Introduction
Nothing warms the soul on a chilly day like a hearty bowl of soup. This Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not only comforting but also loaded with nutrition.
With vibrant broccoli and rich cheddar, this soup delivers both flavor and health benefits, thanks to its generous protein content. It's perfect for a cozy dinner or a healthy lunch.
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
Broccoli is the star of this soup, packed with vitamin C and fiber while adding a beautiful green color. Its slightly bitter taste mellows when cooked, creating a delightful balance with the cheddar. - 1 tablespoon olive oil
Olive oil serves as the base fat for sautéing vegetables, enhancing flavor and texture. It's rich in healthy fats and adds a touch of nuttiness. - 1 small onion, diced
Onions provide a savory foundation to the soup, contributing sweetness and depth of flavor as they cook down. They also contain antioxidants that benefit overall health. - 2 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic adds a layer of rich flavor that complements the cheddar and broccoli beautifully. It also has numerous health benefits, including immune support. - 4 cups vegetable broth
Vegetable broth forms the soup's base, providing moisture and enhancing flavor. You can opt for low-sodium varieties for better control over salt content. - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Cheddar cheese lends a creamy texture and a sharp, tangy flavor to the soup. It also boosts the protein content, making the soup more filling. - 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
Adding shredded chicken increases the protein quotient significantly and makes the soup heartier. This addition keeps you satisfied longer. - 1 cup milk (or plant-based alternative)
Milk enhances creaminess and adds a velvety mouthfeel to the soup. It's also a great source of calcium and vitamin D. - Salt and pepper, to taste
Simple seasoning with salt and pepper elevates the flavors in the soup, allowing the natural tastes of the ingredients to shine. - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness that deepens the flavor profile. It's an excellent way to introduce complexity without overpowering the dish.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Start by heating the olive oil, which will provide a rich base for sweating the aromatics. Use a pot with a heavy bottom to distribute heat evenly and prevent scorching. The oil should shimmer but not smoke, indicating it's at the right temperature.
Step 2: Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cooking the onion until translucent softens its crispness while releasing its natural sugars. This step builds the foundational flavor of the soup. Stir occasionally, ensuring even cooking and preventing browning.
Step 3: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Adding garlic at this stage releases its potent aroma and flavor. It's essential to cook it only briefly, as burnt garlic can introduce bitterness to the dish. Stir consistently to keep it from sticking to the pot.
Step 4: Add broccoli florets and broth, then bring to a boil.
Introducing broccoli at this point allows it to soften, contributing nutrients and flavor to the broth. Once you bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer to let the flavors meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
Step 5: Simmer until broccoli is tender, about 10–15 minutes.
Simmering the broccoli until it's tender ensures that it blends well when pureed. Keeping the lid on during this time helps steam the broccoli, maintaining bright color and maximizing nutrient preservation.
Step 6: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
Pureeing the soup gives it a luxurious, creamy texture without using excessive cream. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a standard blender in batches. Just be cautious of the hot liquid.
Step 7: Stir in shredded chicken and milk, mixing well.
Incorporating shredded chicken boosts the soup's protein content and makes it more filling. Adding milk at this juncture helps to create a smooth, creamy consistency. Stir vigorously to combine and heat through.
Step 8: Add cheddar cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir until cheese is melted.
This is the stage where the soup transforms into a luxuriously creamy concoction. Cheese should be added gradually, stirring continuously, so it fully melts and incorporates without clumping.
Step 9: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Tasting the soup is crucial to ensure that the flavors are balanced. Adjust the salt, pepper, or paprika according to your palate, maximizing enjoyment. Remember that the flavors will develop further as the soup sits.
Step 10: Serve hot, garnished with extra cheddar if desired.
Serving the soup hot ensures that each bowl is comforting and satisfying. A sprinkle of extra cheddar on top enhances the visual appeal and adds a final touch of cheesy flavor. Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Elevate Your Soup with Fresh Herbs
To add a fresh twist to your Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup, consider garnishing with freshly chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or dill. These herbs not only enhance the visual appeal but also introduce bright flavors that contrast beautifully with the richness of the cheese and cream.
Exploring Variations for a Unique Flavor
You can personalize your soup with various add-ins. Think of experimenting with spices like cayenne for heat or lemon zest for brightness. Swapping out broccoli for other greens like kale or spinach can also provide a delicious variation while maintaining the nutritious profile.
Pairing Suggestions for an Inviting Meal
This Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup pairs wonderfully with a side of toasted baguette or a fresh garden salad. The crunchiness of the bread complements the creamy soup, while a salad adds freshness and texture, making for a balanced and satisfying meal.
FAQs
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If your soup is too thick, simply stir in additional broth or milk until the desired consistency is reached. Heat for a couple of minutes to ensure everything is well combined.
Can I make this soup without chicken?
Absolutely! Just omit the chicken, and you can enhance the protein with extra cheese or include legumes like white beans for a plant-based option.
How can I make the flavor more robust?
To boost the flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. Both will enhance the overall taste profile.
What can I do if the soup turns out bland?
If the soup lacks flavor, adding more salt, a squeeze of lemon, or additional spices like smoked paprika or cayenne can elevate its taste significantly.
Can this soup be scaled for a larger crowd?
Yes, simply multiply the ingredient quantities accordingly, keeping the same cooking times in mind. It’s perfect for gatherings.
What if I want a chunkier texture?
For a chunkier soup, reserve some broccoli florets before pureeing and add them back in afterward. This provides both texture and visual appeal.
Conclusion
Enjoying a bowl of this Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful way to nourish your body while savoring rich flavors. It embodies comfort food at its finest.
As you experiment with ingredients and variations, you'll find your perfect version of this soup. Share it with family and friends for a warming meal they'll love.
Recipe Card
Delicious Cheesy Spinach & Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Clean the mushrooms and remove stems. Set aside caps, and finely chop stems.
- In a skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add chopped spinach, artichokes, and chopped mushroom stems to the skillet. Cook until spinach wilts.
- In a bowl, combine the sautéed mixture with cream cheese, Parmesan, mozzarella, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each mushroom cap generously with the cheese and spinach mixture.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and tops are golden.
- Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
