🥣 High-Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
✅ Servings: 4
⏱️ Total Time: ~30 minutes
💪 Protein: ~25–30g per serving (varies by ingredients)
🧾 Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
1 ½ cups low-fat milk (or unsweetened almond milk)
1 cup plain Greek yogurt (adds protein and creaminess)
1 ½ cups reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella or part-skim cheese
1 scoop unflavored whey protein isolate (optional but boosts protein)
½ tsp salt, to taste
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp mustard powder (optional, enhances cheese flavor)
1 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot mixed with 2 tbsp cold water (optional, for thickening)
🔪 Instructions
Sauté aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
Cook the broccoli
Add broccoli and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until broccoli is soft.
Blend the soup (optional)
Use an immersion blender to blend partially or fully, depending on your preferred texture. Or transfer to a blender in batches.
Make it creamy
Lower the heat. Stir in milk and Greek yogurt until fully combined. Do not boil after adding dairy.
Add cheese
Gradually stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted and smooth.
Add protein boost
If using, dissolve whey protein in a small amount of warm broth or milk first, then stir into the soup to avoid clumping.
Adjust & thicken
Stir in mustard powder, salt, and pepper. If you prefer a thicker soup, add the cornstarch slurry and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Serve
Garnish with a little extra cheese, cracked pepper, or even roasted chickpeas or tofu croutons for more protein.
🧠 Tips for More Protein
Use bone broth instead of regular broth.
Add cubed grilled chicken or tofu to each bowl.
Stir in cooked lentils or white beans (blended in for a smooth version).
Would you like a vegan or low-carb/keto version too?