There’s something so comforting about a steaming bowl of Broccoli & Cheddar Protein Soup on a cool day. The creamy cheddar cheese blends with tender broccoli to create a hearty, protein-packed meal that fills your home with cozy aromas. It’s healthy enough for meal prep yet indulgent enough to feel like comfort food at its best.
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli & Cheddar Protein Soup
- Quick and easy for busy weeknights
- Nutritious with high protein and fiber
- Cozy flavor that pleases the whole family
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Works as both a light meal or hearty main dish
Tools and Preparation
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Perfect for simmering soup evenly
- Wooden Spoon: Gentle on pots while stirring cheese into broth
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For quick chopping of broccoli and onion
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To keep flavors balanced
- Ladle: For serving warm bowls with ease
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 pound fresh broccoli florets chopped
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk or unsweetened almond milk
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt or cottage cheese blended smooth for protein
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and soft about 3 minutes.
- Stir in broccoli and pour in broth. Bring to a boil then reduce to a gentle simmer for 10 minutes until broccoli is tender.
- Blend half of the soup with an immersion blender or stand blender for a creamy texture then return to pot.
- Lower the heat and stir in milk and blended Greek yogurt or cottage cheese.
- Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese stirring until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Serve hot and garnish with extra cheese or a sprinkle of parsley.
How to Serve Broccoli & Cheddar Protein Soup
- With a warm slice of crusty bread
- As a side to a fresh green salad
- Poured over baked potatoes for a hearty topping
- In a bread bowl for fun family dinners
- As part of a cozy soup and sandwich night
Tips for Perfect Results
- Use sharp cheddar for the best cheesy flavor.
- Don’t boil after adding cheese or dairy to avoid curdling.
- Blend only half the soup for a perfect balance of creamy and chunky.
- Add extra protein by stirring in shredded chicken or turkey.
- For meal prep divide into glass containers for easy lunches.
Best Pairings and Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with simple sides like garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh fruit salad.
It also goes wonderfully with my Creamy Beef Pasta for a cozy family dinner.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking broccoli which can turn it mushy.
- Adding cheese on high heat causing clumps.
- Using pre-shredded cheese which doesn’t melt as smoothly.
- Skipping seasoning leading to a bland soup.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Fridge: Store in airtight containers up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of broth or milk if too thick.
✨ This is one recipe you’ll definitely want to save – Pin it now for later!
FAQs
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I make it dairy free?
Yes swap cheddar with dairy free cheese and use almond or oat milk.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely it works just as well.
How do I make it extra creamy?
Blend more of the soup or add an extra scoop of Greek yogurt.
Final Thoughts (Emma’s Voice)
This Broccoli & Cheddar Protein Soup has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s both nourishing and comforting. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel cared for from the first spoonful.
If you try this recipe let me know in the comments – I love hearing your stories and kitchen wins!
Click the link for the full 10 High-Protein Soups That Make Weight Loss Feel Like Comfort Food and save it to your board!
Broccoli & Cheddar Protein Soup
Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden Spoon
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Ladle
- Immersion Blender
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lb fresh broccoli florets chopped
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk or unsweetened almond milk
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt or blended cottage cheese
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- red pepper flakes optional, for heat
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and soft, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in broccoli and pour in broth. Bring to a boil then reduce to a gentle simmer for 10 minutes until broccoli is tender.
- Blend half of the soup with an immersion blender or stand blender for a creamy texture, then return to pot.
- Lower the heat and stir in milk and blended Greek yogurt or cottage cheese.
- Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Serve hot and garnish with extra cheese or a sprinkle of parsley.