High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Healthy Comfort (Print Version)
Creamy high protein broccoli cheddar soup offers a healthy, satisfying meal. Packed with nutrients, this comforting recipe is perfect for a quick, wholesome dinner.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ Aromatic Foundation
01 -
1 tbsp olive oil
02 -
1 cup yellow onion, diced
03 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Hearty Veggies & Protein Power
04 -
4 cups broccoli florets, chopped (about 1 lb)
05 -
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
06 -
1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
→ Creamy Cheddar Embrace
07 -
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
08 -
2 cups 2% milk
09 -
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
10 -
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
→ Seasoning & Finishing Touches
11 -
1/2 tsp dried mustard powder
12 -
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
13 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 cup diced yellow onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This builds the aromatic foundation for your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup | Comforting & Healthy.
02 -
Add 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth and 4 cups chopped broccoli florets to the pot. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp. Do not overcook the broccoli at this stage.
03 -
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups 2% milk and 1/4 cup all-purpose flour until smooth and no lumps remain. This mixture will create the creamy, thick base for your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup | Comforting & Healthy, ensuring a velvety texture.
04 -
Gradually pour the milk and flour mixture into the simmering soup, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the soup begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes. Ensure the soup is gently bubbling, not boiling vigorously.
05 -
Reduce heat to low. Stir in 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1/2 tsp dried mustard powder, and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Do not boil after adding cheese.
06 -
Gently fold in 1 cup shredded cooked chicken breast. Season your High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup | Comforting & Healthy generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Heat through for 2-3 minutes without boiling, just until the chicken is warmed through.
07 -
Ladle the comforting and healthy soup into bowls. Garnish with extra cheese, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately and savor this hearty and nutritious High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup | Comforting & Healthy.
# Notes:
01 -
For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. You can add a can of drained cannellini beans for extra protein.
02 -
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if too thick.
03 -
This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty whole-grain bread or a simple side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
04 -
For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup after the broccoli is cooked but before adding the cheese, leaving some broccoli chunks for texture.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot or Dutch oven
02 -
Whisk
03 -
Measuring cups and spoons
04 -
Cutting board
05 -
Chef's knife
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 492 kcal
Total Fat: 27 g
Total Carbohydrate: 27 g
Protein: 35 g