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Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Protein-Packed Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Creamy, Comforting, and Surprisingly Healthy

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of broccoli cheddar soup on a chilly day. It’s rich, cozy, and undeniably satisfying. But what if you could enjoy all that creamy indulgence while secretly sneaking in a boost of nutrition? That’s exactly what this protein-packed version delivers—20 grams of protein per serving, making it both comfort food and a smart choice for your body.

I’ve always adored broccoli cheddar soup, and my classic recipe remains a staple in my family. Still, there are times when I crave something more filling, especially when I’m focused on adding protein to my meals. That’s where this revamped recipe comes in. It’s everything you love about the original—velvety texture, cheesy flavor, and hearty broccoli—but with an extra nutritional edge.

So, what’s the secret ingredient? Cottage cheese. Yes, the humble cottage cheese is the game-changer here. When blended, it creates a silky, creamy base that rivals heavy cream but without the saturated fat. Add in just the right amount of sharp cheddar, and you get that signature cheesy punch while still keeping the soup balanced and wholesome. The cottage cheese doesn’t just thicken the soup—it transforms it into a protein powerhouse.

This recipe proves that healthy doesn’t mean boring. The broccoli provides fiber and vitamins, the cheddar satisfies your cheesy cravings, and the cottage cheese gives you the staying power you need to feel full and energized. It’s a meal that truly nourishes both body and soul.

If you’re loving the idea of sneaking cottage cheese into your favorite dishes, you’re not alone. Beyond this soup, it’s fantastic in a creamy pasta sauce, indulgent macaroni and cheese, or even protein-packed overnight oats. Think of this broccoli cheddar soup as the gateway to discovering just how versatile cottage cheese can be in your kitchen.

With every spoonful, you’ll realize you’re not just enjoying comfort food—you’re giving yourself a bowl of health, warmth, and flavor all in one.


Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoons 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 (I like the not-chicken style)
  • 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


Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion, carrot and celery and cook for 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
  3. Add the garlic and continue to cook over medium heat for one minute.
  4. Add the smoked paprika and flour and cook for one minute, stirring until the vegetables are coated with flour.
  5. Add the broth and broccoli and bring to a simmer.
  6. Simmer the broccoli for 8-9 minutes until softened.
  7. Add the milk and cook over low heat until the soup is warm.
  8. Add the blended cottage cheese and shredded cheese and stir until melted. Be careful not to turn the heat up too high or the milk will curdle.
  9. Transfer one cup of soup to a blender and blend, allowing steam to escape through the vent. Transfer the blended soup back to the pot. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender to gently blend the soup.
  10. Add salt to taste, if needed.