This Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup is exactly what you need to make this winter! Cheesy, thick, deliciously quick and easy, as well as keto and low-carb! No flour or starches are used in this soup thickening process – thickening happens with the use of heavy cream, cream cheese and cheddar cheese, resulting in a truly thick and creamy soup. We also add in some garlic, onion, spices for extra depth of flavor and of course a pop of color (sorry, I’m a complete sucker for pretty bright colors like red or green!). Fresh broccoli gets the job done in the way of nutrients and fiber, plus a beautiful color as well.
It’s hearty enough to be a main-dish soup, though, but it also sings when served as a starter or side soup. Diced chicken, bacon or sausage can be spooned in, too, if extra protein and flavor are calling your name. It’s totally customizable sub in cheddar for another cheese, such as Gouda or Monterey Jack, for a different twist.
The glory is a bowl of soup that seems luxurious yet remains low carb. It’s quick to get on the table, often happening in fewer than 30 minutes, so it’s a good choice for weeknight suppers or meal prep. This keto broccoli cheese soup is jam packed to the brim with vitamins, minerals, all that good stuff, and will fill you up with creamy, tangy, cheese-ladened, delicate ribbons of bright broccoli.
Keto Broccoli Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut broccoli into small florets for speedier cooking
- In a pot, melt butter and olive oil on medium heat, then add onion and garlic, sautéing for 3–4 minutes or until fragrant
- Add broccoli florets and broth; cover and simmer 10 minutes or until tender
- Mean while if you’re using a countertop blender, transfer a third to a half of the soup to large bowl away from the heat and let cool a bit; then puree the mixture in the blender (or use an immersion blender) until largely smooth with some texture
- Whisk in cream, then paprika, mustard powder, salt and pepper; cook over low heat for5 minutes but do not allow to boil
- Slowly whisk in cheddar and parmesan until melted and combined, with heat low
- Thin or thicken as desired by simmering soup uncovered or adding broth
- Ladle into bowls and top you wish too with cheese, bacon or chives
Notes
Flavour Profile of Keto Broccoli Cheese
- Cheesy Richness
- The key flavor is that of sharp cheddar cheese, which is bold and tangy but also creamy.
- Cream cheese or heavy cream for additional silkeness.
- Fresh Vegetal Notes
- The broccoli adds a subtle earthy/green freshness that cuts through the richness of the cheese.
- When it simmers, it softens and melts seamlessly into the cream.
- Savory Depth
- Butter, onions and garlic provide an aromatic, flavorful base.
- Chicken or vegetable broth adds depth of umami.
- Subtle Sweetness
- Heavy cream imparts a subtle natural sweetness that helps balance the sharpness of the cheddar taste.
- Texture & Mouthfeel
- Rich, creamy and velveted by melted cheese and cream.
- Broccoli florets (blended or not) add bite and substance to the soup.
Keto Broccoli Cheese Nutrition and Calories
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | ~250–280 kcal |
| Total Fat | 21–23 g |
| – Saturated Fat | 13–14 g |
| Protein | 9–11 g |
| Total Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| – Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Net Carbs | 4 g |
| Sugar | 2 g (from broccoli & cream) |
| Cholesterol | ~60–70 mg |
| Sodium | ~500–600 mg |
FAQs
Q1. Is broccoli cheese soup keto-friendly?
A1. Yes! If made without any flour or cornstarch thickeners, it’s naturally low-carb, high-fat, and filling – which means keto!
Q2. What makes it keto?
A2. Instead of the traditional thickener of flour or potatoes, keto versions use:
- Heavy cream
- Cheddar cheese
- Cream cheese
- Once in a while, a little xanthan gum or cauliflower for added oomph.
Q3. How many carbs is broccoli and cheese soup keto?
A3. One serving (depending on what you are adding and the portion size) generally contains around 4-6 net carbs.
Q4. What type of cheese is best?
A4. Sharp cheddar cheese, for a good shot of flavor. You can also combine it with Monterey Jack, Colby or mozzarella for creaminess.
Q5. Can I make it dairy-free?
A5. Yes! Swap dairy with:
- A base of rich, creamy coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk.
- Dairy-free cheese alternatives for creaminess.
Hi, I’m Candice Knauer!
I’m passionate about creating delicious, healthy meals that make the keto lifestyle simple and enjoyable. What started as my personal journey into low-carb cooking has grown into a collection of recipes that I love sharing with others who want to feel their best while still enjoying great food.