High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Creamy, comforting, and packed with protein — this version keeps the classic broccoli cheddar flavor while adding extra protein from cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and chicken broth without becoming overly heavy.
Servings
4–6 servings
Ingredients
Main Soup Base
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
- 1 medium carrot, shredded or finely diced
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1½ cups milk (high-protein milk preferred)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp mustard powder (optional but recommended)
High-Protein Blend
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
Optional Protein Boosts
Choose one for even higher protein:
- 1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 scoop unflavored protein powder (heat-stable)
- ½ cup blended white beans
Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Blender or immersion blender
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat butter or olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add:
- Onion
- Carrot
Cook:
- 4–5 minutes until softened.
Add garlic and cook:
- 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Cook the Broccoli
Add broccoli florets and broth.
Bring to a gentle boil.
Reduce heat and simmer:
- 10–12 minutes
Broccoli should become very tender.
3. Blend the Protein Base
In a blender combine:
- Cottage cheese
- Greek yogurt
- Milk
Blend until completely smooth.
This removes the cottage cheese texture and creates a creamy high-protein base.
4. Blend the Soup
You have two options:
Chunky Style
Blend only half the soup.
Smooth Style
Blend most or all of it.
Use an immersion blender directly in the pot or carefully transfer batches to a blender.
5. Add the Creamy Protein Mixture
Lower heat to low.
Slowly stir in:
- Blended protein mixture
Do NOT boil after adding yogurt or cottage cheese.
6. Add the Cheese
Gradually add cheddar cheese while stirring continuously.
Add:
- Salt
- Pepper
- Smoked paprika
- Mustard powder
Stir until fully melted and smooth.
7. Add Optional Protein
If using:
- Chicken
- White beans
- Protein powder
Add now and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
Texture Tips
For thicker soup:
- Simmer uncovered longer
- Add extra cheddar
- Blend more broccoli
For thinner soup:
- Add broth or milk gradually
Approximate Macros (Per Serving)
Without added chicken:
- Protein: 20–25g
- Carbs: 10–15g
- Fat: 12–18g
- Calories: 250–350
With chicken:
- Protein can exceed 35g per serving.
Flavor Variations
Spicy Version
Add:
- Jalapeños
- Cayenne
- Hot sauce
Extra Cheesy Version
Use:
- White cheddar
- Gouda
- Parmesan blend
Low-Carb Version
Reduce carrots and add more broccoli.
Serving Ideas
Serve with:
- Toasted sourdough
- Garlic bread
- Grilled chicken
- Croutons
- Crispy turkey bacon
Storage
- Refrigerate up to 4 days
- Reheat gently on low heat
- Avoid boiling during reheating
Freezing is possible, but dairy texture may slightly change.
