This Cottage Cheese Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the cozy, nourishing bowl you need on a chilly day—ultra creamy with a rich cheddar flavor, packed with vibrant broccoli and carrots, and given a protein boost thanks to blended cottage cheese. It’s everything you crave about classic broccoli cheddar soup, but lightened up and sneakily nutritious. Whether you’re trying to add more veggies or just want a really satisfying soup, this recipe checks all the boxes, delivering velvety texture, fantastic flavor, and a wholesome twist that will surprise you in the best possible way.

Cottage Cheese Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key for creating the perfect Cottage Cheese Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Each one plays a special role, blending together to bring you a soup that’s both comforting and nutrient-packed—no ingredient is a bystander here!

Olive oil or butter: Sautéing your aromatics in either adds depth and a hint of richness from the very start.
Onion: Diced onion forms the savory backbone, bringing subtle sweetness and a delicious aroma.
Garlic: Two cloves, minced, infuse the soup with an irresistible garlicky flavor—don’t skip this, it really brings everything together!
All-purpose flour: Just a bit helps create a gentle roux, thickening your soup for that classic creamy body.
Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: The base that carries all the flavors; opt for low-sodium so you control the salt.
Milk (2% or whole): Creamy but not too heavy, milk marries the broth and cheese for luscious texture.
Broccoli florets: Finely chopped for tenderness and even cooking—after all, the broccoli is the star here!
Carrots: Grated or julienned, carrots add subtle sweetness and beautiful pops of color.
Smoked paprika: Just half a teaspoon adds gentle warmth and a faint smokiness—so good in this soup.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning; always taste and adjust!
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: For that unmistakable classic cheesy flavor, choose a good-quality sharp cheddar and grate it yourself if you can.
Cottage cheese (blended until smooth): The secret hero—blending ensures zero lumps and a supremely creamy, protein-rich finish.

How to Make Cottage Cheese Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by warming your olive oil or butter in a large, sturdy pot set over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and let it gently soften, stirring occasionally—about five minutes is perfect. Once the onion is tender and fragrant, add the minced garlic, letting it cook for just a minute until your kitchen smells completely irresistible.

Step 2: Build the Roux

Now, sprinkle the flour evenly over the onions and garlic, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps. This step is your ticket to that creamy, craveable texture. After a couple of minutes, the raw taste of flour will cook out, and you’ll notice the mixture thickening up ever so slightly.

Step 3: Add the Liquid

Slowly pour in the broth and milk, whisking or stirring as you go to keep everything smooth. Don’t rush this part—adding the liquids gradually is what keeps your Cottage Cheese Broccoli Cheddar Soup base velvety and lump-free, ensuring every spoonful is delightfully creamy.

Step 4: Simmer the Veggies

Stir in the chopped broccoli florets, carrots, smoked paprika, a pinch of salt, and some black pepper. Let the soup simmer uncovered for about fifteen to twenty minutes, or until the broccoli is tender enough that you can easily pierce it with a fork. This is where the soup’s nourishing character really comes to life, as the vegetables become wonderfully soft and release their flavors.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheese

With your veggies nice and tender, reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time. Stir until it’s fully melted and the soup becomes instantly more luscious. This is what gives Cottage Cheese Broccoli Cheddar Soup that classic, over-the-top cheesy appeal!

Step 6: Blend and Add Cottage Cheese

Give your cottage cheese a quick whirl in a blender or food processor until it’s completely smooth, then stir it right into the hot soup. This is the game-changer—your soup becomes extra creamy and boosts its protein content, no extra cream needed. Take a moment to taste and adjust for salt or pepper before serving.

How to Serve Cottage Cheese Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Garnishes

Personalize every bowl with a flourish: sprinkle a bit of extra shredded cheddar cheese or a dollop of cottage cheese on top, add a handful of finely chopped chives, or a quick grind of fresh black pepper. If you’re feeling fancy, a few homemade croutons or a swirl of hot sauce will amp things up even more—your Cottage Cheese Broccoli Cheddar Soup, your rules!

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with all kinds of sides. A crusty slice of sourdough or a warm baguette for dunking is basically a must. Add a light green salad or a crisp apple slaw to keep things fresh and balanced, or serve with a panini for a comforting lunch. It’s supremely versatile and never fussy.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining or just want to liven up a regular night, ladle your Cottage Cheese Broccoli Cheddar Soup into mini bread bowls, or serve it in dainty mugs topped with a sprinkle of crispy bacon. For meal prepping, pour into portioned jars and layer with extra veggies or microgreens for a cheerful, make-ahead lunch that brightens any day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer your leftover Cottage Cheese Broccoli Cheddar Soup to airtight containers and stash them in the refrigerator. It’ll keep well for up to three or four days—just note that the soup will thicken even more after sitting, making it even richer and heartier the next day.

Freezing

Cottage Cheese Broccoli Cheddar Soup freezes surprisingly well, especially since the base isn’t overloaded with dairy. Let it cool, portion it into airtight containers (leave a bit of space for expansion), and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture—it’s perfect for busy weeks.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or broth to thin things out if it’s gotten too thick. If you’re using the microwave, go slow and stir every so often to keep the texture silky and prevent any scorching.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a great shortcut. If your florets are pre-steamed or thawed, you can reduce the simmering time by a few minutes. Just make sure to chop the florets into smaller pieces for even cooking and a smooth soup base.

Is this soup vegetarian?

If you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, Cottage Cheese Broccoli Cheddar Soup is completely vegetarian. It’s also a fantastic option for vegetarians looking to boost their protein intake in a cozy, delicious way.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Of course! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or use cornstarch to thicken your soup. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so it’s a super easy swap for those with dietary restrictions.

What if I don’t have a blender for the cottage cheese?

If you don’t have a blender or food processor, try to find whipped cottage cheese, which is already smooth. Alternatively, stir your cottage cheese vigorously with a fork or whisk to break up as many lumps as possible before adding it to the soup.

Why does the soup thicken after sitting, and how can I fix it?

The soup will naturally thicken as it cools, especially overnight, as the starch from the flour and veggies continues to absorb liquid. Simply stir in a splash of extra broth or milk when reheating until you reach your preferred consistency.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about this Cottage Cheese Broccoli Cheddar Soup—it’s wholesome, satisfying, and completely comforting, yet so simple to make. Give it a try and you’ll discover your next go-to, feel-good soup recipe that everyone asks for again and again!