Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a lighter version of the classic comfort food, offering all the rich flavors you love with a healthier twist. This recipe uses wholesome ingredients like fresh vegetables, low-fat cottage cheese, and a modest amount of cheddar to create a creamy, satisfying soup without the guilt. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a comforting bowl of soup while keeping it light and nutritious. The addition of carrots, celery, and onions provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor, while the broccoli gives you a burst of color and essential nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a warming meal on a chilly day, this healthy broccoli cheddar soup is the perfect choice. It’s creamy, comforting, and incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to for those busy evenings when you crave something wholesome and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Lower in Fat and Calories

This healthy version of broccoli cheddar soup uses low-fat cottage cheese and a modest amount of cheddar, making it a lighter option without compromising on flavor.

2. Packed with Vegetables

Broccoli, carrots, and celery add nutritional value to the soup, boosting its fiber and vitamin content while keeping it hearty and filling.

3. Easy to Make

With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup is quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

4. Creamy Texture Without Heavy Cream

The soup achieves a velvety smooth texture by blending low-fat cottage cheese, offering creaminess without the need for heavy cream or excessive butter.

5. Gluten-Free Option

You can easily substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour to make this soup suitable for those following a gluten-free diet.

Ingredients

• Butter
• Yellow onion, diced
• Carrots, peeled and diced
• Celery, diced
• Garlic, minced
• All-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• Smoked paprika
• Vegetable broth (preferably not-chicken style)
• Fresh broccoli, chopped
• 1% milk
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Low-fat cottage cheese (blended)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

• Dairy-Free: Swap the cheddar cheese for a dairy-free cheese alternative and use non-dairy milk (such as almond or oat milk) to make the soup dairy-free.
• Vegan Version: For a vegan-friendly version, replace the butter with plant-based butter, use dairy-free cheese, and opt for a vegan-friendly milk.
• Add Protein: You can add cooked chicken, turkey, or even tofu to boost the protein content of the soup.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to heat things up.
• Extra Veggies: Feel free to throw in some extra vegetables like zucchini, cauliflower, or spinach for added nutrition.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion is translucent.

Step 2: Add Flour and Paprika

Stir in the flour and smoked paprika, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup and enhance the flavor.

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer

Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften further.

Step 4: Add Broccoli and Milk

Stir in the chopped broccoli and milk. Continue simmering the soup for another 10-12 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.

Step 5: Blend Cottage Cheese

In a separate blender, blend the low-fat cottage cheese until smooth. This will give the soup a creamy texture without adding too much fat. Once blended, add it to the soup and stir until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the soup, stirring until it melts and the soup becomes creamy. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 7: Serve

Once the soup is creamy and well-seasoned, serve it hot. You can enjoy it as is, or pair it with a slice of whole-grain bread or crackers for a satisfying meal.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Control the Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a bit more vegetable broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli will yield the best flavor and texture, but frozen broccoli can be used in a pinch.
• Blending Tip: Make sure to blend the cottage cheese thoroughly for a smooth texture—this will help the soup achieve its creamy consistency.
• Reheat Gently: When reheating the soup, do so over low heat to prevent the cheese from separating or becoming grainy.

How to Serve

This healthy broccoli cheddar soup can be served on its own as a satisfying meal or paired with a side of whole-grain bread or crackers. It’s also delicious when topped with extra shredded cheese, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, or even a dash of extra smoked paprika for added flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of broth or milk to restore its creaminess if necessary.

Freezing

This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the soup over low heat on the stovetop. Stir occasionally and add a splash of milk or broth if it becomes too thick during the reheating process.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or a sharp white cheddar for different flavor profiles.

2. Is this soup gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

3. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free cheese substitute and non-dairy milk, like almond or coconut milk, to make it dairy-free.

4. How can I make this soup spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to increase the heat level.

5. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but fresh broccoli will provide a better texture and flavor.

6. How do I make the soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, cook it for a little longer to allow it to reduce, or blend a portion of the soup for a creamier consistency.

7. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, you can add vegetables like cauliflower, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients.

8. How can I make this soup vegan?

For a vegan version, use plant-based butter, vegan cheese, and non-dairy milk, and substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth.

9. Can I add protein to the soup?

Yes, adding cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu would be a great way to increase the protein content of the soup.

10. Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just be sure to allow it to cool completely before freezing.

Conclusion

This Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a flavorful and nutritious twist on the classic recipe. With its creamy texture, vibrant vegetables, and lighter ingredients, it’s a delicious way to enjoy comfort food without the guilt. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this easy-to-make soup is sure to be a hit for those looking for a wholesome, satisfying meal. Whether you make it in advance, freeze it, or serve it fresh, it’s a versatile dish that will become a regular in your recipe rotation.

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