Super Cheesy High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Creamy, comforting soups that pack a hearty protein punch always hit the spot, especially when they feature a delicious high-protein broccoli cheddar soup recipe.

This classic comfort dish reimagines traditional soup with a nutritious twist that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Tender broccoli florets swim in a velvety cheese base, creating a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.

Robust cheddar brings depth and richness to every spoonful, while added protein ensures you stay full and energized.

The blend of crisp vegetables and smooth cheese creates a harmony of textures that dance across your palate.

Each serving delivers a perfect balance of wholesome ingredients and indulgent taste.

Prepare to savor a soup that nourishes and delights with every delectable bite.

What Goes Well With Cheddar Broccoli Soup

• Pair with Crusty Sourdough: Slice thick, rustic sourdough bread to dip into the creamy, cheesy soup, absorbing all the rich flavors and adding a tangy contrast.
• Match with Crisp White Wine: Select a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, whose bright acidity cuts through the soup's richness and cleanses the palate.
• Complement with Herb-Roasted Chicken Salad: Create a light side dish featuring grilled chicken, mixed greens, and fresh herbs to balance the soup's creamy texture and provide additional protein.
• Serve with Craft Beer Pairing: Choose a hoppy IPA or a smooth amber ale that can stand up to the soup's bold cheddar flavor and provide a refreshing counterpoint.

How to Store Broccoli Cheddar Soup Fresh

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Cool the soup completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving 1-inch space for expansion. Freeze for 2-3 months. Avoid freezing dairy-based soups for best texture.
• Warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or water to restore original consistency if soup thickens.
• Place soup in microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals. Stir between intervals to distribute heat evenly and prevent scorching.

FAQs

• Is this soup nutritious?

Yes, it’s packed with protein from cheese and optional bacon, plus vitamins from broccoli, carrots, and other vegetables, making it a nutrient-dense meal.

• Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The cheese provides protein and flavor.

• How can I boost the protein content?

Add cooked chicken, use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, or sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top to increase protein levels.

• Is this soup gluten-free?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your broth and cheese are certified gluten-free if you have celiac concerns.

Why High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Shines Bright

• Quick Veggie Power Boost: Pack a nutritional punch with zucchini and potato, creating a delicious way to sneak extra vegetables into meals for picky eaters.
• Foolproof Crowd-Pleaser: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make these muffins perfect for beginner cooks, guaranteed to impress family and friends with minimal kitchen skills.
• Versatile Meal Companion: Enjoy as a breakfast side, afternoon snack, or party appetizer that complements various dishes and suits multiple dining occasions from casual gatherings to potlucks.
• Zero-Waste Kitchen Hack: Transform leftover vegetables into a crispy, cheesy treat that reduces food waste while delivering maximum flavor and satisfying texture.

What Goes In Broccoli Cheddar Soup Bowls

• Potatoes: Starchy vegetables that provide a creamy base and hearty texture to the soup.
• Broccoli: Nutritious green vegetable that adds flavor and health benefits to the recipe.
• Onion: Aromatic ingredient that builds a rich, savory foundation for the soup.
• Broth: Liquid base that adds depth and helps cook the vegetables.

• Thyme: Herb that brings an earthy and slightly minty flavor to the soup.
• Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Smoked Paprika: Optional spice that adds a subtle smoky dimension to the soup.

• Heavy Cream, Half-and-Half: Dairy components that create a rich and creamy texture.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp and flavorful cheese that melts smoothly into the soup.
• Carrots, Garlic: Supporting vegetables that contribute additional flavor and nutrition.
• Bacon Bits, Green Onions: Optional garnishes that provide extra crunch and freshness.

Cooking Steps for Protein-Packed Soup

Step 1: Toss Everything Into Slow Cooker

• Potatoes
• Broccoli florets
• Onion
• Carrots
• Garlic
• Vegetable or chicken broth
• Fresh thyme
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Smoked paprika (optional)

Stir the ingredients to ensure even distribution and create a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 2: Let Slow Cooker Work Its Magic

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat for 6-7 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours. During this time, the ingredients will simmer and soften, developing rich, deep flavors.

The vegetables will become tender and release their natural goodness into the broth.

Step 3: Transform Soup Texture

Use an immersion blender to transform the soup’s consistency.

You can create a partially chunky texture or blend until completely smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer portions to a standard blender, then return to the slow cooker.

This step helps create a creamy, unified soup base.

Step 4: Enrich with Dairy and Cheese

Introduce heavy cream or half-and-half into the soup.

Sprinkle in shredded cheddar cheese and stir until completely melted. The dairy will add luxurious creaminess and the cheese will provide a sharp, tangy flavor that elevates the entire dish.

Step 5: Plate and Personalize

• Crispy bacon bits
• Chopped green onions
• Extra cheese shreds

Serve immediately and enjoy your protein-packed, comforting meal.

Helpful Notes for Cheddar Broccoli Soup Success

• Add cooked chicken, turkey, or white beans to increase the protein content without changing the soup's creamy texture.
• Use an immersion blender for easier cleanup and smoother blending, avoiding transferring hot soup between containers.
• Swap heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of cheddar for a vegan-friendly version.
• Choose low-sodium broth and control salt levels by adding gradually while tasting the soup.
• Leave some vegetable chunks for a rustic feel or blend completely smooth based on personal preference.

Creative Ways to Change Up This Soup

• Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of cheddar cheese for a vegan-friendly version.
• Protein Power Boost: Swap potatoes with cooked chicken or turkey, adding extra lean protein to the soup.
• Vegetable Medley: Substitute broccoli with cauliflower or mix both vegetables for a different nutrient profile and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free certified and use cornstarch as a thickener if needed.

High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

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4.8 from 28 reviews

• Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comforting high-protein broccoli cheddar soup delivers creamy goodness packed with nutrition and flavor. Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a nourishing meal you’ll crave on chilly days.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 pound potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and diced
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Optional Garnishes:

• Crispy bacon bits
• Green onions
• Extra cheese

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Instructions

1. Combine potatoes, broccoli, onion, carrots, garlic, broth, thyme, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika in the slow cooker, creating a flavorful vegetable base.
2. Cover and slow cook at low temperature for 6-7 hours or high temperature for 3-4 hours, allowing vegetables to become tender and infuse their flavors.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup, adjusting the consistency to personal preference – either leaving some vegetable chunks or creating a completely smooth texture.
4. If an immersion blender is unavailable, carefully transfer soup portions to a standard blender, process, and return to the slow cooker.
5. Incorporate heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the soup becomes creamy and the cheese fully melts into the mixture.
6. Transfer the hot soup into serving bowls, enhancing presentation with optional garnishes like crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, or additional cheese sprinkles.

Notes

• Ensure vegetables are chopped uniformly for consistent cooking and texture throughout the soup.
• Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more intense, rich flavor profile that enhances the overall taste.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or low-fat milk to reduce calories while maintaining creaminess.
• Consider adding protein-packed ingredients like cooked shredded chicken or white beans to boost nutritional value and make the soup more filling.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 hours (on Low) or 4 hours (on High)
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 360 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Fat: 26 g
• Saturated Fat: 16 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 19 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg