Description
A creamy, comforting cottage cheese broccoli cheddar soup made without heavy cream. Blended cottage cheese creates a smooth, rich texture while boosting protein, making this soup a healthier twist on the classic broccoli cheddar favorite. Perfect for cozy lunches or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6):
For the Soup:
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Optional Add-Ins:
¼ cup grated Parmesan
Red pepper flakes for heat
Extra shredded cheddar for topping
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook Broccoli
Add broccoli and broth to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes, until broccoli is tender.
Step 3: Blend Cottage Cheese
In a blender or food processor, blend cottage cheese until completely smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Blend Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until mostly smooth (leave some texture if desired). Stir in blended cottage cheese.
Step 5: Add Cheddar
Lower heat and slowly add shredded cheddar, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra cheddar, Parmesan, or red pepper flakes.
Notes
• No Cream Needed: Cottage cheese replaces heavy cream for a lighter, high-protein soup
• Extra Smooth: Blend fully for a silky texture
• Slow Cooker Option: Cook broccoli, onion, garlic, and broth on LOW for 4–5 hours, then blend and add cheeses at the end
• Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup / Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop / Blended
- Cuisine: American
