Name: High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp butter; 1 yellow onion, diced; 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced; 2 ribs celery, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour); 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 4 cups vegetable broth; 5 cups chopped broccoli (fresh or frozen); 2 cups milk (1% or preferred); 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 cups low-fat cottage cheese, blended until smooth; Salt & black pepper, to taste

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This high protein broccoli cheddar soup is creamy, cozy, and secretly healthy with 20 grams of protein per serving. I love how this recipe transforms a comfort food classic into something filling, wholesome, and satisfying without sacrificing flavor.

High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this soup because it’s hearty yet light enough to enjoy for lunch or dinner without feeling heavy. The cottage cheese gives me the creaminess I crave while boosting protein, and the sharp cheddar adds the classic cheesy bite I expect in broccoli cheddar soup. I also love that it’s ready in just over 30 minutes, which makes it perfect for busy nights.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

butter
yellow onion, diced
carrots, peeled and diced
celery, diced
garlic, minced
all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
smoked paprika
vegetable broth
chopped broccoli
milk (1% or your choice)
cheddar cheese, shredded
low-fat cottage cheese, blended
salt & pepper to taste

Directions

I start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
I add onion, carrot, and celery, then cook them for about 10 minutes until softened.
I stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
I sprinkle in smoked paprika and flour, stirring until the vegetables are coated.
I pour in broth and broccoli, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
I let the broccoli cook for about 8–9 minutes until tender.
I add milk and reduce the heat to low so the soup stays warm without curdling.
I stir in the blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar until melted.
I carefully blend a small portion of the soup for extra creaminess, then return it to the pot.
I season with salt and pepper before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 cups of soup, serving 4–6 people. It takes 10 minutes to prep and about 25 minutes to cook, so I have it ready in just 35 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes swap smoked paprika with regular paprika if I want a milder flavor.
For extra creaminess, I blend more of the soup or add a bit of nutritional yeast for depth.
I occasionally stir in white beans for even more protein and fiber.
If I want a little heat, I add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.

Storage/Reheating

I keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I use the microwave in short intervals, stirring often so it heats evenly. I avoid freezing this soup because the dairy tends to separate, and the texture changes too much.

FAQs

Is this broccoli cheddar soup healthy?

I think so! By using cottage cheese and milk instead of heavy cream, I get a creamy soup that’s lower in fat and higher in protein while still loaded with vegetables.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, I’ve used frozen broccoli when I didn’t have fresh on hand, and it works just fine. I just make sure to simmer it long enough to soften.

What’s the best cheese to use?

I prefer extra sharp cheddar because a little goes a long way in flavor. I shred it from a block so it melts smoothly.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, I swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or even cornstarch as a thickener, and it still turns out great.

How do I make the soup thicker?

If I want a thicker consistency, I reduce the broth slightly, add a cornstarch slurry, or blend a larger portion of the soup before serving.

Conclusion

This high protein broccoli cheddar soup is my go-to when I want something cozy, nourishing, and satisfying. I love how it delivers comfort food flavor with a lighter, healthier twist. Whether I make it for a weeknight dinner or as meal prep for lunches, this soup always leaves me full and happy.