Creamy Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Delight in the rich and velvety texture of this Creamy Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup, perfectly crafted for low-carb diets without sacrificing flavor. This hearty soup combines sautéed aromatics, luscious cream cheese, and a generous amount of sharp cheddar cheese, blended with tender broccoli for a comforting bowl that is both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect as a starter or a main dish, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy the warmth and creaminess with just 4.1 net carbs per serving, making it an ideal choice for anyone on a ketogenic journey. Share with friends and family, or keep it all for yourself—either way, it's a deliciously guilt-free indulgence!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Onion Powder
1 teaspoon (none)
Garlic Powder
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Paprika
1 teaspoon (none)
Butter
2 tablespoons (none)
Cream Cheese
8 ounces (softened)
Chicken Broth
4 1/2 cups (low-sodium recommended)
Heavy Whipping Cream
1 cup (none)
Frozen Chopped Broccoli
16 ounces (frozen)
Sharp Cheddar Cheese
1 cup (shredded)
Instructions
1
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir frequently to ensure that the mixture is nice and creamy and fully blended.
2
Once the cream cheese has melted and the ingredients are well combined, gradually mix in the heavy whipping cream and chicken broth. Stir to integrate everything together smoothly.
3
Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. Allow it to boil for 5-8 minutes to deepen the flavors.
4
Add the frozen chopped broccoli to the pot, stirring well. Once it comes back to a boil, reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let simmer for 20 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
5
Remove the pot from heat and add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring until the cheese has melted and the soup is creamy. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this soup keto-friendly?
Yes, this Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is specifically designed for low-carb diets with only 4.1 net carbs per serving.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can substitute 16 ounces of fresh broccoli florets; just ensure they are chopped small and cooked until tender.
What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar cheese is recommended as it provides the most robust flavor and a creamy melt.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free because it uses cream cheese and heavy cream to thicken the soup instead of a flour-based roux.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Absolutely, you can use vegetable broth to make this a vegetarian-friendly keto soup.
How many net carbs are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 4.1 net carbs.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze this broccoli cheddar soup?
Yes, you can freeze it, but be aware that dairy-based soups can sometimes separate; stir well when reheating to restore the texture.
How can I make the soup thicker?
To thicken the soup, you can simmer it longer to reduce the liquid or add a little extra cream cheese or shredded cheddar.
Can I add protein to this soup?
Yes, adding cooked shredded chicken or crispy bacon bits is a great way to increase the protein content.
Do I need to thaw the frozen broccoli before adding it?
No, you can add the frozen chopped broccoli directly into the boiling broth mixture.
Can I use an immersion blender for a smoother texture?
Yes, if you prefer a smooth soup, use an immersion blender after the broccoli is tender but before adding the final cheddar cheese.
What spices are used in this recipe?
This recipe uses onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika for a savory flavor profile.
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy whipping cream?
You can, but it will increase the carbohydrate count and may result in a slightly less creamy texture.
Why is cream cheese used in this recipe?
Cream cheese acts as a stabilizer and thickener, providing a rich, velvety mouthfeel without the need for starch.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, the recipe is not spicy; the paprika is added for depth of flavor rather than heat.
Can I use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika?
Yes, smoked paprika adds a wonderful smoky flavor that pairs very well with cheddar cheese.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Yes, you can sauté minced fresh garlic in the butter before adding the cream cheese.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it is excellent for meal prep as it reheats well and stays flavorful for several days.
What if I do not have butter?
You can substitute butter with olive oil or avocado oil, though butter provides the best flavor for this creamy base.
Can I add other vegetables like cauliflower?
Yes, cauliflower is a great keto-friendly addition that blends perfectly with the broccoli and cheese.
How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?
Remove the pot from the heat before stirring in the shredded cheddar cheese to ensure a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Is this soup kid-friendly?
Yes, the creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it a very popular choice for children.
Can I use mild cheddar cheese?
Yes, mild cheddar works well, though the flavor will be less intense than with sharp cheddar.
How many servings does this recipe make?
While the exact serving count varies by portion size, this recipe typically yields about 6 hearty servings.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, combine the broth, broccoli, and spices in a slow cooker for 3-4 hours on low, then stir in the dairy and cheese at the end.
Is it better to shred your own cheese?
Yes, freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
Can I use broccoli stems?
Yes, just make sure the stems are peeled and chopped finely so they cook through at the same rate as the florets.
Does this soup contain nuts?
No, this recipe is naturally nut-free.
Is this soup a main course or a side dish?
It is hearty enough to be a main course but also serves as a perfect starter or side dish.