Are you craving a comforting bowl of creamy broccoli cheese soup but sticking to your ketogenic diet? Fear not! This recipe delivers all the cheesy goodness without derailing your macros. This keto broccoli cheese soup is packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for a cozy night in or a satisfying lunch. We'll explore variations, answer frequently asked questions, and help you master this delicious low-carb classic.
What Makes This Broccoli Cheese Soup Keto-Friendly?
The key to a successful keto broccoli cheese soup lies in ingredient selection. We're focusing on low-carb, healthy fats, and plenty of flavor. Traditional broccoli cheese soup often relies on flour or cornstarch for thickening, which are high in carbohydrates. This recipe cleverly avoids these by utilizing alternative thickening methods, resulting in a creamy, satisfying texture without the carb overload. We'll explore these methods further below.
Is Broccoli Keto?
Yes, broccoli is a fantastic keto-friendly vegetable. It's low in net carbs and packed with essential vitamins and minerals. A cup of broccoli florets contains approximately 5 grams of net carbs, making it a perfect addition to a keto diet. Feel free to add extra broccoli for a heartier soup!
How Many Carbs Are in Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup?
The carb count will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. However, a typical serving of this keto broccoli cheese soup will generally contain between 5-7 grams of net carbs. Remember to always check your nutrition labels and adjust ingredients as needed to keep within your daily carb limit.
Can I Make This Soup in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! An Instant Pot is a fantastic tool for making this soup quickly and efficiently. The cooking time will be significantly reduced, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Simply sauté the vegetables as directed, then add the remaining ingredients and pressure cook according to the Instant Pot’s instructions. Check for doneness and adjust cooking time as necessary, as Instant Pots can vary slightly.
What Kind of Cheese Is Best for Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup?
Sharp cheddar cheese is a classic choice for broccoli cheese soup, and it works perfectly in this keto version. However, feel free to experiment with other keto-friendly cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or a blend of your favorites. Each cheese will offer a slightly different flavor profile, adding depth and complexity to your soup.
How to Thicken Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup Without Flour?
Traditional recipes often use flour or cornstarch as thickeners, but these are high in carbohydrates. For a keto-friendly alternative, we recommend using:
- Heavy Cream: Heavy cream adds richness and helps to create a naturally thick and creamy texture.
- Nutritional Yeast: While not a direct thickener, nutritional yeast contributes a cheesy, umami flavor and helps create a more robust consistency.
By skillfully combining these ingredients, we achieve a luxuriously thick soup without relying on carb-laden thickeners.
Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe (Yields approximately 6 servings)
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large head of broccoli, chopped into florets
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (optional, for added cheesy flavor and thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add broccoli florets and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until broccoli is tender.
- Stir in heavy cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and nutritional yeast (if using). Cook until cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Enjoy your delicious and keto-friendly broccoli cheese soup! Remember to adjust seasonings to your liking. This recipe is a flexible base; feel free to experiment with different cheeses and spices. Enjoy!
