About This Recipe

Broccoli cheddar soup is one of those timeless comfort foods, and this keto version gives you all the rich, cheesy flavor you love without the carbs. Made with fresh broccoli, aromatic onions, heavy cream, and sharp cheddar cheese, this soup is thick, creamy, and full of flavor while still staying keto-friendly. Instead of flour or starches, the soup relies on a combination of cream, cheese, and a gentle simmer to achieve that luscious, silky texture.

The magic lies in layering flavors: first by sautéing onion and garlic in butter, then simmering broccoli in broth until perfectly tender, and finally blending part of the mixture for a smooth base. The addition of sharp cheddar cheese brings a bold, savory depth while heavy cream ensures every spoonful is velvety and satisfying. With only a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe comes together quickly—making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave comfort food.

One of the best things about this soup is its flexibility. You can adjust the consistency by blending more or less of the broccoli, or keep some chunks for a heartier texture. Spice lovers can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, paprika, or even a splash of hot sauce for a little kick. For extra protein, stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or crispy bacon. Because it’s low in carbs and high in fat, this soup also fits seamlessly into a keto or low-carb lifestyle while still being filling and nourishing.

Whether served as a main dish with a side of keto bread or as a starter for a larger meal, this broccoli cheddar soup is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Leftovers store beautifully in the fridge and reheat well, making it ideal for meal prep. Once you make this creamy, cheesy, low-carb soup, you’ll never go back to restaurant versions loaded with flour and hidden carbs.

Jump to Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy, creamy, and ultra comforting
Low carb and gluten-free
Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
Customizable thickness and flavor
Perfect for meal prep

Servings: 6

Ingredients

Base
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 medium heads)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
- Extra shredded cheddar
- Crispy bacon crumbles
- Fresh parsley or chives

Instructions

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add broccoli florets and broth. Bring to a simmer and cook 10–12 minutes until broccoli is tender.
Use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup until creamy, leaving some chunks for texture.
Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth and melted.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust thickness by adding more broth if needed.
Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra cheese, bacon, or herbs if desired.

Nutrition

(per serving)

Calories: ~320
Fat: ~27 g
Protein: ~14 g
Net Carbs: ~6 g
Fiber: ~2 g

FAQ

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just add it directly to the broth and simmer until tender.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely—use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I freeze this soup?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Reheat gently to avoid separating the cream.

Why is my soup grainy?
Graininess can happen if the cheese is added over too high heat. Lower the heat before stirring in cheddar.

Variations & Substitutions

Add shredded chicken for more protein
Use half cheddar and half gouda for a smokier flavor
Stir in a dash of cayenne pepper or paprika for spice
Replace cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option

Serving Suggestions

Serve with keto cloud bread or almond flour biscuits
Pair with a crisp side salad for a light meal
Top with extra cheddar and bacon for a “loaded soup” vibe

Recipe Card

Creamy Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Name: Creamy Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Low Carb / Keto
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 medium heads); 2 tbsp butter; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste

Rich, cheesy, and comforting, this creamy keto broccoli cheddar soup is a low-carb twist on a classic comfort food—perfect for cozy weeknights.

Yield: 4 servings • Prep: 10 min • Cook: 20 min • Total: 30 min

Ingredients

4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 medium heads)
2 tbsp butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and sauté 3–4 minutes.
Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
Add broccoli and broth. Simmer 10–12 minutes until broccoli is tender.
Blend part of the soup with an immersion blender for a creamy texture.
Stir in cream and cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth and melted.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust thickness with extra broth if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese, bacon, or herbs.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories: 320
Fat: 27 g
Protein: 14 g
Net Carbs: 6 g
Fiber: 2 g

Soup • Low Carb / Keto • keto broccoli cheddar soup, low carb soup, cheesy keto soup

Final Thoughts

Loved this Creamy Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup? Save it on Pinterest, share it on Instagram, and explore my other keto soup and comfort food recipes for cozy low-carb inspiration!