Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup

In the heart of winter, or really any time a chill creeps in, I find myself drawn to the stove. There’s simply nothing that beats a bowl of rich, velvety soup to bring warmth and comfort to your table. This Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup is particularly special. It’s a wonderfully creamy, low-carb option that delivers all that cheesy, broccoli goodness you crave without any of the carb-heavy guilt.

This nourishing soup has become a go-to in my own kitchen. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when time is short. I love that it’s so quick to prepare, too. Plus, it’s always a crowd-pleaser when I serve it. The vibrant green of the broccoli against the golden cheddar makes it visually appealing. Its hearty texture is truly satisfying on every level.

This Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a weeknight dinner hero! It’s incredibly easy to whip up. You’ll need minimal effort. You get maximum flavor. The rich, cheesy taste is pure comfort. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty meal. This dish feels indulgent. It’s also low-carb. Plus, it’s versatile enough. It can impress guests. It’s also a comforting solo treat.

Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup Ingredients

The magic of this Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup lives in its simple, powerful ingredients. They come together for a luxuriously creamy texture. Each part builds this comforting bowl. This recipe truly shines with wholesome goodness.

Core Ingredients:

• Butter: It creates a rich base. Butter helps sauté aromatics. It adds wonderful depth of flavor.
• Yellow Onion: This offers subtle sweetness. It’s a foundational aromatic base here.
• Garlic: Garlic infuses the soup with its pungent taste. Its savory aroma is a must.
• Chicken Broth: This forms the liquid foundation. It carries all the flavors. It also contributes savory notes.
• Fresh Broccoli Florets: It’s the star vegetable. Broccoli gives vibrant color and nutrients. It adds a slightly tender bite.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: This creates the signature creamy texture. It makes the soup so decadent.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: It delivers essential tangy, cheesy flavor. It contributes to the soup’s smooth consistency.
• Cream Cheese: This adds extra creaminess. It boosts the soup’s richness. It ensures a wonderfully smooth finish.
• Salt & Black Pepper: These are essential seasonings. They enhance and balance all the flavors.

Substitutions and Tips:

• Broccoli: Frozen broccoli florets work well. Add them directly to the simmering broth. Cook a few minutes longer until tender.
• Cheese: Feel free to experiment. Gruyère or Monterey Jack add flavor variations. Shred cheese from a block for best melting.
• Broth: Vegetable broth is a good vegetarian swap. It’s a lovely alternative to chicken broth.
• Thickening: Xanthan gum is optional. It’s highly recommended for a thicker soup. Use it sparingly. A little goes a very long way. Blend a small portion of cooked broccoli for natural thickening.
• Flavor Boost: A pinch of nutmeg helps. A dash of Dijon mustard adds complexity. These enhance the cheese flavor beautifully.

How to Make Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Making this Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy comfort food. This process is very beginner-friendly.

Sauté Aromatics

Melt the butter in a large pot. Use a Dutch oven for best results. Heat it over medium heat on your stovetop. Add the chopped yellow onion. Cook it until it becomes soft. This usually takes about 4–5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for just one more minute. You’ll know it’s ready when it releases its wonderful fragrance.

Simmer Broccoli

Pour in the chicken broth next. Add your prepared broccoli florets to the pot. Bring this entire mixture to a gentle simmer. After that, lower the heat. Cover the pot with a lid. Let it cook for 10 to 15 minutes. The main goal here is for the broccoli to become very tender.

Blend the Soup

Once the broccoli is tender, reduce the heat further. Lower it to low. Use an immersion blender to carefully blend the soup. Blend until you achieve your desired soup consistency. You can go for completely smooth. Or, leave a few small chunks of broccoli. If you don’t have an immersion blender, use a regular blender. Transfer the soup in batches. Blend until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot. Be cautious when blending hot liquids. This is very important for safety.

Add Creamy Goodness

Gently stir in the heavy whipping cream next. Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Also, add the softened cream cheese. Continue stirring over low heat. Keep stirring until all the cheese has completely melted. The soup should look smooth and creamy. It is crucial not to let the soup boil after adding dairy. This can cause it to separate. Keep the heat very low and gentle.

Thicken and Season

If you prefer a thicker soup, sprinkle xanthan gum evenly. Distribute it over the surface of the soup. Whisk it in quickly. This prevents clumps from forming. Allow the soup to simmer for another minute. This helps it achieve the desired thickness. Finally, season your delicious Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Add salt and pepper to your taste. Adjust as needed to perfect the flavor.

Serve and Enjoy

Now, it’s time to serve. Ladle the hot, creamy Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup into bowls. Serve it immediately. Savor the comforting flavors. This dish is perfect for a cozy meal anytime.

How to Store Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Proper storage is key to enjoying this Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup later on. Once the soup has cooled down, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. You can store it safely in your refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to reheat it, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat. Stir it occasionally as it warms. Alternatively, microwave it in short intervals until it’s heated through. Always avoid boiling when reheating. This keeps its wonderfully creamy texture intact.

Tips for Success

• Using good quality, full-fat dairy is key. It ensures the creamiest texture possible.
• Always shred your own cheese from a block. This provides superior melting results.
• Never boil the soup after adding cheese and cream. This prevents separation.
• Taste and adjust seasonings before serving. This guarantees perfect flavor balance.
• Blend carefully with hot liquids. Hot liquids can be dangerous. Safety first!

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Her’s a quick rundown of the essential tools for making this Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Having these on hand makes the process smoother. You can easily make great soup with basic kitchen equipment.

• A large pot or Dutch oven is perfect.
• You’ll need a cutting board and a sharp knife.
• Measuring cups and spoons are necessary.
• An immersion blender is ideal. A regular blender works too.
• A whisk is helpful for the xanthan gum.
• A ladle is needed for serving the soup.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish your steaming bowl with extra shredded cheddar cheese or fresh parsley.
• Serve alongside a crisp side salad for a complete, balanced meal.
• Pair this delicious soup with keto-friendly crackers or a side of crispy bacon.
• Unsweetened iced tea or simple water are perfect drink companions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Can I make this Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup ahead of time?

Yes, this Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup is excellent for making ahead. You can prepare it completely, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring frequently, until warmed through. It holds up beautifully.

What if I don’t have an immersion blender for my Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

No problem at all! You can use a standard blender. Carefully transfer the soup in batches to your blender. Make sure not to overfill it, then blend until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot to finish the recipe. Just be cautious with hot liquids.

Can I use frozen broccoli for this Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli florets work wonderfully as a substitute for fresh. Add them directly to the simmering broth. Cook until tender, which might take a few minutes longer than fresh broccoli. It’s a convenient option for this low-carb soup.

How can I make my Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup even thicker?

For a thicker consistency, you can use a small amount of xanthan gum, about 1/4 teaspoon. Whisk it in at the end of cooking. Alternatively, you can reserve a portion of the cooked broccoli. Blend it separately, then stir it back into the soup for natural thickening. This makes your cheddar broccoli soup extra luscious.

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