When cold weather hits or you’re simply craving something warm and satisfying without the carb overload, Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup is your go-to answer. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with nutrients, this soup is a keto superstar thanks to its balance of healthy fats, low carbs, and rich flavor. Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned low-carb eater, this recipe will become a staple in your meal prep routine.
And if you’re looking to spice things up with extra protein and flavor, check out our hearty Instant Pot Ham Cheese Broccoli Soup, packed with the same keto-friendly goodness—just with an irresistible twist.
Table of Contents
Why Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup Is the Perfect Low-Carb Comfort Food
What Makes Broccoli Cheese Soup a Keto Favorite
Keto isn’t just about bacon and butter—it’s about balance. That’s where keto broccoli cheese soup fits perfectly. Broccoli is one of the most keto-compatible vegetables, loaded with fiber and vitamins but light on carbs. Combine that with full-fat cheese and cream, and you’ve got a luxurious comfort food that aligns with your keto macros.
This soup delivers big flavor while keeping net carbs in check, making it ideal for lunch, dinner, or even batch prep for the week. Plus, it’s family-friendly and satisfying enough for even non-keto eaters.
Nutritional Benefits of Keto Ingredients Like Broccoli and Cheese
Let’s break it down:
- Broccoli provides fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants—all while clocking in at only 4g of net carbs per cup.
- Cheddar cheese brings protein and healthy fats, helping you hit your keto targets while staying full longer.
- Heavy cream and butter add a silky texture and high-fat content, essential for staying in ketosis.
Here’s a quick look at the nutrition profile of typical homemade keto broccoli cheese soup:
| Ingredient | Net Carbs (per serving) | Fat | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|
| Broccoli (1 cup) | 4g | 0g | 3g |
| Cheddar Cheese (1/2 cup) | 1g | 9g | 7g |
| Heavy Cream (2 tbsp) | <1g | 11g | 0g |
Not only is this soup rich and satisfying, but it also checks all the boxes for a keto-approved meal—low in carbs, high in fat, and nourishing.
Ingredients for Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup
Best Keto-Friendly Cheese Options for Soup
Cheese isn’t just a flavor booster in keto broccoli cheese soup—it’s also a nutritional workhorse. Choosing the right cheese helps you maintain ketosis and build creaminess without unwanted carbs.
Here are the top cheese options:
- Sharp Cheddar: The classic choice. Melts smoothly and brings bold flavor with just 1g of carbs per ounce.
- Cream Cheese: Adds rich texture and helps thicken the soup. Choose full-fat versions with <1g net carbs per serving.
- Parmesan: A salty, umami-rich topping that deepens the flavor. Contains nearly zero carbs.
- Gruyère or Swiss: Great for a nutty twist if you want to change things up.
Always check the nutrition label—some pre-shredded cheeses contain anti-caking agents that can sneak in extra carbs.
Broccoli: A Crucial Low-Carb Vegetable in Keto Diets
Broccoli is one of the most keto-friendly vegetables, and it’s not just for texture—it’s loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Let’s break down why broccoli deserves the spotlight:
- Low in net carbs: About 4g per cup after subtracting fiber.
- High in fiber: Helps with digestion and staying full.
- Rich in micronutrients: Like vitamin C, calcium, and folate.
For soup, use either fresh or frozen broccoli florets. Just avoid pre-mixed frozen blends with added sugars or sauces.
You can even blend part of the broccoli into the soup base to make it thicker and creamier without adding flour or starch.
Hidden Carbs in Soup Ingredients to Avoid
Even in homemade recipes, carbs can sneak in. Here’s what to avoid when building your keto broccoli cheese soup:
- Flour, cornstarch, or roux: Traditional thickeners loaded with carbs.
- Milk: Especially low-fat varieties. Use heavy cream or unsweetened almond milk instead.
- Processed cheese products: Think cheese sauces or dips—they often include starches and sugars.
- Pre-made broths: Check for added sugar or dextrose. Go for bone broth or keto-certified brands.
Need help modifying other soup recipes to be keto-compliant? Don’t miss our guide to adapting soup recipes for a keto lifestyle.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Creamy Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup
Kitchen Tools and Prep Tips
Before jumping into cooking, make sure you’ve got the right tools on hand. Keto soup recipes are simple, but the right prep and cookware make all the difference.
Essential Tools:
- Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven – for even heating and simmering.
- Immersion Blender – to blend part of the soup for a creamy base.
- Sharp Knife & Cutting Board – for prepping broccoli and onions.
- Measuring Cups/Spoons – to keep your macros in check.
Pro Prep Tips:
- Chop broccoli into small florets for faster cooking.
- Shred cheese fresh instead of buying pre-shredded to avoid extra carbs from starches.
- Let cream cheese soften at room temperature for easier melting.
Cooking Instructions and Simmering Techniques
Here’s the ultimate keto-approved way to make broccoli cheese soup that’s smooth, rich, and low-carb:
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Broccoli florets (fresh or frozen) | 4 cups |
| Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded | 2 cups |
| Cream cheese | 4 oz |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Chicken or bone broth (low-carb) | 3 cups |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Onion, finely chopped (optional) | ¼ cup |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Xanthan gum (optional, for thickening) | ½ tsp |
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics
In a large soup pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes). - Add Broccoli and Broth
Stir in broccoli florets and pour in the broth. Cover and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the broccoli is very tender. - Blend the Base
Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. Leave some chunks for texture, or blend it completely smooth—your choice. - Add Dairy and Melt the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in cream cheese until fully melted, then add heavy cream and shredded cheddar. Stir constantly until cheese is melted and soup is smooth. - Adjust Thickness (Optional)
For a thicker soup, sprinkle in xanthan gum and stir well. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens. - Season and Serve
Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or crispy bacon bits if desired.
Storage Note: This soup thickens more as it cools, making it perfect for meal prep!
Looking to add more protein or switch up the texture? Try this flavorful Instant Pot Ham Cheese Broccoli Soup a delicious variation featuring keto-friendly ham and an easy pressure-cooked method.
Nutritional Breakdown and Carb Count
How Many Carbs Are in Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup?
The most common question with any keto dish is: How many carbs does it have? Luckily, keto broccoli cheese soup is naturally low in net carbs—especially when made at home with the right ingredients.
Here’s a typical breakdown per 1-cup serving of homemade keto broccoli cheese soup:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280–310 kcal |
| Net Carbs | 4–5g |
| Total Carbs | 6–7g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Fat | 25–28g |
| Protein | 10–12g |
Pro Tip: Always subtract fiber from total carbs to get net carbs, which is what matters most for keto tracking.
The numbers can shift slightly based on your ingredient choices. For example, using extra cheese or cream will increase fat and calories, while using low-carb broth helps keep carbs down.
Calorie, Fat, and Protein Content Per Serving
A keto-friendly soup doesn’t just focus on carbs—it must balance fat and protein to support ketosis. Here’s how keto broccoli cheese soup fits perfectly into your macros:
- Fat: With butter, cheese, and cream, you’ll get a high dose of healthy fats to keep you full and energized.
- Protein: The cheese and optional bone broth provide ample protein to support muscle maintenance.
- Low Carb: This soup keeps you in ketosis with less than 5g net carbs per serving.
If you’re tracking your meals using a macro calculator or a keto app, plug in these numbers for more accuracy. You can also tweak your portion size or ingredients to better suit your specific needs.
Looking for protein-packed alternatives or upgrades? Don’t miss our Instant Pot Ham Cheese Broccoli Soup, where ham boosts protein without spiking carbs.
Print
Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup
- Total Time: 35mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This rich and creamy Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup is the perfect low-carb comfort food. Made with fresh broccoli, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream, it’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s gluten-free and keto-friendly—ready in just 35 minutes!
Ingredients
- 3 cups broccoli (chopped)
- 1.5 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 oz cream cheese
- 2 cups chicken or veggie broth
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, simmer broth and broccoli until tender.
- Stir in cream, cream cheese, and seasonings.
- Add cheddar cheese and stir until fully melted.
- Blend for smoothness if desired. Serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: ~310 per serving
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
Keto Store-Bought Options — Are They Truly Keto?
Is Campbell’s Broccoli Cheese Soup Keto Friendly?
Short answer: Not really.
While it sounds like a good fit, Campbell’s Broccoli Cheese Soup doesn’t qualify as a true keto broccoli cheese soup. The condensed version may look similar but contains hidden carbs from starches and added sugars that make it a poor choice for a ketogenic diet.
Here’s a breakdown of one ½-cup serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Carbs | 12g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 6g |
These numbers may not seem outrageous, but if you’re sticking to a daily carb limit, even one bowl could kick you out of ketosis. The presence of cornstarch, food starch, and sugar disqualifies this soup from the keto-friendly list.
If you’re craving a safe, filling option, you’re better off preparing a homemade keto broccoli cheese soup where you control every ingredient—no thickeners, no added sugars, just clean keto-friendly comfort food.
Best Store-Bought Brands vs Homemade Version
Some brands market their soups as low-carb, but they still don’t compare to a homemade keto broccoli cheese soup in terms of freshness, fat content, or carb control.
| Brand | Net Carbs | Keto-Friendly? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Campbell’s | 12g | ❌ No | High in starch and sugar |
| Kettle & Fire | 4g | ✅ Yes | Uses bone broth and clean fats |
| Proper Good | 5g | ✅ Yes | Shelf-stable, clean label |
| Homemade | 4–5g | ✅ Yes | Ultimate control and flavor |
A bowl of freshly made keto broccoli cheese soup gives you all the creamy comfort you want without compromising your low-carb lifestyle.
Looking for a twist? Try our Instant Pot Ham Cheese Broccoli Soup, where the same creamy goodness is paired with rich, smoky ham for an unforgettable keto meal.
Delicious Variations to Spice Up Your Keto Broccoli Cheese Soup
Adding Bacon, Cauliflower, or Chicken for Extra Flavor
You don’t have to stick with the classic formula to enjoy keto broccoli cheese soup. In fact, adding protein or extra low-carb veggies is a great way to keep things interesting while staying in ketosis.
Bacon Crumbles
- Toss in some crispy bacon for smoky depth and crunch.
- A favorite topping in the keto broccoli cheese soup world because it adds fat with no carbs.
Cauliflower
- Like broccoli, cauliflower is super low in carbs and blends easily.
- Use it to bulk up your keto broccoli cheese soup or replace half the broccoli for a flavor twist.
Shredded Chicken
- Cooked, shredded chicken gives your soup an extra dose of protein without the carbs.
- Stir it in during the final simmer for a one-pot meal that turns your keto broccoli cheese soup into a dinner-worthy dish.
Not sure how to combine all those add-ins without overthinking it? Our Instant Pot Ham Cheese Broccoli Soup simplifies the process with perfectly balanced ingredients that cook together in one step.
Check out this keto-friendly ham and broccoli soup variation for quick weeknight meals.
Vegan or Dairy-Free Keto Alternatives
Even if you’re dairy-free or plant-based, you can still enjoy a hearty keto broccoli cheese soup. Substitutes like coconut cream and vegan cheese can bring the creaminess while keeping your carbs in check.
- Use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk as your base.
- Swap in dairy-free cheese alternatives like Violife or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Be sure to review labels—some plant-based products hide starches or sugars that can disrupt the keto macros in your soup.
Whether you go traditional or modern, there are endless ways to keep your keto broccoli cheese soup delicious, interesting, and low-carb.
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FAQ
Can I eat broccoli cheese soup on keto?
Yes, you absolutely can—as long as it’s made with keto-friendly ingredients. Traditional recipes often include flour or starchy thickeners, which are high in carbs. However, keto broccoli cheese soup uses low-carb vegetables like broccoli, full-fat dairy like heavy cream and cheese, and no flour. It’s a perfect keto-compliant comfort food when prepared correctly.
How many carbs are in cheesy broccoli soup?
That depends on the ingredients. A typical homemade keto broccoli cheese soup has around 4 to 6 grams of net carbs per serving, while store-bought versions can contain 15 to 20 grams or more, mostly due to added thickeners and starches. Always check nutrition labels or make it at home to keep your carb intake in check.
Is Campbell’s broccoli cheese soup keto friendly?
Not really. Campbell’s Broccoli Cheese Soup contains modified food starch, wheat flour, and other high-carb additives, making it unsuitable for a strict keto diet. One serving can have over 15g of net carbs, which may use up your entire carb limit for the day. It’s better to make your own version at home using keto-friendly ingredients.
Are broccoli and cheese considered keto?
Yes, both are keto-approved! Broccoli is a low-carb, high-fiber vegetable, rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Cheese, especially full-fat varieties like cheddar or cream cheese, is high in fat and low in carbs—ideal for keto. Together, they make a delicious and nutritious combo for any low-carb meal.
Conclusion
Keto broccoli cheese soup is the kind of meal that proves you don’t have to sacrifice comfort food when eating low carb. Rich, creamy, and full of nutrients, this soup is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare and customize. Whether you’re trying to lose weight, manage blood sugar, or just enjoy a healthy meal, this recipe belongs in your kitchen rotation.
