Powerful High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup for Optimal Health

As the leaves turn and the air gets a little crisp, there’s nothing like a cozy bowl of soup to warm you from the inside out. Picture this: a chilly evening where you wrap yourself in a soft blanket, settle into your favorite chair, and savor a hearty High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a comforting hug on a chilly day.

Inspired by childhood memories of visiting cozy diners with a steaming bowl of cheesy goodness, this recipe channels that nostalgia while boosting your protein intake. What makes it stand out is its simple preparation combined with rich flavors that delight your taste buds. Perfectly suited for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends, it’s nutritious enough to nourish yet comforting enough to satisfy. Grab a spoon, and let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup offers a delightful blend of flavors, textures, and nutrients that is hard to resist. First and foremost, it combines the rich, creamy essence of cheddar with the wholesome benefits of broccoli, ensuring every spoonful is packed with flavor and goodness. Here’s why you will absolutely adore it:

• High in Protein: With the addition of protein-rich ingredients, this soup is a fantastic way to meet your daily needs, making it an excellent choice for those aiming to bulk up or stay active.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, with minimal prep time and easy-to-follow steps, allowing both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices to whip it up effortlessly.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt the soup to fit your dietary preferences or needs, whether plant-based, gluten-free, or with a spicy twist.
• Comforting and Delicious: The creamy base and sharp cheddar create a flavor profile that is simply irresistible, perfect for enjoying alone or sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Now that you’re inspired, let’s gather our ingredients. This recipe calls for simple, wholesome items that you may already have in your pantry or refrigerator. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients

• 4 cups broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen, broccoli adds fiber and essential vitamins. It’s a powerhouse of nutrients that brings both color and health benefits to the soup.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: This brings a lovely sweetness and depth of flavor, creating a tasty foundation for the soup.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic provides a warm, aromatic quality while also offering various health benefits.
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth: This broth forms the base of the soup, giving it body and enhancing the overall flavor.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Rich and creamy, this ingredient delivers that luxurious texture we crave in a comforting soup.
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star of the show! Cheddar adds tanginess and depth, making every bite memorable.
• 1 cup cooked chicken (optional): This optional addition significantly boosts the protein content of the soup, making it even heartier.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors in the soup.

Optional Additions

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a hint of spice, a pinch of red pepper can add a nice kick.
• 1 cup of quinoa or lentils: To add an extra dose of protein and texture, consider throwing in some cooked quinoa or lentils.

Special Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or chives: Chopped herbs provide a fresh, colorful touch, brightening the dish both visually and in flavor.
• Extra shredded cheese: Sprinkle some on top while serving for a melty, gooey finish that cheese lovers will swoon over.
• Crispy bacon bits: For a non-vegetarian twist, add a few bacon bits for a smoky crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

It’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! Follow these simple steps to make your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

1. Sauté the onions and garlic: In a large pot over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
2. Add broccoli and broth: Toss in the broccoli florets and pour in the broth. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
3. Blend the soup base: Using an immersion blender (or transferring in batches to a traditional blender), blend the soup until it’s smooth. You can leave some chunks of broccoli for texture if you prefer.
4. Incorporate cream and cheese: Return the blended soup to low heat and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts and combines smoothly.
5. Add chicken (if using): If you’re adding cooked chicken, mix it in now. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
6. Serve hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of fresh herbs, additional cheese, or bacon bits. Enjoy immediately!

Serving and Storage Tips

This soup is not only delicious right off the stove, but it also makes for fantastic leftovers! Here’s how to serve and store your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup effectively:

• Serving: Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a wholesome meal.
• Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Helpful Tips

Here are some handy tips to maximize the deliciousness of your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

• Fresh vs. frozen broccoli: Both work well, but fresh broccoli delivers a brighter flavor and slightly better texture. If using frozen, let it thaw slightly before adding to the pot.
• Cheese choice: While sharp cheddar is a classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gouda or Gruyère for a unique twist on flavors.
• Thinning the soup: If you find your soup too thick, simply add a little bit of broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions FAQ

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free if you ensure that your broth and any added spices are gluten-free. Always check labels for any hidden gluten ingredients.

Can I use different vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or even spinach for added flavor and nutrients.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with a variety of sides, such as crusty whole-grain bread, a fresh garden salad, or a side of roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

Your journey into creating the High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is just the beginning of delightful culinary experiences. This recipe isn’t just a dish; it’s about cozying up during chilly evenings, enjoying nourishing goodness, and creating memorable moments with loved ones around the dinner table. Its unique blend of flavors and nutritional benefits make it a go-to meal for any occasion.

We hope you’ll gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and bring this soup to life in your kitchen. We would love to hear your thoughts or any adaptations you make! Share your experiences in the comments below, and let’s revel in the joy of cooking together!

Powerful High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup for Optimal Health

Print Recipe

Savor our Powerful High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup packed with nutrients for optimal health A delicious guiltfree addition to your meals

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

4 cups broccoli florets

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup cooked chicken (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 cup of quinoa or lentils (optional)

Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Extra shredded cheese for garnish (optional)

Crispy bacon bits for garnish (optional)

Instructions

In a large pot over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Toss in the broccoli florets and pour in the broth. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the broccoli is tender.

Using an immersion blender (or transferring in batches to a traditional blender), blend the soup until it’s smooth. You can leave some chunks of broccoli for texture if you prefer.

Return the blended soup to low heat and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts and combines smoothly.

If you’re adding cooked chicken, mix it in now. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of fresh herbs, additional cheese, or bacon bits. Enjoy immediately!

• Author: souzanfood
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 3g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 20g

Keywords: broccoli cheddar soup, high protein soup, cozy soup recipe