liquid quantities if soup becomes too thick by adding extra broth or almond milk for desired creamy thickness.

Interesting Twists for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Vegetarian Power Soup: Replace chicken with extra-firm tofu or white beans for a plant-based protein boost. Add nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
• Low-Carb Green Soup: Swap flour with almond flour or xanthan gum. Use cauliflower instead of broccoli for reduced carbohydrate content.
• Dairy-Free Wellness Version: Substitute cheddar with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives. Use coconut milk instead of almond milk for creamy texture.
• Spicy Protein Kick: Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes during vegetable sautéing. Include smoked paprika and cayenne for extra heat and depth of flavor.

Great Pairings with Protein-Packed Broccoli Soup

A Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio cuts through the soup’s richness, complementing its creamy texture with bright, acidic notes that refresh the palate.

Toasted sourdough or hearty multigrain bread provides a perfect crunchy contrast to the smooth soup, allowing diners to soak up every delicious bite.

Create a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the soup’s heaviness, adding a zesty and nutritious component to the meal.

A light wheat beer or hoppy pale ale offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, cheesy soup, creating a satisfying and balanced dining experience.

How to Keep Broccoli Cheddar Soup Fresh

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving 1-inch space for expansion. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Avoid freezing if using yogurt, as texture might separate.
• Transfer desired portion to microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly. Stop when soup reaches steaming temperature.
• Pour soup into saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir frequently to prevent scorching. Add splash of broth or milk if soup appears too thick. Warm until heated through, approximately 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

• Is this soup healthy?

Yes, it’s packed with protein from chicken (or tofu), Greek yogurt, and cheddar cheese. Broccoli adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious meal.

• Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with tofu or plant-based protein like chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

• How can I boost protein content further?

Add a scoop of protein powder, include extra Greek yogurt, or top with roasted nuts or seeds for additional protein.

• What if I'm lactose intolerant?

Use lactose-free milk, dairy-free cheese alternatives, and lactose-free yogurt to make the soup suitable for your dietary needs.