Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe·Leave a Review

A warm bowl of broccoli cheddar soup is the perfect dish to enjoy on a chilly day, but this healthy version takes it a step further by offering all the creamy goodness without the guilt. With a combination of fresh vegetables, a rich, cheesy flavor, and a lighter base, this soup offers a nutritious twist on the classic comfort food. The addition of cottage cheese brings a surprising depth of creaminess, while the balance of vegetable broth and 1% milk makes it feel indulgent but still light. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a cozy meal for yourself or serve a nutritious dinner to your family, this healthy broccoli cheddar soup is the perfect solution. You can feel good about each spoonful as it delivers both flavor and nourishment, making it the ideal choice for anyone seeking a lighter, healthier version of this beloved soup.

Packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins, this soup doesn’t compromise on flavor. The vegetables add a natural sweetness and texture that complements the sharp cheddar and smoky paprika perfectly. It’s an easy-to-make, hearty option for lunch or dinner and can be adjusted to fit various dietary preferences, whether you need it gluten-free or dairy-free. You’ll love how quickly this soup comes together, making it an excellent choice for busy days when you want something both healthy and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Lighter and Healthier

This version of broccoli cheddar soup uses low-fat ingredients like cottage cheese and 1% milk, making it a lighter alternative to the traditional heavy cream-based recipes. It’s a great way to enjoy comfort food without the extra calories.

2. Packed with Nutrients

Loaded with fiber from broccoli, carrots, and celery, this soup is not only delicious but also offers a good dose of vitamins and minerals. The addition of cottage cheese boosts the protein content, helping you stay full longer.

3. Quick and Easy to Make

With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this healthy broccoli cheddar soup comes together quickly. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a meal prep option for busy days.

4. Customizable to Your Needs

Whether you need a gluten-free version or want to make it dairy-free, this recipe is flexible. You can easily swap ingredients like gluten-free flour or dairy-free cheese to fit your dietary preferences.

5. Comfort Food You Can Feel Good About

This recipe offers all the comforting flavors of traditional broccoli cheddar soup, but with a healthier twist. You’ll get the same creamy texture and rich flavor, but with fewer calories and more nutrients.

Ingredients

Butter
Yellow onion
Carrots
Celery
Garlic
All-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
Smoked paprika
Vegetable broth (not-chicken style)
Chopped broccoli
1% milk
Cheddar cheese, shredded
Low-fat cottage cheese, blended
Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

Gluten-Free Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Replace the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk) and a vegan butter substitute.
Spicy Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a kick of heat.
Creamier Broccoli Soup: If you prefer a richer, creamier texture, blend more of the soup after cooking, or add extra cottage cheese for additional creaminess.
Cheese-Free Option: If you want to avoid cheese altogether, try adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or skip it entirely for a lighter option.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to combine, cooking for 1-2 minutes. This will help thicken the soup.

Step 3: Add Broth and Spices

Pour in the vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Add the smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Add the Broccoli

Stir in the chopped broccoli and cook for another 10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.

Step 5: Add Dairy and Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the 1% milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and blended cottage cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup becomes creamy.

Step 6: Blend (Optional)

For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend part or all of the soup, or transfer some of the soup to a blender. Blend until the soup reaches your desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the soup hot, with extra shredded cheddar on top if desired, or alongside crusty bread.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Broccoli should be tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on it to retain its vibrant color and texture.
Make it Creamier: For an extra creamy soup, blend more of the soup after cooking or increase the amount of cottage cheese.
Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli works best in this recipe, giving the soup a better texture and flavor compared to frozen.
Taste and Adjust: Always taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or more paprika if necessary.
Make It Your Own: Feel free to add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.

How to Serve

This healthy broccoli cheddar soup can be served in many ways. Pair it with a slice of whole-grain or sourdough bread for a filling meal, or enjoy it as a starter with a salad. For an even more indulgent experience, serve it in a bread bowl for the ultimate comfort food presentation. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of extra cheddar on top can elevate the flavor as well.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to preserve the texture of the soup.

Freezing

This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra broth or milk to return it to the desired consistency.

Reheating

To reheat, place the soup in a pot on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened, add a little extra broth or milk to reach the desired consistency. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat milk instead of 1% milk?

Yes, you can substitute low-fat milk, though the soup may not be as creamy.

2. Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda can be used, but cheddar will give you the classic flavor.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour substitute.

4. Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, you can make it vegan by using plant-based milk, dairy-free cheese, and a vegan butter substitute.

5. How can I make the soup spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a diced jalapeño to the soup for a spicy kick.

6. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, you can add more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or cauliflower for added nutrition.

7. Can I freeze this soup?

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

8. How can I make the soup thicker?

If you want a thicker soup, you can blend part of the soup, or add extra flour or cottage cheese to thicken it.

9. Can I skip the cottage cheese?

You can skip the cottage cheese, but it adds a creamy texture and protein. Consider adding extra milk or a dairy-free alternative.

10. How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Add the cheese slowly over low heat and stir constantly to prevent clumping.

Conclusion

This healthy broccoli cheddar soup is the perfect way to enjoy a lighter version of a classic comfort food. Full of flavor, nutrients, and creamy goodness, it’s a satisfying dish that won’t weigh you down. Whether you’re trying to eat healthier or simply want a comforting, wholesome meal, this soup is a delicious and nutritious option for any occasion. With a few simple swaps, this recipe can be easily tailored to suit your dietary needs, making it versatile and adaptable for everyone to enjoy.