What goes in broccoli cheddar soup?

Broccoli cheddar soup typically includes chopped broccoli, carrots, onions, garlic, cheddar cheese, milk or cream, and a thickener like flour or cottage cheese. It's a flavorful blend of vegetables and dairy that results in a creamy, comforting soup.

Is broccoli cheddar soup actually healthy?

Yes, especially when made with lighter ingredients like low-fat milk and cottage cheese. It's rich in fiber, vitamins, and protein, making it a wholesome meal when prepared mindfully.

What thickens broccoli cheddar soup?

Common thickeners include flour, cornstarch, or blended cottage cheese. These help create a creamy, rich texture without needing heavy cream.

What is the healthiest soup you can eat?

Soups made with lots of vegetables, lean proteins, and minimal cream, like lentil soup, vegetable minestrone, or high-protein broccoli cheddar soup, are among the healthiest.

What spices go well with broccoli?

Spices like garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, nutmeg, and thyme complement broccoli beautifully, enhancing its natural flavor without overpowering it.

High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Easy, Healthy Recipes

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon butter

1 large yellow onion, diced

2 large carrots, peeled and diced

1 stalk celery, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup flour (or gluten-free flour)

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

3 cups vegetable broth

4 cups chopped broccoli

2 cups 1% milk

4 oz shredded cheddar cheese (about 1 cup)

1 cup blended low-fat cottage cheese

Salt & pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Add garlic and spices: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add smoked paprika and flour, stirring to coat the vegetables evenly and cook for another minute.
Simmer with broth and broccoli: Pour in vegetable broth and add chopped broccoli. Bring to a simmer and cook for 8–9 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Add milk and cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in the milk. Warm the mixture without bringing it to a boil. Then add the blended cottage cheese and shredded cheddar. Stir until melted and smooth.
Blend for desired texture: For a creamier soup, blend one cup of the soup and return it to the pot. Alternatively, leave it chunky for texture. Serve hot with optional toppings like extra cheese or herbs.

Notes

To make it gluten-free, use GF flour or cornstarch. For a vegan option, use vegan cheese, plant milk, and silken tofu instead of cottage cheese. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad.

Author: Isabella Moreno
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 220
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 480mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 16g
Cholesterol: 25mg