If you’re looking for a rich and satisfying soup that won’t weigh you down, this creamy broccoli cheddar soup is the answer. It’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for cozy nights or when you need a quick meal. The secret? It’s thickened with pureed cauliflower, giving you a nutrient boost without the extra carbs. Trust me, this is comfort food that fits your low-carb lifestyle.
Imagine a bowl of smooth, velvety soup that warms you from the inside out. The combination of tender broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and indulgent, all while keeping it low in carbohydrates. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, this soup is a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies.
Deliciously Creamy Low-Carb Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This creamy broccoli cheddar soup offers a delightful twist on a classic favorite.
It achieves a rich and satisfying texture without relying on heavy cream or flour.
Instead, pureed cauliflower serves as a thickener, introducing extra nutrients while keeping carbohydrate levels low.
Each spoonful bursts with flavor, making it an excellent choice for those wishing to indulge in comfort food without compromising on health.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare this soup, gather a medley of fresh ingredients.
A medium head of broccoli, cut into florets, pairs beautifully with a cup of cauliflower florets.
You’ll also need vegetable or chicken broth for depth, along with shredded sharp cheddar cheese for that unmistakable flavor.
Don’t forget the aromatics: a small chopped onion and minced garlic will add a fragrant base.
A drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper will enhance the overall taste, while chopped chives or parsley can add a finishing touch for garnish.
Preparation Steps
Start by prepping your vegetables; chop the broccoli and cauliflower into manageable florets, mince the garlic, and chop the onion.
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until they become fragrant and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
Next, add the cauliflower florets along with the broth, bringing the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to simmer for about 10 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender.
This stage sets the foundation for your creamy texture.
Blending for Creaminess
Once cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the cauliflower mixture until smooth.
If you prefer a bit of texture, consider blending only half of the mixture, allowing for some chunks of cauliflower to remain.
After blending, stir in the broccoli florets and let them simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes.
You want the broccoli to turn a vibrant green and become tender while retaining its shape.
Add the Cheese
The final step in this culinary journey is to gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese into the pot, stirring until it melts and integrates into the soup, creating a creamy consistency.
Before serving, make sure to adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences.
This moment is crucial for achieving a well-balanced flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
To serve, ladle the soup into rustic bowls, allowing its warm, inviting appearance to set the stage for your dining experience.
A sprinkle of chopped chives or parsley on top adds a splash of color and freshness, enhancing the overall presentation.
Consider pairing this soup with a slice of low-carb bread for a complete meal.
The combination of textures and flavors will create a cozy dining atmosphere, perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting lunch.
Deliciously Creamy Low-Carb Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This creamy broccoli cheddar soup is a unique take on a classic favorite. It’s rich and satisfying, made without heavy cream or flour, and thickened with pureed cauliflower for extra nutrients. Every spoonful is packed with flavor, making it a perfect dish for anyone looking to enjoy a low-carb treat.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Vegetables: Chop the broccoli and cauliflower into small florets. Mince the garlic and chop the onion.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the Cauliflower: Add the cauliflower florets and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the cauliflower is tender, about 10 minutes.
- Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the cauliflower mixture until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the mixture.
- Add Broccoli and Cheese: Stir in the broccoli florets and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Season and Serve: Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chives or parsley.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 bowls
- Calories: 210kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 8g