Description
Craving a warm, creamy soup that’s packed with flavor and nutrition? This Cottage Cheese Broccoli Cheddar Soup is your perfect comfort food! Blending tender broccoli with rich cheddar and creamy cottage cheese, this soup delivers a velvety texture and savory goodness in every spoonful.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make this Cottage Cheese Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Each ingredient adds to the creamy, savory, and vibrant magic.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and flavor for sautéing.
- Onion (1, chopped): Provides a sweet, savory base.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses aromatic depth.
- Broccoli Florets (4 cups): The star ingredient, delivering earthy flavor and nutrition.
- Vegetable Broth (4 cups): Adds depth and creates the perfect soup consistency.
- Cottage Cheese (1 cup): Creates a creamy, protein-rich texture.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Adds melty, cheesy flavor.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Seasons the soup to perfection.
- Croutons (optional, for garnish): Provides a crunchy topping.
Substitutions and Variations
- Butter: Swap with olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
- Broccoli: Use cauliflower, zucchini, or a mix of green vegetables for a twist.
- Cottage Cheese: Replace with ricotta, Greek yogurt, or vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Cheddar Cheese: Swap with Gouda, Colby, or a vegan cheddar alternative.
- Vegetable Broth: Substitute with chicken broth (if not vegetarian) or water with a bouillon cube.
- Add-Ins: Stir in ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or ¼ cup heavy cream for extra richness.
- Garnish: Use fresh herbs like parsley or chives instead of croutons, or sprinkle with bacon bits for non-vegetarian flair.
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, and sauté for 5–7 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent burning; onions should be soft, not browned.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
- Add 4 cups broccoli florets and 4 cups vegetable broth to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
Tip: Test broccoli with a fork; it should be soft but not mushy for the best texture.
Step 3: Blend the Soup
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency (smooth or slightly chunky).
- Stir in 1 cup cottage cheese and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, blending or stirring until fully melted and smooth.
Tip: If using a regular blender, work in batches and blend carefully to avoid hot splashes; return to the pot after blending.
Step 4: Season and Serve
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with croutons or fresh herbs, if desired.
Tip: For a smoother soup, blend longer or strain through a fine mesh sieve (optional).