Name: Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Keto
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen); 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth); 1 cup heavy cream; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard (optional, for extra flavor); 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)

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This Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup is a creamy, comforting, and low-carb version of the classic dish. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with healthy fats, making it the perfect meal for anyone following a keto or low-carb diet. The combination of tender broccoli, a luscious cheese sauce, and a hint of garlic and onion makes this soup incredibly flavorful and satisfying. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that can be whipped up in no time, and it’s sure to keep you full and cozy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup is a low-carb dream come true! It’s creamy without the use of flour or heavy cream (instead, we use cream cheese for a silky texture), and it’s full of rich cheddar flavor. Packed with nutritious broccoli, this soup is not only delicious but also provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It’s the perfect way to indulge in a comfort food classic while sticking to your keto goals. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make in just one pot, making it a quick and satisfying meal for busy days.

Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
1 cup heavy cream
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon ground mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Make the creamy base: While the broccoli is cooking, blend the cream cheese and heavy cream together in a separate bowl or measuring cup until smooth.
Combine the cream mixture: Once the broccoli is tender, use an immersion blender to purée the soup directly in the pot. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Blend until the soup reaches your desired consistency (smooth or slightly chunky).
Add cheese and seasonings: Stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream mixture. Once well combined, add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, ground mustard, and paprika (if using) to taste.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish with extra cheddar cheese or a sprinkle of paprika for added flavor.
Enjoy: Serve this Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup on its own or with a side of keto-friendly bread for a complete meal.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add Beef: For a smoky, savory twist, add crumbled beef on top of the soup for a garnish or stir it in before serving.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the soup to give it a little heat.
Vegan Option: To make this soup vegan-friendly, substitute the cream cheese and heavy cream with coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
More Veggies: Add other low-carb vegetables like cauliflower or zucchini to the soup for extra texture and nutrients.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a little more chicken broth or heavy cream to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes! You can use frozen broccoli in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as frozen broccoli may cook faster than fresh broccoli.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup is perfect for meal prep! Make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld even more as it sits. Simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! You can use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, gouda, or a blend of cheeses. However, sharp cheddar provides the best flavor for this recipe.

Can I make this soup spicier?

Yes, you can make this soup spicier by adding more paprika, ground mustard, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also add diced green chilies or hot sauce for extra heat.

Can I freeze this Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup?

This soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove. Be aware that the texture may change slightly after freezing due to the dairy, but it will still be delicious.

Is this soup really keto-friendly?

Yes, this soup is perfect for a keto diet! It’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats, thanks to the cream cheese, heavy cream, and cheese. The broccoli adds fiber and nutrients without adding too many carbs.

Conclusion

This Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup is a rich, creamy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy, low-carb meal. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and full of the nutrients your body needs to stay healthy on a keto diet. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or prepping it for a quick lunch, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love!