Description
This Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a lighter version of the classic, made with fresh vegetables, a blend of cottage cheese for creaminess, and sharp cheddar cheese for flavor. It’s a comforting, nutritious, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3 cups vegetable broth (preferably not-chicken style)
- 4 cups chopped broccoli
- 2 cups 1% milk
- 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese, blended
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour and smoked paprika, cooking for 2-3 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth and 1% milk, ensuring no lumps remain from the flour mixture. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture starts to thicken.
- Add the chopped broccoli to the pot, and simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and blended cottage cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, and enjoy!
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend part of the soup after cooking and return it to the pot.
- You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for extra flavor if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American