High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Creamy & Hearty (Print Version)

High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Enjoy a creamy, hearty bowl thats easy to make. Boost your protein and flavor with this family favorite!

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: High-Protein

# Ingredients:

→ Base Ingredients

01 - 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
02 - 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth, low-sodium)
03 - 2 cups whole milk (or 2% milk)
04 - 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced

→ Protein & Cheese

06 - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
07 - 1.5 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed (or 1 can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained)

→ Thickener & Seasoning

08 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
09 - 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
10 - 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
11 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly cracked, or to taste)

→ Optional Garnishes

12 - Extra shredded cheddar cheese
13 - Fresh chives, chopped
14 - Croutons
15 - Dash of hot sauce

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, get a nice big pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Melt a couple tablespoons of butter, then toss in your chopped onion. Stir it around until it softens and turns translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Oh, the smell! It’s the start of something wonderful. This is where I sometimes get distracted and let the onions get a little too brown, but a gentle sauté is what we’re after for this <strong>High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup</strong>. After the onion is soft, add your minced garlic and cook for just another minute until fragrant. Don't let it burn!
02 - Now, push the onions and garlic to one side and melt another tablespoon of butter. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk it continuously for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a pale, golden paste. This is your roux, the thickening magic! I remember rushing this step once, and my soup ended up with raw flour clumps – oops! Keep whisking until it smells a little nutty. This creamy base is crucial for our <strong>High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup</strong>.
03 - Slowly, ever so slowly, pour in the chicken (or vegetable) broth while whisking like crazy. This prevents lumps, I promise! Once that's smooth, gradually add the milk, still whisking. Bring it to a gentle simmer, letting it thicken slightly. It should start to feel velvety. This is where the magic begins; you'll see it transform from thin liquid to a promising soup base. Don't let it boil vigorously, just a happy simmer.
04 - Now for the star! Add your chopped broccoli florets to the simmering liquid. Cook them until they're tender-crisp, about 5-8 minutes. We want them cooked through but not mushy, you know? I like a little bite to my broccoli, but if you prefer it softer, cook it a bit longer. This makes sure our <strong>High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup</strong> has great texture.
05 - Reduce the heat to low, then gradually stir in your freshly grated cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, until it's completely melted and smooth. Don't add it all at once or it might clump! This is where the soup truly becomes "cheddar." Once the cheese is incorporated, stir in your cooked protein (chicken or beans). This is what makes it a filling <strong>High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup</strong>! Taste and adjust seasonings – salt, pepper, maybe a little more if it needs it.
06 - Once everything is combined and heated through, your <strong>High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup</strong> is ready! It should be creamy, thick, and wonderfully cheesy. Ladle it into bowls. The aroma alone is enough to make your stomach rumble. I love serving it with some crusty bread for dipping, or a sprinkle of extra cheese and a dash of hot sauce if I'm feeling spicy. Enjoy that warm, comforting hug in a bowl!

# Notes:

01 - Always grate your own cheese fresh; pre-shredded can make your soup grainy.
02 - Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent separation, stirring occasionally.
03 - If your soup is too thick, thin with a splash of warm broth or milk, a tablespoon at a time.
04 - Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping-it's my favorite way to enjoy it!

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Large pot or Dutch oven
02 - whisk
03 - cutting board
04 - knife
05 - cheese grater

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: Approx. 350-450
Total Fat: Approx. 20-30g
Total Carbohydrate: Approx. 20-25g
Protein: Approx. 25-35g

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