Broccoli Cheddar Soup High Protein is more than a comforting bowl. It’s also a weeknight solution that blends indulgent creaminess with real nutrition. As a chef who designs meals for busy households and professionals, I’ve learned this. Great flavor comes together quickly with smart swaps and pantry staples. This recipe uses Greek yogurt and milk to boost protein while keeping the velvet texture. It’s naturally vegetarian, quick on the stove, and easily adaptable for dairy-free options with coconut yogurt. I want to help you fuel workouts and satisfy cravings. I still feel nourished at the end of a busy day. Let’s dive in and make weeknights brighter.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
what make this Recipe special
As a busy home cook, Broccoli Cheddar Soup High Protein is my go-to for weeknights. It feels like a warm hug that also fuels my workouts and a jam-packed schedule. I love how this creamy soup sneaks in protein with Greek yogurt and milk, not heavy cream. It proves you can have comfort and nutrition in one pot, fast.
Overview of what makes it stand out
This creamy soup blends comfort and protein for busy days. It’s weeknight-friendly and one-pot, so cleanup stays simple. Greek yogurt and milk deliver protein without dulling the velvety texture. It’s naturally vegetarian and adaptable for dairy-free kitchens with coconut yogurt. This is a practical embodiment of Broccoli Cheddar Soup High Protein.
Ingredients
Here’s the ingredient snapshot I keep on hand for Broccoli Cheddar Soup High Protein.
Exact measurements appear at the bottom of the article for printing.
Ingredient Snapshot
- 2 tbsp olive oil — for sautéing aromatics and flavor.
- 1 small onion, diced — adds sweetness and depth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced — brings aroma and kick.
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped — star veggie, vibrant and nutritious.
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth — base for simmering.
- 1 cup milk — creaminess and mild sweetness.
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt — boosts protein and tang.
- 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese — classic flavor and silkiness.
- 0.5 tsp salt — balances flavors.
- 0.25 tsp black pepper — gentle heat and depth.
- 0.25 tsp paprika — subtle smokiness.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water — slurry for thickening.
Optional or substitutions
- Extra 1/4 cup Greek yogurt for more protein.
- Low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt if preferred.
- Gluten-free broth to keep it gluten-free (and check cornstarch label).
- For dairy-free: coconut yogurt in place of Greek yogurt, and a plant-based milk.
- Boosters: a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- For thinner soup, add a little more broth; for thicker, use less.
Tip: exact quantities and printable recipe version are at the bottom of the article.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup High Protein
Here’s how I make this Broccoli Cheddar Soup High Protein come together quickly. I keep it simple and protein-packed so busy days stay tasty and nourishing.
Step 1 Sauté aromatics
In a large pot, I heat olive oil over medium heat. I add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant, building the flavor base.
Step 2 Add garlic and broccoli
I stir in minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add broccoli and broth. I bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer 10–12 minutes until broccoli is tender.
Step 3 Partial texture control
Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until mostly smooth, leaving some texture if you like a rustic, creamy-but-not-mmooth mouthfeel. If you don’t have an immersion blender, blend in batches carefully in a regular blender.
Step 4 Stir in dairy and season
Return the soup to a gentle simmer and whisk in milk, Greek yogurt, salt, pepper, and paprika. The yogurt adds protein and tang while keeping the soup creamy—temper it slightly if you’re worried about curdling.
Step 5 Melt the cheese
Add the shredded cheddar in small portions, stirring until melted and silky. The cheese delivers the classic broccoli cheddar flavor with a protein-rich boost that keeps the soup satisfying.
Step 6 Thicken and finish
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed; if you want extra creaminess, whisk in another tablespoon of yogurt off the heat.
Step 7 Serve
Ladle into bowls and serve warm. The result is a velvety, comforting, protein-packed soup that pairs well with a simple salad or whole-grain bread.
Tips for Success
Quick wins
- Use an immersion blender to control texture and prevent over-pureeing today.
- Temper Greek yogurt by whisking in a ladle of hot broth before adding to the pot to avoid curdling.
- For dairy-free, swap to coconut yogurt and almond milk; add a touch more salt to balance flavors, too.
- Adjust thickness with broth or more cornstarch slurry as needed, gently.
- Stir in cheese off the heat to keep the creaminess intact; this helps Broccoli Cheddar Soup High Protein stay silky today.
Equipment Needed
Having these tools at the ready keeps weeknights flowing smoothly from stove to table.
Essential tools
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Immersion blender (or standard blender)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk and wooden spoon
- Ladle and bowls for serving
These essentials cover every step, from sauté to serve, every night, with comfort.
Variations
Flavor and diet twists
- Dairy-free version with coconut yogurt and plant milk. I swap in coconut yogurt and almond or coconut milk, keeping the creamy texture. This version still fits the Broccoli Cheddar Soup High Protein vibe for dairy-free days.
- Add diced cooked chicken for a protein boost (non-vegetarian). Fold in small cubes at the end for a heartier bowl that fuels busy days and workouts.
- Extra broccoli for more fiber and color. If you love vibrant greens, double the broccoli and enjoy the extra crunch alongside the velvety base.
- Spiced version with a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes. A touch of heat wakes the flavors without masking the cheddar’s richness; start small and adjust to your crowd.
- Swap cheddar for Gruyère for a deeper flavor. Gruyère brings a nutty, luxurious note that makes this soup feel a touch more special while staying comforting.
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheddar Soup High Protein
Benefits you’ll feel
I reach for this Broccoli Cheddar Soup High Protein on busy weeknights. It solves two problems at once: craving and nutrition. It comes together fast with pantry staples. It packs a protein punch with Greek yogurt and cheese. I love that the creamy texture feels indulgent without heavy cream. So I can fuel workouts and still slam the dinner bell with a smile. Plus, leftovers are easy to reheat, which means tomorrow’s lunches are practically decided.
Serving Suggestions
Plate it well
- Serve with a simple green salad and a slice of whole-grain bread
- Garnish with chives or paprika for color
- Pair with sparkling water or a light white wine for adults
- Ladle into warm bowls, and enjoy immediately
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup High Protein pairing keeps weeknights easy and cozy tonight.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup High Protein Meal-Prep Ideas
Make-Ahead and storage
When a busy week hits, I lean on batch-friendly methods that keep this Broccoli Cheddar Soup High Protein tasty and ready. These tips help me feed my family without last-minute chaos.
- This soup stores in the fridge up to 3 days and freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently on the stove, whisking in a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- For batch meal-prep, portion into grab-and-go containers and reheat as needed.
- Consider a printable version for quick reheating during busy weeks
FAQs
Common questions
Q: Can I make this dairy-free and still get protein?
A: Yes—this dairy-free option still delivers the Broccoli Cheddar Soup High Protein experience, with protein from coconut yogurt and plant milk.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes—refrigerate up to 3 days or freeze up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Q: Is this suitable for kids?
A: Yes, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup High Protein is kid-friendly, though you can adjust salt and paprika to suit your family’s taste.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Broccoli Cheddar Soup High Protein feels like a small victory after a long day. I savor its velvet creaminess, knowing protein from yogurt and cheese keeps me fueled without guilt. The aroma of sautéed onions and garlic spinning through the kitchen is my cue that dinner is nearly ready, even when time is short. I love how one pot, a few pantry staples, and a smile from my family make weeknights brighter. When I ladle a bowl, I’m reminded that nourishment can be cozy, practical, and delicious all at once. You deserve that same warm, satisfying scoop tonight.