As soon as the weather turns crisp and the leaves start crunching underfoot, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm, creamy bowl of soup. This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is one of those go-to recipes that feels indulgent but it’s secretly packed with nourishing ingredients and protein to keep you feeling full and energized. Inspired by a chilly evening spent curled up with a blanket and a bowl of something warm, this recipe brings back memories of family dinners, laughter, and fall’s earthy scent in the air.
It’s no surprise this soup has become a reader favorite. It blends the velvety richness of cheddar with the vibrant freshness of broccoli plus, it sneaks in extra protein without changing the classic taste you love. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving it with crusty bread on a Sunday night, this dish checks every box for flavor, comfort, and nutrition.
If you’re a fan of hearty soups like this, you might also enjoy our Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe or the incredibly creamy Velveeta Broccoli Cheese Soup for another cozy option.
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High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is warm, creamy, and secretly packed with nourishing protein from Greek yogurt and cottage cheese to optional collagen. A cozy favorite for fall nights.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 cups milk (any kind)
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cottage cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 scoop unflavored protein powder (collagen or plant-based)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add broccoli and broth. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until broccoli is tender.
- Use an immersion blender or standard blender to puree the soup to desired consistency.
- Return soup to pot. Stir in milk, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and shredded cheddar. Cook on low until smooth and creamy. Add protein powder if using.
- Season with salt and pepper. Optional: add a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika for extra flavor. Serve warm with toppings if desired.
Notes
Blending the soup is key for creaminess. Add white beans, quinoa, or shredded chicken to bulk it up. Vegan swaps: plant-based milk, cheese, and protein like tofu or beans.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup at home:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 cups milk (any kind, including unsweetened almond or oat)
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cottage cheese (for a protein boost)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 scoop unflavored protein powder (collagen or plant-based)
This combination provides a rich and cheesy flavor while sneaking in extra protein from both the Greek yogurt and cottage cheese. If you’re looking for a low-carb version, this soup pairs well with roasted veggies or a crisp salad like our Strawberry Spinach Salad.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and stir for another 30 seconds.
2. Cook the broccoli
Add broccoli florets and pour in the broth. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until broccoli is tender. You can cover the pot for faster cooking.
3. Blend until smooth
Use an immersion blender directly in the pot, or transfer the mixture to a blender in batches. Blend until you reach your desired consistency—smooth or slightly chunky.
4. Stir in dairy & protein
Return the soup to the pot. Stir in the milk, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and cheddar. Cook over low heat until everything is melted and creamy. Add protein powder if using.
5. Season to taste
Add salt and pepper. For more depth, toss in a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika.
Serve warm and garnish with extra cheddar or roasted broccoli bits if desired. For a full meal, try pairing it with something crunchy like Crispy Rice Salad or toast up sourdough from our Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Bread.
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip the blend: Blending the soup is key to that velvety, creamy texture. An immersion blender makes this super easy.
- Balance flavors: Cottage cheese adds protein but has a mild tang. If that’s not your thing, increase the cheddar a bit or add a spoon of nutritional yeast.
- Add bulk: Stir in cooked quinoa, white beans, or shredded chicken for an even heartier version.
Looking for more flexible soup recipes? Our Weight Watchers Soup Recipes offer similar warmth without overloading on calories.
Variations & Customizations
- Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. No flour or thickeners needed.
- Vegan-friendly: Replace milk with oat or soy milk, cheddar with vegan cheese, and skip yogurt. Blend in white beans or tofu for protein.
- Extra veggie: Add cauliflower, spinach, or peas to the mix.
- Spice it up: A dash of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes gives it a little kick.
If you’re interested in more seasonal veggie soups, try our cozy Asparagus Soup Recipe or a unique twist like Cabbage Fat Burning Soup.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or microwave in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between.
Planning a busy week? This soup reheats beautifully and pairs with salads like our Mexican Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing or sandwiches for a quick, balanced meal.
Conclusion
This High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is everything we crave in a fall comfort dish warm, creamy, and incredibly satisfying. And thanks to its protein-packed ingredients, it works just as well for lunch meal prep as it does for a comforting dinner. With simple ingredients, quick prep, and the kind of cozy flavor that makes you pause and smile, this soup is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.