High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

If you’re craving a warm, hearty bowl of comfort with a nutritious twist, this High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is exactly what you need. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with that signature broccoli flavor we all know and love—but with a healthy protein boost that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. Whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy lunch, a light dinner, or a satisfying snack, this soup is the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition. Trust me, once you’ve had a spoonful, you’ll be hooked! So grab your favorite bowl and get ready for a cheesy, creamy, protein-packed treat.

Why You’ll Love High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This isn’t your average broccoli cheddar soup—this version is packed with extra protein, making it a meal that keeps you full and energized without sacrificing any of the comfort. Here’s why it’ll become your go-to recipe:

• High-Protein: Packed with healthy protein from sources like Greek yogurt and chicken (or plant-based options), this soup will keep you feeling full and satisfied without the usual crash.
• Creamy and Cheesy: What’s not to love about a bowl of creamy, cheesy soup? The smooth texture and rich cheddar flavor will make this soup feel indulgent, yet it’s packed with nourishing ingredients.
• Nutritious: Broccoli is a powerhouse veggie full of vitamins and fiber, and paired with protein-rich ingredients, this soup makes for a balanced, hearty meal.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe doesn’t require hours of simmering. In about 30 minutes, you can have a flavorful, filling bowl of soup ready to enjoy.
• Customizable: Add extra veggies like cauliflower or carrots, or toss in some spices if you like a little extra heat. It’s a recipe that’s easy to tweak to your personal taste.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy, high-protein broccoli cheddar soup:

• Broccoli: Fresh or frozen broccoli will work here. It’s the star of the soup, providing that fresh, earthy flavor.
• Chicken or Plant-Based Protein: You can add cooked chicken breast for extra protein or use plant-based protein like lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian or vegan option.
• Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and a protein boost, making the soup smooth and rich without the need for heavy cream.
• Cheddar Cheese: You can’t have broccoli cheddar soup without cheese! A good sharp cheddar is best for flavor, but feel free to use any cheese you like.
• Onion and Garlic: For flavor depth. These two ingredients really bring out the savory notes of the soup.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth: For the base of your soup. It helps make the soup flavorful and soupy without being too thick.
• Olive Oil or Butter: To sauté the onions and garlic, adding a richness to the soup.
• Salt and Pepper: For seasoning. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Optional: A squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of nutmeg to brighten the flavors at the end.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to cook up this delicious, high-protein broccoli cheddar soup. Here’s how:

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for about 3-5 minutes until softened and fragrant. This is the foundation for your soup’s flavor.

2. Cook the Broccoli:

Add the chopped broccoli to the pot, stirring it with the onions and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli begins to soften. If you’re using fresh broccoli, you can add a little splash of broth to help it steam.

3. Add the Broth and Protein:

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer. If you’re using chicken breast or another protein, add it now. Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the protein is heated through.

4. Blend the Soup:

Once the broccoli is tender, you can blend the soup to your desired texture. For a creamy soup, use an immersion blender to purée everything directly in the pot. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can blend just half of the mixture, leaving some broccoli bits intact.

5. Add Greek Yogurt and Cheese:

Stir in the Greek yogurt and shredded cheddar cheese, then cook over low heat until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and any optional spices like red pepper flakes or nutmeg.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Once the soup is hot, ladle it into bowls and serve immediately. You can top it with extra cheese, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for extra flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 320
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total Carbohydrates: 18g
Dietary Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 7g
Protein: 25g
Vitamin D: 15mcg
Calcium: 400mg
Iron: 2mg
Potassium: 650mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This soup is incredibly versatile and can be paired with many different sides. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• With Crusty Bread: A warm slice of crusty bread, garlic bread, or a toasted baguette is the perfect accompaniment to this rich and creamy soup. Use it to soak up every last drop!
• With a Fresh Salad: A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the soup. Try a simple arugula salad with lemon and olive oil.
• Topped with Bacon or Ham: For an extra savory touch, crumble some crispy bacon or add diced ham on top of the soup before serving.
• Add Extra Veggies: Serve the soup with a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or a simple green veggie like asparagus.

Additional Tips

• Make Ahead: You can make this soup in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even better on day two.
• Vegan Option: For a plant-based version, swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu, use plant-based yogurt, and opt for vegan cheese.
• Thicken It Up: If you want a thicker soup, blend more of the broccoli or add a little cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to the soup as it simmers.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli for this soup?
A1: Yes! Frozen broccoli works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup.

Q2: Can I make this soup without Greek yogurt?
A2: Absolutely! You can substitute Greek yogurt with heavy cream, sour cream, or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a creamy base.

Q3: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A3: Yes! While cheddar is traditional, you can use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a sharp white cheddar for a slightly different flavor profile.

Q4: Can I freeze this soup?
A4: Yes, you can freeze the soup. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat on the stove and add a little extra broth if needed to thin it out.

Q5: How can I make this soup spicier?
A5: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a little kick.

Q6: Can I use plant-based protein instead of chicken?
A6: Yes! You can substitute chicken with plant-based protein like lentils, chickpeas, or even tofu for a vegetarian or vegan version of this soup.

Q7: Can I add more veggies to this soup?
A7: Definitely! You can add extra veggies like carrots, cauliflower, or even spinach to bulk up the soup and add more flavor.

Q8: How do I store leftovers?
A8: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Q9: Can I use a regular blender instead of an immersion blender?
A9: Yes! You can use a regular blender to purée the soup, just be sure to let it cool slightly before blending to avoid splattering.

Q10: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A10: Yes! This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and it also reheats beautifully.

Conclusion

This High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food with a healthy twist. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with protein, making it a satisfying meal that you can feel good about. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or as a cozy snack, this soup will hit the spot every time. Enjoy the warmth and richness in every bite, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones—they’ll love it too!

Print