If you are looking for a comforting, hearty, and wholesome soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, then this Tasty Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Cottage Cheese Recipe is your new best friend. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with vibrant veggies, this soup perfectly balances the mild tang of cottage cheese with sharp cheddar and the bright freshness of broccoli. It’s a delightful twist on the classic broccoli cheddar soup that brings an extra protein boost and velvety texture from the cottage cheese, making it super satisfying without being heavy. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or wanting something soothing on a chilly day, this recipe delivers big on flavor and comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Tasty Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Cottage Cheese Recipe has a crucial role to play, combining to create a soup that’s rich in flavor, texture, and color. The fresh vegetables bring natural sweetness and crunch, the cheeses lend creaminess and depth, and the spices tie everything together beautifully.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Acts as a thickening agent to give the soup its perfect creamy consistency.
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables for a flavorful base.
- Black pepper (freshly ground, to taste): Enhances the overall flavor with a gentle spicy kick.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the soup with warm, aromatic undertones.
- 1 celery stalk (diced): Provides subtle, herbaceous crunch and depth.
- 4 cups broccoli (cut into florets): The star ingredient, delivering freshness, nutrients, and that classic broccoli flavor.
- Salt (to taste): Balances and elevates all the flavors.
- 3 cups vegetable broth: Creates the flavorful liquid base that brings everything together.
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese (blended smooth): Adds creamy texture and a mild tang that complements the cheddar perfectly.
- 4 oz cheddar cheese (shredded): Brings sharpness and a luscious cheesy richness.
- 1 large yellow onion (diced): Adds sweetness and complexity.
- 2 large carrots (sliced): Sweetness and a pop of color that makes the soup visually inviting.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Introduces warming depth and a subtle smoky note.
- 2 cups 1% milk: Keeps the soup creamy without too much heaviness.
How to Make Tasty Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Cottage Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies
Start by melting your butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced yellow onion, minced garlic, and celery. Sauté these until they soften and become fragrant, about 5 minutes. This step is essential because it releases the natural sweetness and foundational flavor that other ingredients will build upon. Then, toss in the carrots and broccoli florets, stirring everything together so the veggies start to get cozy and mingle with the aromatics.
Step 2: Make a Roux and Add Liquids
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the veggies and stir well to coat everything. Keep stirring for about a minute to cook out the raw flour taste. This roux will be the magic behind your soup’s creamy texture. Slowly pour in the vegetable broth and 1% milk while continuously stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer; the liquid will begin to thicken nicely, embracing all those vibrant veggies for a creamy, velvety experience.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
Add salt, freshly ground black pepper, and smoked paprika at this stage. These simple spices work wonders in rounding out the flavors, giving the soup its warm and inviting personality. Let the soup simmer gently for about 15–20 minutes, or until the broccoli and carrots are tender but not mushy. This ensures the vegetables keep some texture and the broth is imbued with their natural sweetness.
Step 4: Blend in Cottage Cheese and Cheddar
Blend the low-fat cottage cheese until smooth before stirring it into the pot; this will instantly elevate the creaminess without heaviness. Then, add the shredded cheddar cheese and gently stir until it melts completely, enriching your soup with that classic cheesy goodness we all crave. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed — this is your moment to make the soup perfectly yours.
How to Serve Tasty Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Cottage Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar or a dollop of blended cottage cheese makes an exquisite garnish. Freshly chopped chives or parsley can add that burst of color and freshness, while a light dusting of smoked paprika can hint at the smoky undertone in each spoonful. These little touches don’t just beautify your bowl; they amplify the flavor and make every bite feel special.
Side Dishes
To round out this comforting meal, consider serving your Tasty Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Cottage Cheese Recipe alongside crusty bread or warm garlic rolls. A simple mixed green salad with a bright vinaigrette also pairs wonderfully, adding crispness to balance the soup’s creamy texture. If you’re in the mood for a heartier pairing, mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes offer a cozy complement.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, pour the soup into small bread bowls and serve as an impressive appetizer at your next gathering. Layer some toasted breadcrumbs on top for added crunch, or drizzle a little chili oil or hot sauce for those who love a kick. For a more elegant presentation, serve in individual cups during cocktail hour or ladle into mini pumpkin gourds for a seasonal celebration.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld and intensify overnight, making your leftovers taste even better than the first serving. Just give it a good stir before reheating to reincorporate any settled ingredients.
Freezing
If you want to save the Tasty Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Cottage Cheese Recipe for later, freezing is an option. Transfer cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. The texture might change slightly due to the dairy components, but a quick shake or stir during reheating brings it right back to life. Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to help the soup regain its luscious creaminess. If the soup feels too thick after refrigeration or thawing, simply add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use regular cheddar cheese instead of shredded?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to grate it yourself for faster melting and better incorporation into the soup. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melt quality.
Is it necessary to blend the cottage cheese before adding?
Blending the cottage cheese results in a smoother, creamier soup without curds, which is preferable for this recipe. If you like some texture, you can add it unblended, but it will change the soup’s mouthfeel.
Can I substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth?
Absolutely! Chicken broth adds a savory depth and works well, especially if you are not strictly vegetarian. Just use your favorite broth to suit your taste.
What if I want a thicker soup?
Add a bit more flour when making the roux or reduce the amount of broth slightly. Another trick is simmering the soup uncovered longer to concentrate the flavors and thicken the consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! This soup reheats wonderfully, making it a perfect option for meal prep. Just store in portions and reheat as needed for quick, nourishing meals throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Tasty Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Cottage Cheese Recipe enough for anyone craving something cozy, nutritious, and downright delicious. It’s one of those dishes that comes together effortlessly but tastes like it took hours to make. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this soup is a comforting classic with a fresh twist that’s sure to make it a favorite in your kitchen.
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Tasty Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Cottage Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Tasty Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Cottage Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish packed with vibrant veggies and rich flavors. Made with a blend of low-fat cottage cheese and sharp cheddar, this soup offers a healthier twist on the classic broccoli cheddar recipe. It’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 cups broccoli, cut into 1-inch florets
- 1 large yellow onion, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 2 large carrots, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 celery stalk, diced into 1/4-inch pieces
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Dairy
- 1 cup low fat cottage cheese, blended smooth for creaminess
- 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
- 2 cups 1% milk
- 1 tbsp butter, unsalted, melted
Pantry
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (I use King Arthur)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste, freshly ground
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, celery, and carrots. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Create the roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir constantly for 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. This mixture will help thicken the soup.
- Add liquids and seasoning: Slowly pour in the vegetable broth and 1% milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Add the smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the soup slightly thickens.
- Add broccoli and cook: Stir in the broccoli florets and continue cooking the soup for another 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green.
- Blend cottage cheese: In a blender or food processor, blend the low-fat cottage cheese until smooth and creamy. This will add creaminess without extra fat.
- Incorporate cheeses: Stir the smooth cottage cheese into the warm soup, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until cheeses are melted and the soup is creamy throughout. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and enjoy immediately. Optionally garnish with extra cheddar or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for added color.
Notes
- Blending the cottage cheese smooth ensures a creamy texture without using heavy cream.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for better melting and flavor.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk and cheeses with plant-based alternatives, though texture may vary.
- If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half the cottage cheese and vegetables.
