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I've been perfecting this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup and it's become our new favorite. Adding cottage cheese gives it an amazing creamy texture plus 20 grams of protein per bowl. It's like the classic soup we all love but even better for you.
What Makes This Special
This version keeps all that cheesy goodness while sneaking in extra nutrition. I love how the cottage cheese makes it so rich and creamy. The whole family enjoys it and I feel good knowing they're getting a protein-packed meal.
Everything You Need
- Butter: Two tablespoons for starting those veggies.
- Onion: One medium diced small.
- Garlic: Three cloves minced fresh is best.
- Flour: Two tablespoons to thicken things up.
- Smoked Paprika: Half teaspoon adds lovely depth.
- Veggie Broth: Four cups makes our base.
- Broccoli: Four cups fresh or frozen both work great.
- Milk: Two cups I use low-fat but whole milk works too.
- Cottage Cheese: One cup our protein secret.
- Cheddar: One cup extra sharp gives best flavor.
Let's Make It Together
- Start With Aromatics
- Melt your butter cook those onions until soft about 5 minutes then add garlic just until fragrant.
- Build The Base
- Stir in flour and paprika let them cook a minute then slowly whisk in your broth until smooth.
- Add Your Broccoli
- Toss in broccoli let everything simmer until tender about 15 minutes.
- Time to Blend
- Use an immersion blender or carefully transfer to your blender make it as smooth as you like.
- Make It Creamy
- Stir in milk cottage cheese and that sharp cheddar. Keep it gentle no boiling needed.
- Finish With Love
- Season it well top with extra cheese maybe some croutons or herbs.
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My Best Tips
Fresh broccoli really shines here but frozen works in a pinch. Always grate your own cheese it melts so much better. Keep the heat low once you add dairy and taste as you go for perfect seasoning.
Keep It Fresh
This soup stays good in the fridge for three days. Warm it up gently stirring often. Skip freezing this one dairy soups just don't thaw well.
Perfect Pairs
We love this with a crisp apple walnut salad or some roasted veggies on the side. Good whole grain bread makes it feel complete such a balanced meal.
The Protein Secret
That cottage cheese does something magical here. It makes everything creamy while boosting protein. Mixed with sharp cheddar you'd never know it was there but you get all the benefits.
Mix It Up
Need it gluten free? Any gluten free flour works. Regular paprika's fine if you don't have smoked. Got frozen broccoli? Perfect just toss it right in.
Pure Comfort
This soup hits all the right notes creamy cheesy and good for you too. It's become our favorite way to warm up on chilly days while getting that extra protein boost.
For The Little Ones
My kids love it when I blend it super smooth. Some fun toppings like extra cheese croutons or little bacon bits make it even more exciting for them.
More Veggie Power
Sometimes I sneak in carrots zucchini or cauliflower. They blend right in adding nutrition without changing that creamy texture we love.
Plan Ahead
Make a big batch on Sunday portion it out you've got lunch ready all week. Just warm it up gently and lunch is served.
Make It Your Own
Try a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne for extra warmth. A splash of white wine while cooking or fresh lemon at the end brightens everything up.
Complete The Meal
Serve it with crusty bread a hearty grain salad or your favorite sandwich. Even just some roasted vegetables on the side makes it feel complete.
Why Cottage Cheese Works
Cottage cheese is my secret weapon here. It brings all that protein and creaminess without anyone knowing it's there. Plus it blends perfectly with the cheddar.
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Add Some Crunch
Top each bowl with toasted nuts or crispy onions. That little bit of crunch makes each spoonful more interesting and looks pretty too.
Feed A Crowd
This recipe doubles easily just grab a bigger pot. Set up a toppings bar let everyone customize their bowl it's perfect for gatherings.
Perfect For Cold Days
When the weather turns chilly this soup really shines. Something about its creamy warmth just makes everything better perfect for cozy gatherings.
Better Than The Original
This version proves healthy can be delicious. It's got all the comfort of classic broccoli cheddar plus that protein boost making it even better than the original.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this gluten-free?
- Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with your preferred gluten-free flour blend. The rest of the recipe remains the same.
- → Why blend the cottage cheese?
- Blending cottage cheese creates a smooth, creamy texture while adding protein. It integrates better into the soup when blended.
- → How do I prevent the milk from curdling?
- Keep the heat low when adding dairy and avoid boiling. Stir constantly and heat gently until cheese is melted.
- → Can I make the soup thicker?
- Start with 3 cups of broth instead of 4. You can always thin it out later with more broth if needed.
- → What's the best way to blend hot soup?
- Either blend one cup in a regular blender with the vent open for steam, or use an immersion blender directly in the pot for easier handling.