Rich & Creamy Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Ultimate Comfort
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Ever craved a creamy, cheesy soup but felt guilty about the carbs? đ
Say hello to your new best friend: Rich Creamy Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
This recipe is comfort food reimagined â low-carb, high-flavor, and ridiculously easy to make. đ
The Magic of This Recipe
This soup is the ultimate keto-friendly comfort food. Itâs rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, but without the guilt. The secret? A velvety base made from heavy cream and sharp cheddar, combined with tender broccoli florets that soak up all that cheesy goodness.
What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity. You donât need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. In fact, you probably already have most of the ingredients in your fridge. Plus, itâs a one-pot wonder â less cleanup, more time to enjoy your soup.
And letâs not forget the macros. This soup is low in carbs but high in healthy fats, making it the perfect meal for anyone following a keto lifestyle. Itâs filling, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious.
Your Shopping List
- 2 cups broccoli florets â Fresh or frozen, but fresh gives the best texture.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese â Sharp cheddar packs a punch, but mild works too.
- 1 cup heavy cream â The key to that creamy, dreamy texture.
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth â Homemade or store-bought, just make sure itâs low-sodium.
- 1 small onion, diced â Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the cheese.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced â Because everythingâs better with garlic.
- 2 tbsp butter â For sautĂ©ing and adding richness.
- 1 tsp xanthan gum â A keto-friendly thickener that works like magic.
- Salt and pepper to taste â Donât skimp on seasoning!
How to Make It
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the broccoli: Toss in the broccoli florets and stir to coat them in the buttery goodness. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the broth: Add the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Thicken the soup: Sprinkle the xanthan gum over the soup while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. This will give your soup that perfect, velvety texture.
- Add the cream and cheese: Stir in the heavy cream, then gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Season and serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese if youâre feeling fancy.
Pro tip: If you want an extra creamy texture, blend half the soup with an immersion blender before adding the cheese. Itâs a game-changer! đ„
Common Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the broccoli: Mushy broccoli is a no-go. Cook it just until tender to keep that perfect bite.
- Not whisking the xanthan gum: If you donât whisk it in properly, youâll end up with clumps. Nobody wants lumpy soup.
- Using pre-shredded cheese: It often contains anti-caking agents that can make your soup grainy. Shred your own cheese for the smoothest results.
- Skipping the seasoning: Broth and cheese can vary in saltiness, so always taste and adjust before serving.
Creative Twists and Tips
Want to take your soup to the next level? Here are some ideas:
- Add protein: Toss in some cooked chicken, bacon, or even sausage for a heartier meal.
- Spice it up: A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can add a nice kick.
- Go green: Stir in some spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrients.
- Make it dairy-free: Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Pro tip: This soup freezes beautifully! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Common Questions Answered
- Can I use frozen broccoli? Absolutely! Just thaw and drain it well to avoid watering down your soup.
- What can I use instead of xanthan gum? Try 1-2 tbsp of cream cheese or a slurry of 1 tbsp almond flour mixed with water.
- Is this soup kid-friendly? Yes! Itâs cheesy and creamy â kids usually love it. Just skip the spicy add-ins if theyâre not fans.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker? Sure! Sauté the onions and garlic first, then add everything except the cream and cheese. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then stir in the cream and cheese before serving.
- How do I store leftovers? Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid separating.
- Can I double the recipe? Of course! Just use a larger pot and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Your Culinary Journey
There you have it â the ultimate Rich Creamy Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Itâs comfort food without the compromise, and itâs ready in under 30 minutes. Whether youâre keto or just looking for a delicious, easy meal, this soup is a winner.
So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and get cooking. Your taste buds (and your waistline) will thank you. đ„Ł