Tired of bland, watery keto soups that leave you unsatisfied? The Best Keto Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe Ever Made is about to change your low-carb soup game forever. This velvety, cheese-laden comfort bowl delivers all the rich, satisfying flavors you crave without the carbs that would kick you out of ketosis.
Hi, I’m Emma, the heart behind GusRecipes, and this keto broccoli cheddar soup has a special place in my kitchen. When I first started my keto journey, I desperately missed those creamy, comforting soups that warm both body and soul. After countless test batches (and some memorable failures!), I perfected this recipe that my family now requests weekly, even the non-keto folks!
In this guide, I’ll share my secrets for achieving that perfect silky texture, tips for selecting the best ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and clever variations to keep this soup exciting meal after meal. Whether you’re a keto veteran or just beginning your low-carb journey, this soup will become a cherished recipe in your collection.
Why This Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe Works
● Uses readily available keto-friendly ingredients you likely already have on hand
● Comes together in under 30 minutes for quick weeknight comfort
● Delivers the perfect balance of fat and protein while keeping carbs minimal
● Provides deep flavor satisfaction that curbs cravings and keeps you full
● Freezes beautifully for meal prep convenience
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Best Broccoli for Keto Soup
Fresh broccoli provides the best texture and flavor, but frozen works in a pinch (just reduce cooking time). Look for bright green heads with tight florets and firm stalks. Don’t waste those stems – they add fantastic texture and nutrition to your keto soup!
Cheese Selection for Keto Broccoli Soup
Opt for sharp or extra-sharp cheddar for maximum flavor with minimal quantity. Always grate your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded varieties, which contain anti-caking agents and unnecessary carbs. A mixture of cheddar and Gruyère creates depth of flavor true cheese lovers will appreciate.
Keto-Friendly Thickeners
Traditional flour thickeners are replaced with cream cheese, heavy cream, and xanthan gum in this keto broccoli cheddar soup. These ingredients create the perfect velvety texture without adding carbs that would compromise your ketosis.
Ingredients & Prep for Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Keto Soup Base Essentials
- Fresh broccoli (4 cups florets and stems, chopped)
- Chicken broth (4 cups, preferably homemade or low-sodium)
- Yellow onion (1/4 cup, finely diced)
- Garlic (2-3 cloves, minced)
- Butter (3 tablespoons, grass-fed preferred)
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon, extra virgin)
Keto-Friendly Dairy Components
- Heavy cream (1 cup)
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened)
- Sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups, freshly grated)
- Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, freshly grated)
Keto Seasonings
- Mustard powder (1/2 teaspoon)
- Xanthan gum (1/4 teaspoon)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional but recommended)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Pre-Cooking Prep for Keto Soup
- Wash and chop broccoli into small, even florets (save stems and chop finely)
- Finely dice onion and mince garlic
- Grate all cheeses by hand and set aside
- Have all ingredients measured and ready before beginning
Cooking Method for Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat
- Add onion and cook until translucent (about 3-4 minutes)
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant
- Pour in chicken broth and add chopped broccoli stems (save florets for later)
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes
- Add broccoli florets and continue to simmer for 7-8 minutes until broccoli is tender but not mushy
- Reduce heat to low and add cream cheese, stirring until completely melted
- Sprinkle in xanthan gum while whisking continuously to prevent clumps
- Pour in heavy cream and add mustard powder and nutmeg
- Simmer for 5 minutes to allow soup to thicken slightly
- Remove from heat and gradually stir in grated cheddar and Parmesan, handful by handful, allowing each addition to melt before adding more
Doneness Check for Keto Broccoli Soup
Your keto broccoli cheddar soup is ready when:
- Broccoli is tender but still has slight resistance when pierced with a fork
- Soup coats the back of a spoon with a silky consistency
- All cheese is completely melted with no stringy bits
Resting Your Keto Soup
Allow the soup to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld and the soup to achieve the perfect consistency. If desired, use an immersion blender to partially blend for a creamier texture while leaving some broccoli pieces intact.
Pro Tips for Perfect Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Avoiding Common Keto Soup Mistakes
- Never boil the soup after adding dairy – this causes separation
- Add cheese with heat turned off to prevent clumping and greasiness
- Use block cheese and grate it yourself – pre-shredded has anti-caking agents that can make soup grainy
- Don’t overcook the broccoli or you’ll lose the bright color and nutrition
Tool Recommendations for Keto Soup Success
- Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven for even heat distribution
- Immersion blender for custom texture control
- Silicone whisk to prevent scratching your cookware
- Microplane for grating hard cheeses like Parmesan
Storage & Reheating Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
- Freeze flat in ziplock bags for up to 2 months
- Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently
- Add a splash of heavy cream when reheating if soup is too thick
Looking for more delicious keto recipes? Check out my Pinterest page where I’ve curated hundreds of low-carb meal ideas that will keep your keto journey flavorful and exciting!
Flavor Variations for Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Spicy Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or 1-2 tablespoons of diced jalapeños for a heat kick that enhances the cheese flavor without adding carbs.
Bacon Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Cook 4-6 slices of bacon until crisp, crumble and use the bacon fat instead of butter. Sprinkle crispy bacon pieces on top for added crunch and flavor.
Gourmet Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Replace half the cheddar with smoked gouda or fontina cheese for an elevated flavor profile perfect for special occasions.
| Variation | Added Ingredients | Carbs Per Serving | Prep Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic | As written | 5g net carbs | Perfect base recipe |
| Spicy | Cayenne or jalapeños | 5.5g net carbs | Add pepper slowly to taste |
| Loaded | Bacon, chives, sour cream | 6g net carbs | Reserve some toppings for garnish |
| Gourmet | Specialty cheeses, truffle oil | 5g net carbs | Just a few drops of truffle oil go a long way |
Serving Suggestions for Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Serve in hollowed-out roasted cauliflower “bowls” for an impressive presentation
- Top with extra shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and finely chopped chives
- Accompany with keto cheese crisps or almond flour crackers for dipping
- Pair with a simple mixed green salad dressed in olive oil and lemon for a complete meal

FAQs About Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Can I make this keto soup dairy-free?
Unfortunately, this particular recipe relies heavily on dairy for its creamy texture and flavor. For a dairy-free option, consider a coconut milk-based soup with nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
Why did my cheese clump instead of melting smoothly?
This typically happens when heat is too high or cheese is added too quickly. Always remove the pot from heat, add cheese gradually, and stir continuously.
How can I make this soup thicker without adding carbs?
Add an extra ounce of cream cheese or increase xanthan gum to 1/2 teaspoon. You can also puree more of the broccoli to create a naturally thicker texture.
Is this keto soup good for meal prep?
Absolutely! This soup reheats beautifully and the flavors often improve after a day in the refrigerator. Perfect for weekly meal prep.
Conclusion
The Best Keto Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe Ever Made is more than just a meal—it’s proof that keto eating can be deeply satisfying and comforting. With its rich, cheesy goodness and nutritious broccoli, this soup nourishes both body and soul while keeping you firmly on your low-carb path.
I’d love to see your soup creations! Tag @GusRecipes on social media or leave a comment below sharing your experience. And remember, cooking isn’t just about following instructions it’s about making something that brings joy to your table. So grab your soup pot, gather these simple ingredients, and treat yourself to a bowl of keto comfort that will have everyone asking for seconds!
PrintBest Keto Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe Ever Made
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A rich and comforting keto-friendly broccoli cheddar soup that’s luxuriously creamy, loaded with sharp cheddar cheese, and bursting with flavor the perfect low-carb comfort food for cozy nights.
Ingredients
2 tbsp butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 tsp xanthan gum (optional, for thickening)
Extra cheddar and steamed broccoli florets for garnish
Instructions
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened and fragrant.
3. Add chopped broccoli and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes until broccoli is tender.
5. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth (or leave some texture if preferred).
6. Stir in heavy cream, cheddar cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. Simmer on low until cheese is fully melted and soup is creamy.
8. If desired, sprinkle in xanthan gum and whisk until thickened.
9. Serve hot, topped with extra cheddar and broccoli florets.
Notes
For added protein, stir in shredded chicken or cooked bacon.
You can use frozen broccoli — just thaw and drain before cooking.
Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days; reheat gently to avoid curdling.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: keto broccoli cheddar soup, low carb soup, creamy broccoli soup, keto comfort food
