High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup: The Cozy Classic, Reimagined!

Introduction

There are few things as purely comforting as a bowl of creamy, cheesy broccoli cheddar soup. It’s the taste of pure nostalgia, a warm hug from the inside out. But what if you could have all that velvety, savory goodness in a version that’s not only incredibly easy to make on a busy weeknight but also packed with protein to keep you full and fueled? Well, you’ve found it! This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup delivers that rich, classic flavor you crave while being a genuinely healthy soup. It’s the perfect, delicious balance of wholesome nutrition and indulgent comfort, all made in one pot.

This soup is an absolute star all on its own, but it loves to be dressed up! For a truly decadent experience, serve it in a hollowed out bread bowl. For a lighter meal, enjoy it with a side of whole grain crackers or a simple green salad. It’s also fantastic poured over a baked potato or a bed of quinoa for an extra hearty and nutritious dinner.

Full Recipe: High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Here’s everything you need to make this nourishing and delicious soup.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups broccoli florets (from about 1 large head)
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained (our secret protein booster!)
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, full-fat recommended
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced carrots, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the broccoli florets and the broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, until the broccoli is very tender.
4. While the broccoli cooks, place the rinsed cannellini beans in a blender with about 1/2 cup of the hot broth from the pot. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
5. Once the broccoli is tender, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup directly in the pot. Aim for a texture that is mostly creamy but still has some small pieces of broccoli and carrot. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer about half the soup to a regular blender and blend before returning it to the pot.
6. Turn the heat down to low. Pour the pureed cannellini bean mixture into the soup and stir to combine.
7. Remove the pot from the heat completely. Gradually stir in the Greek yogurt and then the freshly grated cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth. Do not let the soup boil after adding the yogurt and cheese.
8. Stir in the Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately.

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories (per serving, estimated): Approximately 320-370 kcal

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This is one of the best easy soups for a weeknight, ready in about 30 minutes!
• Protein Packed: Thanks to Greek yogurt and cannellini beans, this soup is incredibly satisfying and a great choice for those looking for recetas fitness.
• Classic Comfort Flavor: You get all the rich, cheesy flavor of a traditional broccoli cheddar soup without any of the heaviness.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with fresh vegetables and pantry staples, it’s a healthy soup recipe you can feel great about serving.
• Smooth & Creamy Texture: The blending technique creates a perfectly velvety soup every single time.

This recipe uses a modern cooking technique to achieve its wonderful creaminess. Instead of a traditional flour and butter roux, we rely on pureed cannellini beans and Greek yogurt. This not only packs a serious protein punch but also keeps the soup gluten-free and lighter, all while creating a luxuriously smooth texture that makes this creamy broccoli cheddar soup irresistible.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve in a sourdough bread bowl for the ultimate comfort food experience.
• Top with crispy bacon bits, roasted chickpeas, or homemade croutons for a delicious crunch.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese and fresh chives.
• Pair with a crisp green salad for a perfectly balanced lunch or dinner.

Pro Tips for Success

• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your soup grainy. Grating a block of sharp cheddar yourself ensures the smoothest, meltiest result.
• Low Heat is Key: Never let the soup boil after adding the Greek yogurt and cheese. High heat can cause the dairy to curdle or separate. Removing the pot from the heat before stirring them in is the safest bet.
• Don’t Over-Blend: For the best texture, leave some small chunks of broccoli and carrot in the soup. It adds a lovely rustic feel.
• Use an Immersion Blender: This tool makes blending the soup so much easier and safer, with far less cleanup than a traditional blender.

Storage & Reheating

• Storage: Let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended as dairy-based soups can change texture upon thawing.
• Reheating: Reheat leftover soup gently in a saucepan over low heat. Stir frequently and do not let it come to a boil.

Closing Paragraph

I am so excited for you to try this amazing High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup! It’s proof that you can enjoy your favorite comfort foods in a way that truly nourishes your body. Feel free to play with the recipe, maybe add a little cayenne for a kick or stir in some different veggies. I know it will become a new favorite in your home.

If you make this recipe, please let me know how it turned out! I would love for you to leave a comment and a rating below.

🎀 Final Thoughts

This soup is my secret weapon for chilly days when I need something that feels both indulgent and good for me. It’s so creamy and satisfying, and knowing it’s packed with so much goodness makes every spoonful feel like a little act of self-care. I hope it brings as much warmth and joy to your table as it does to mine!