When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the rich and creamy delight of broccoli and cheddar cheese soup. This keto-friendly version offers all the satisfaction without the carb overload. It's an excellent low-carb option for any meal.
Why This Recipe Works
This keto broccoli cheddar soup is designed to be creamy, delicious, and very low in carbs. The consistency is thinner and more broth-like, as it avoids traditional thickening agents like roux or flour. By using fresh ingredients and focusing on flavor, this soup hits the spot without relying on high-carb ingredients.
One of the key things to remember when following a keto diet is that expectations are important. While keto recreations of classic dishes are amazing, they might not taste exactly like their high-carb counterparts. This recipe embraces the unique flavors and textures that come with using fresher, low-carb ingredients.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting soup:
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are preferred for the best texture. Broccoli stems or broccolini can also be used. Frozen broccoli works in a pinch, but fresh is ideal.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides the best flavor, but jarred garlic can be used for convenience.
- Butter: Used for sautéing the garlic and adding richness to the soup. Ghee can be used as an alternative.
- Broth: Chicken broth is recommended, but reduced sodium store-bought broth, bone broth (for extra nutrition), or vegetable broth (for a vegetarian option) can also be used.
- Heavy Cream: Heavy whipping cream gives the richest taste and helps thicken the soup as it simmers.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is preferred. Pre-shredded cheese that comes in a bag works best, as it is less prone to clumping.
- Onions and Carrots: These add depth of flavor to the soup.
- Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess and richness to the soup.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Bacon crumbles (optional): For added flavor and texture as a garnish.
- Xanthan gum (optional): For thickening the soup.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté diced onions and garlic until softened and translucent.
- Add Broth and Broccoli: Add broth and broccoli to the pot. Cook broccoli until tender. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired spices.
- Incorporate Cream Cheese: In a small bowl, heat cream cheese in the microwave for about 30 seconds until softened and easily stirred.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Stir heavy whipping cream and cream cheese into the soup; bring to a boil. Turn off the heat and quickly stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Thicken (Optional): Stir in xanthan gum, if desired, to thicken the soup. Allow it to thicken.
- Serve: Serve hot with bacon crumbles as a garnish.
Tips for the Perfect Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Cut Broccoli Small: Smaller broccoli florets cook faster, and cheese tends to stick to them less.
- Keep Heat Low When Adding Cheese: This is crucial to prevent the cheese from clumping.
- Add Cheese Gradually: Add shredded cheddar cheese gradually, stirring constantly until melted.
- Use Pre-Shredded Cheese or a De-Clumping Agent: Pre-shredded cheese is less prone to clumping. Alternatively, toss the shredded cheese in arrowroot powder or cornstarch before adding it to the soup to help it melt better and thicken the soup.
- Sauté Vegetables: Sauté onions and carrots in butter (or ghee) in a large stock pot on the stovetop until they turn translucent. Add the garlic.
- Consider a Roux: Next, add the flour to make a roux and allow it cook for at least 1-2 minutes, stirring with a whisk until there are no lumps.
Customization Options
- Spices: Experiment with your favorite spices. Italian seasoning is a great choice.
- Other Vegetables: Sauté onions (yellow onion works well) together with the garlic, or add cauliflower, carrots, or bell peppers later on. Like a vegetable soup, you can add just about any veggie you like.
- Proteins: Make it a complete meal with shredded chicken or ground sausage. If using bacon, go easy on anything that has added salt.
- Thickness: For a thicker soup, add more cheese, puree part of the soup, or use a thickener like arrowroot powder or cornstarch.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Bowl: Serve in a bowl with a spoon. Garnish with croutons, herbs, or extra cheese.
- Bread Bowl: Hollow out a loaf of bread and pour the soup inside.
- Baked Potato: Ladle broccoli and cheese soup over a baked potato for a hearty meal.
Storage and Reheating
- Store: Keep the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It tastes just as good for days!
- Reheat: Warm up the soup on the stovetop over low heat, or in the microwave on medium to low power. Stir frequently while reheating.
- Freeze: Freeze individual portions for lunch.
Nutritional Information
This keto broccoli cheddar soup is high in fat, moderate in protein, and low in carbs, making it perfect for those following a ketogenic diet. The ratio is approximately 86% Fat, 6.3% Carbs, and 8% Protein. Remember, nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
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