Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a classic dish that has been beloved for its creamy texture and comforting flavors. When adapted to fit a keto diet, it becomes an even more enticing option for those seeking low-carb, high-fat meals.

This keto-friendly version of Broccoli Cheddar Soup maintains all the deliciousness of the original while aligning with the principles of a ketogenic lifestyle. By using ingredients like broccoli, cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and healthy fats, this recipe delivers a satisfying and nutritious soup that keeps carb counts in check.

Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Ingredients

1. 4 Cups Broccoli Florets

Fresh broccoli florets, washed and chopped into bite-sized pieces. Broccoli is rich in nutrients like vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.

2. 4 Cups Chicken or Vegetable Broth

Use homemade or store-bought broth without added sugars or starches to keep it keto-friendly. Check labels for carb content.

3. 1 Cup Heavy Cream or Coconut Cream

Heavy cream adds richness, while coconut cream provides a dairy-free alternative. Both are high in healthy fats and low in carbs.

4. 2 Cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese

Opt for sharp cheddar for a more pronounced flavor. Shredded cheese melts smoothly into the soup, adding creaminess and a cheesy taste.

5. 2 Tablespoons Butter or Olive Oil

Used for sautéing onions and garlic (if using) and adding richness to the soup. Butter adds a traditional flavor, while olive oil is a healthier option.

6. 1 Small Onion, Finely Chopped

Adds flavor and aroma to the soup. Onions are low in carbs and can be omitted for a simpler version of the soup.

7. 2 Cloves Garlic, Minced

Provides a subtle garlic flavor. Garlic is low in carbs and adds depth to the soup’s taste profile.

8. Salt and Pepper

Season the soup with salt and pepper according to your preference. Adjust the seasoning as needed to enhance the flavors of the soup.

Enjoy the rich flavors and wholesome goodness of Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup, perfect for a satisfying and comforting meal that fits your keto lifestyle!

Instructions

1. Prep Work

1. Start by washing 4 cups of broccoli florets thoroughly under running water. Chop them into small, bite-sized pieces, discarding any tough stems.
2. If using onion and garlic, peel and finely chop 1 small onion and 2 cloves of garlic.
3. If your cheddar cheese is not pre-shredded, grate 2 cups of cheddar cheese using a cheese grater and set aside.

2. Cooking Process

1. In a soup pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic (if using) and sauté until they turn translucent and fragrant.
2. Add the chopped broccoli florets to the pot and stir well to coat them with the butter or oil. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the broccoli is slightly tender.
3. Pour in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring that the broccoli is fully submerged. Adjust the amount of broth as needed to cover the broccoli.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for about 15-20 minutes or until the broccoli is completely soft and cooked through.
5. Once the broccoli is cooked, turn off the heat. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender to puree the mixture until smooth and creamy.
6. Return the blended soup to the pot if using a regular blender. Place the pot back on the stove over low heat.
7. Add 1 cup of heavy cream or coconut cream to the soup, stirring continuously until well combined and heated through.
8. Gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated into the soup, creating a creamy texture.
9. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your preferences.

3. Serving Suggestions

• Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls.
• Optionally, garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of additional shredded cheddar cheese for extra cheesiness.
• Add a dash of freshly ground black pepper or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and flavor.
• Serve the Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup hot and enjoy its creamy, comforting goodness!

The instructions for making Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup guide you through a simple yet flavorful cooking process. Starting with the prep work of washing and chopping broccoli, and optionally preparing onions, garlic, and shredding cheddar cheese, you set the stage for a hearty soup. The cooking process involves sautéing aromatics, simmering broccoli in broth until tender, blending the mixture into a smooth consistency, and enriching it with heavy cream and melted cheddar cheese. Finally, the serving suggestions emphasize garnishing with extra cheese, herbs, and a dash of pepper for a visually appealing and delicious bowl of warm comfort, perfect for enjoying the creamy goodness of keto-friendly indulgence.

Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delectable and satisfying dish that perfectly embodies the principles of a ketogenic diet. This creamy soup is loaded with wholesome ingredients like fresh broccoli florets, rich cheddar cheese, and a touch of heavy cream or coconut cream. The soup starts with prepping the broccoli by washing and chopping it into bite-sized pieces. Optionally, onions and garlic can be finely chopped for added flavor.

The cooking process involves sautéing the aromatics in butter or olive oil until translucent, then adding the broccoli and cooking until tender. Chicken or vegetable broth is then poured in to simmer the ingredients until they meld together beautifully. The mixture is blended until smooth, creating a velvety base for the soup.

Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup Nutrition Info

Here’s an approximate nutrition table for Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup, based on common ingredients and standard serving sizes:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350 kcal
Total Fat	28g
– Saturated Fat	17g
Cholesterol	95mg
Sodium	700mg
Total Carbohydrates	8g
– Dietary Fiber	2g
– Sugars	3g
Protein	15g

Note: The values provided are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and measurements of ingredients used. Adjustments may be needed for accuracy, especially for homemade broths or variations in cheese brands.

Here’s a consolidated nutrition table for each ingredient used in Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

Ingredient	Quantity/Amount	Calories	Total Fat	Saturated Fat	Cholesterol	Sodium	Total Carbohydrates	Dietary Fiber	Sugars	Protein
Broccoli Florets	4 cups	120	1g	0g	0mg	120mg	24g	10g	6g	12g
Chicken or Vegetable Broth	4 cups	20	0g	0g	0mg	1000mg	2g	0g	2g	2g
Heavy Cream	1 cup	800	88g	55g	330mg	80mg	6g	0g	6g	4g
Coconut Cream	1 cup	500	50g	44g	0mg	30mg	8g	0g	0g	4g
Cheddar Cheese	2 cups shredded	800	64g	40g	200mg	1200mg	8g	0g	0g	48g
Butter	2 tablespoons	200	22g	14g	60mg	180mg	0g	0g	0g	0g
Olive Oil	2 tablespoons	240	28g	4g	0mg	0mg	0g	0g	0g	0g
Onion	1 small	30	0g	0g	0mg	2mg	7g	1g	3g	1g
Garlic	2 cloves	10	0g	0g	0mg	1mg	2g

The values provided are approximate and based on common nutritional data. Actual values may vary based on specific brands and measurements.

Tips for Best Results 🍽

Here are some tips for achieving the best results when making Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

1. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh broccoli florets and high-quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor and texture.
2. Proper Chopping: Chop the broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy blending.
3. Aromatics: If using onion and garlic, finely chop them to release their flavors into the soup.
4. Sautéing: Sautéing onions and garlic in butter or olive oil before adding other ingredients enhances their flavors and adds depth to the soup.
5. Simmering Time: Allow the broccoli to simmer in the broth until it’s fully tender. This ensures a smooth and creamy texture when blended.
6. Blending: Use an immersion blender for convenience or a regular blender in batches to achieve a smooth and creamy soup consistency.
7. Creaminess: Adjust the amount of heavy cream or coconut cream based on your desired level of creaminess.
8. Cheese Melting: Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese while stirring continuously until fully melted and incorporated into the soup.
9. Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavors.
10. Garnish: Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of additional shredded cheddar cheese, freshly ground black pepper, or chopped fresh herbs like parsley for added visual appeal and flavor.
11. Serve Hot: Serve the Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup hot for the best experience and enjoyment of its creamy, comforting goodness.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a delicious and satisfying Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup that’s sure to impress!

Delicious Topping Ideas

Here are some delicious topping ideas to enhance your Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

1. Extra Shredded Cheddar Cheese

Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top of each bowl for extra cheesiness and richness.

2. Crispy Bacon Bits

Cook crispy bacon until golden brown, crumble it into small pieces, and sprinkle over the soup for a savory and crunchy topping.

3. Chopped Fresh Herbs

Add a pop of color and freshness with chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or cilantro. These herbs not only enhance the presentation but also add a burst of flavor.

4. Crushed Red Pepper Flakes

For a hint of heat and spice, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top of the soup. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

5. Toasted Almond Flakes

Toast almond flakes until lightly golden and crunchy, then sprinkle them over the soup for a nutty and delightful texture contrast.

6. Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt

Dollop a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top of the soup before serving for a creamy and tangy addition.

7. Garlic Butter Croutons

Make homemade garlic butter croutons by tossing cubed bread with melted butter and garlic powder, then toasting until crispy. Use them as a crunchy topping for the soup.

8. Drizzle of Olive Oil

Finish the soup with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a luxurious touch and added depth of flavor.

9. Sautéed Mushrooms

Sauté thinly sliced mushrooms in butter until golden brown and tender, then use them as a savory topping for the soup.

10. Grilled Shrimp or Chicken

For a protein-packed option, top the soup with grilled shrimp or chicken slices seasoned with herbs and spices.

Feel free to mix and match these topping ideas or come up with your own creative combinations to suit your taste preferences and add variety to your Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

FAQ

How many carbs are in keto broccoli cheddar soup?

The number of carbs in Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup can vary depending on the specific ingredients and proportions used in the recipe. However, a typical serving of Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup made with keto-friendly ingredients would generally have around 8-10 grams of net carbs per serving.

Here’s a breakdown of the main sources of carbs in Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

1. Broccoli: Broccoli is relatively low in carbs, with about 4 grams of net carbs per cup of chopped broccoli florets.
2. Onions and Garlic: If using onions and garlic, they contribute a small amount of carbs. Onions typically have around 5 grams of net carbs per 100 grams, while garlic has about 1 gram of net carbs per clove.
3. Heavy Cream or Coconut Cream: These ingredients add creaminess to the soup and may contribute a few grams of carbs, usually around 1-2 grams of net carbs per serving.
4. Cheddar Cheese: While cheddar cheese is low in carbs, it still contains some, with roughly 1 gram of net carbs per ounce (28 grams) of shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Store-bought broths may contain a small amount of carbs, typically around 1 gram of net carbs per cup.

Keep in mind that the exact carb content can vary based on the specific brands and measurements of ingredients used. It’s always a good idea to check nutrition labels and calculate the total carbs minus fiber and sugar alcohols (if applicable) to determine the net carb count in your Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

Is broccoli cheddar soup keto-friendly?

Yes, broccoli cheddar soup can be keto-friendly when prepared with the right ingredients and recipe adjustments. Here’s how:

1. Low-Carb Vegetables: Broccoli is a low-carb vegetable, making it suitable for keto diets. It adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals without significantly impacting carb intake.
2. High-Fat Ingredients: Keto diets emphasize healthy fats. Broccoli cheddar soup typically includes ingredients like heavy cream, butter, and cheese, which are high in fat and low in carbs, aligning with keto principles.
3. Avoiding High-Carb Additions: Traditional broccoli cheddar soups may include high-carb ingredients like flour or starchy vegetables. For a keto-friendly version, these high-carb additions are typically omitted or replaced with low-carb alternatives.
4. Net Carb Calculation: To ensure a recipe is keto-friendly, calculate the net carbs by subtracting fiber and sugar alcohols (if any) from the total carbs. Aim for a low net carb count per serving to stay within keto guidelines.

By using keto-friendly ingredients and mindful portion control, broccoli cheddar soup can be a delicious and satisfying addition to a keto diet plan.

How long does Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup last in the fridge?

Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup can typically last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days when stored properly. Here are some tips to ensure its freshness and safety:

1. Cooling: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Hot foods can raise the temperature inside the fridge and affect other perishables.
2. Storage Container: Use an airtight container or a covered bowl to store the soup. This helps prevent odors from other foods and keeps the soup from absorbing unwanted flavors.
3. Labeling: If you’ve made multiple batches of soup or have other similar dishes in the fridge, label the container with the date of preparation. This helps you keep track of its freshness.
4. Positioning: Store the soup on a refrigerator shelf rather than in the door. The door is often exposed to temperature fluctuations when opened frequently, which can affect the food’s shelf life.
5. Reheating: When ready to enjoy the soup, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Stirring occasionally helps distribute heat evenly.

If you’re unable to consume the soup within 3-4 days, consider freezing it for longer storage. Properly frozen Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Is broccoli cheddar soup good or bad for you?

Whether broccoli cheddar soup is considered good or bad for you depends on various factors such as the ingredients used, portion size, and overall dietary context. Here are some considerations:

Good Aspects:

1. Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Broccoli is a nutritious vegetable rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It provides fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate, among other nutrients.
2. Healthy Fats: If made with high-quality ingredients like real cheese, heavy cream, and butter, broccoli cheddar soup can be a source of healthy fats, which are important for energy and nutrient absorption.
3. Comforting and Satisfying: Soups can be comforting and satisfying, especially during colder months. They can also be a convenient way to incorporate vegetables into your diet.

Considerations:

1. High in Calories: Traditional broccoli cheddar soups made with heavy cream, cheese, and butter can be high in calories. Portion control is important, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.
2. High in Saturated Fat and Sodium: Some versions of broccoli cheddar soup may be high in saturated fat and sodium, especially if made with excessive amounts of cheese or added salt.
3. Potential Additives: Store-bought or restaurant versions of broccoli cheddar soup may contain additives, preservatives, or thickeners that may not be beneficial for everyone.

Making It Healthier:

• Use low-sodium broth and limit added salt.
• Opt for reduced-fat cheese or use less cheese.
• Use a mix of dairy and non-dairy options like almond milk to reduce saturated fat.
• Add more vegetables like cauliflower, spinach, or carrots for added nutrients and fiber.
• Make it from scratch at home to control the ingredients and reduce additives.

In summary, broccoli cheddar soup can be a nutritious and satisfying dish when made with wholesome ingredients and consumed in moderation. However, it’s important to consider the overall balance of your diet and make adjustments to suit your nutritional needs and health goals.

Can I use frozen broccoli for this soup?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli for making broccoli cheddar soup. Using frozen broccoli can be convenient, especially when fresh broccoli is not available or when you want to save time on chopping and preparation.

Here are some tips for using frozen broccoli in broccoli cheddar soup:

1. Thawing: Thaw the frozen broccoli according to the package instructions before using it in the soup. You can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
2. Drain Excess Moisture: Frozen broccoli tends to release more moisture when cooked. After thawing, drain any excess water from the broccoli to prevent the soup from becoming too watery.
3. Adjust Cooking Time: Frozen broccoli may cook slightly faster than fresh broccoli since it’s already partially cooked during the freezing process. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the broccoli is tender but not overcooked.
4. Flavor Enhancement: Since frozen broccoli may have a slightly different texture compared to fresh broccoli, you can enhance the flavor of the soup by adding aromatic ingredients like onions, garlic, and herbs during the cooking process.
5. Blending: When blending the soup, ensure that the frozen broccoli is fully cooked and softened before pureeing it to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.

By following these tips, you can successfully use frozen broccoli to make delicious broccoli cheddar soup without compromising on flavor or texture.