Savory Keto Cheeseburger Bliss

Keto Low-Carb Cheeseburger Soup: A Comforting One-Pot Delight

Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of a classic cheeseburger reimagined in a comforting, low-carb soup! This Keto Low-Carb Cheeseburger Soup is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience designed for those who crave hearty, satisfying dishes while maintaining a ketogenic or low-carbohydrate lifestyle. It’s an effortlessly quick and easy one-pot dinner solution, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. Featuring wholesome ingredients like seasoned ground beef, creamy cheddar cheese, nutrient-dense cauliflower, and velvety cream cheese, this soup delivers incredible flavor without compromising your dietary goals. Elevate your bowl with an array of crunchy toppings such as crispy bacon, tangy pickles, fresh tomatoes, and more. Beyond its delicious taste, this healthy hamburger soup recipe is an excellent choice for meal prep, ensuring you have nutritious and flavorful leftovers throughout the week.

A vibrant bowl of Keto Low-Carb Cheeseburger Soup garnished with crispy bacon, sliced pickles, and fresh diced tomatoes, ready to be enjoyed.
Enjoying a hearty bowl of Keto Low-Carb Cheeseburger Soup.

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Why Choose Keto Low-Carb Cheeseburger Soup?

In the quest for delicious yet diet-friendly meals, this cheeseburger soup stands out as a true winner. Traditional cheeseburger soups often rely on potatoes or other high-carb thickeners, making them unsuitable for keto diets. However, this recipe ingeniously substitutes those starchy elements with cauliflower, transforming it into a gloriously creamy, low-carb, and keto-compliant dish. Not only does cauliflower significantly reduce the carb count, but it also adds a subtle earthy flavor and a pleasing texture that mimics potatoes when cooked until tender. With approximately 439 calories per serving, this soup offers a robust and filling meal that supports satiety and energy levels, key aspects of a successful keto journey.

Raw ingredients for keto cheeseburger soup: fresh ground beef, florets of cauliflower, and finely chopped onions.
The fresh, wholesome ingredients ready to be transformed into a delicious soup.
Key seasonings and liquids for keto cheeseburger soup: chicken broth, butter, Italian Seasoning, and dry mustard powder.
The essential flavor enhancers for a truly irresistible soup.

Table of Contents

Mastering Keto Cheeseburger Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this delectable Keto Cheeseburger Soup is simpler than you might imagine. The beauty of this recipe lies in its one-pot preparation, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor. Follow these straightforward steps to achieve a rich, creamy, and undeniably delicious soup.

  1. **Brown the Ground Beef:** Begin by using a sturdy pot, ideally a Dutch oven, which distributes heat evenly and is perfect for one-pot meals. Brown your ground beef over medium-high heat, seasoning it generously with salt and pepper. As it cooks, break up the beef into small crumbles. Once fully browned and no longer pink, drain any excess fat to ensure a lean and flavorful soup base. Remove the cooked beef from the pot and set it aside.
  2. **Sauté the Aromatics:** In the same pot, add butter and diced onions. Sauté them over medium heat until the onions become translucent and wonderfully fragrant. This step builds a crucial flavor foundation for the soup.
  3. **Simmer the Flavor Base:** Pour in the chicken broth, then add the fresh chopped cauliflower, Worcestershire sauce, Italian Seasoning, dried mustard, and garlic powder. Stir all the ingredients together, then cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the cauliflower to soften and absorb all the delightful flavors. You’ll know it’s ready when the cauliflower can be easily pierced with a fork.
  4. **Achieve Creamy Perfection:** Uncover the pot and reintroduce the cooked ground beef. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and heavy cream. Continue to stir gently until all the cheeses are fully melted and smoothly incorporated, creating a luxurious, creamy texture that defines this cheeseburger soup.
  5. **Serve Hot and Enjoy:** Once everything is well combined and heated through, your Keto Low-Carb Cheeseburger Soup is ready to be served! Ladle it into bowls and prepare for a truly satisfying meal.

This method ensures a well-balanced soup where every ingredient plays a vital role in delivering that authentic, savory cheeseburger taste without the carbs.

A collage showing the cooking process: raw ground beef, perfectly browned beef, and sautéed onions with butter, all prepared for keto cheeseburger soup.
The progression from raw ingredients to browned beef and sautéed onions, building the soup’s flavor.

Achieving the Perfect Thickness for Your Soup

Many soup lovers, myself included, prefer a really thick, rich consistency for their cheeseburger soup. This recipe incorporates 2 ounces of cream cheese, which already lends a significant amount of body and creaminess. However, for those desiring an even denser texture, xanthan gum is an excellent low-carb thickening agent.

To use xanthan gum effectively without clumps: after the heavy whipping cream and shredded cheese have been added and melted into the soup, scoop out about ½ teaspoon of xanthan gum into a small separate bowl. Add a couple of tablespoons of the hot soup liquid to the bowl and stir vigorously until the xanthan gum is fully dissolved and forms a thick, smooth paste without any lumps. Once smooth, pour this mixture back into the main pot of soup and stir thoroughly. You’ll notice the soup begin to thicken beautifully, achieving that ideal hearty consistency without adding any extra carbs.

This technique allows for precise control over the soup’s thickness, ensuring it meets your preference for a truly luxurious bowl of cheeseburger goodness.

Rich, creamy keto cheeseburger soup simmering perfectly in a vibrant Dutch oven.
The delicious soup, thickened to perfection, ready to be served.

Cauliflower Alternatives for Your Soup

While cauliflower is an outstanding low-carb substitute for potatoes in this cheeseburger soup, offering a mild flavor and soft texture, it’s good to know you have other options. If you’re not a fan of cauliflower or simply want to try something different, consider these alternatives:

  • Radishes: When cooked, radishes lose their peppery bite and become surprisingly mild, adopting a texture similar to tender potatoes. They are a fantastic low-carb option that can be chopped and added at the same stage as the cauliflower.
  • Omit entirely: If you prefer a brothier soup and don’t mind skipping a starchy vegetable substitute, you can simply omit the cauliflower altogether. The soup will still be incredibly flavorful and rich from the beef, cheese, and cream.
  • Celery Root (Celeriac): Though slightly higher in carbs than cauliflower, celeriac is still a good low-carb choice. It offers a unique, slightly nutty flavor and a firm texture when cooked. Ensure it’s peeled and diced small.
  • Turnips: Another root vegetable that can work, turnips also become softer and milder when cooked. They provide a different flavor profile, which some might enjoy.

Experimenting with these options allows you to customize the soup to your taste and dietary needs while keeping it deliciously low-carb.

A hearty serving of keto low carb cheeseburger soup presented in an elegant purple Dutch oven.
Serving up a fresh batch of soup straight from the Dutch oven.

Serving and Topping Suggestions: Elevate Your Bowl

One of the best parts about cheeseburger soup is the opportunity to load it up with your favorite toppings, transforming each bowl into a personalized masterpiece. This also makes the soup more exciting for meal prep, as you can vary the toppings day by day to keep things fresh and interesting. Think of your soup bowl as a blank canvas for deliciousness!

Here are some fantastic ideas to serve alongside and on top of your Keto Low-Carb Cheeseburger Soup:

Creative Topping Ideas:

  • Crispy Bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon adds an undeniable smoky flavor and satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the rich soup.
  • Diced Tomatoes: Fresh, juicy diced tomatoes provide a burst of acidity and a pop of color, mirroring the freshness of a classic burger.
  • Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses (like Monterey Jack or colby) adds more gooey goodness as it melts into the hot soup.
  • Chopped Pickles: For that essential tangy and briny kick, chopped dill pickles are a must-have, cutting through the richness beautifully.
  • Shredded Lettuce: A small handful of shredded crisp lettuce (like iceberg) might sound unusual, but it adds a fresh, cool crunch that mimics the experience of eating a burger. Add right before serving to maintain crispness.
  • Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices add healthy fats and a smooth texture, providing a lovely contrast to the hot soup.
  • Jalapeños: For those who love a bit of heat, sliced fresh or pickled jalapeños offer a spicy kick.
  • Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt adds a cooling tang and extra creaminess.
  • Fresh Herbs: Chopped fresh chives or parsley can add a bright, herbaceous note.

What to Serve Alongside:

While the soup is incredibly filling on its own, you might want a little something extra. For a truly keto-friendly meal, consider:

  • Freshly baked Keto Biscuits: These make for a perfect side to dunk into the creamy soup.
  • A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to add freshness and crunch.
  • Toasted low-carb bread or “fathead” bread for dipping.

By experimenting with these serving and topping suggestions, you can enjoy a different version of this delicious soup every time!

A wooden spoon scooping up a generous portion of keto cheeseburger soup, showcasing its rich texture and delicious toppings.
Every spoonful is a rich, flavorful delight.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This Keto Low-Carb Cheeseburger Soup is an ideal candidate for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy healthy, delicious meals throughout your busy week. Proper storage is key to maintaining its freshness and flavor.

How Long It Will Last in the Fridge:

Once cooled, transfer the soup into airtight, sealable containers. Store them in the refrigerator, and the soup will remain fresh and delicious for approximately 3-4 days. For best results, allow the soup to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating to prevent condensation and maintain quality. When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through. You might need to add a splash of broth or heavy cream if it has thickened too much.

A beautifully presented bowl of keto low carb cheeseburger soup, generously topped with crispy bacon, tangy pickles, and fresh tomatoes.
A delicious meal that’s perfect for leftovers.

Freezing Creamy Soups: What You Need to Know

Freezing this cheeseburger soup is possible, and it can be stored for up to 6 months in the freezer. However, it’s important to note a common characteristic of creamy soups containing dairy: the texture may change upon thawing. The dairy components, such as cream cheese and heavy cream, can sometimes separate or become grainy after freezing and reheating. While the soup will still be safe to eat and flavorful, the consistency might not be as smooth as when freshly made.

If you plan to freeze, consider adding the cream cheese and heavy cream after thawing and reheating the base soup. Alternatively, if you freeze the complete soup, be prepared for a slightly different texture and give it a good whisk or even a quick blend (if you don’t mind it being smoother) after reheating to try and reintegrate the dairy. For more detailed information on freezing various types of soups, you can explore resources like The Types of Soups You Can and Can’t Freeze.

More Keto Soup Inspirations

If you’ve fallen in love with this Keto Cheeseburger Soup, you’re in for a treat! The world of low-carb soups is vast and delicious. Here are more keto-friendly soup recipes to expand your culinary repertoire:

  • Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup
  • Keto Zuppa Toscana Soup
  • Keto Chicken Zoodle Soup
  • Keto Low Carb Chili
  • Keto Cauliflower Soup
  • Buffalo Chicken Soup
  • Keto Taco Soup
Another enticing shot of keto low carb cheeseburger soup in a white bowl, adorned with crispy bacon, tangy pickles, and fresh tomatoes.
A wholesome and satisfying meal.

And if you’re a fan of the bold flavors in this soup, you will surely adore my popular Keto Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole! You may also enjoy other keto-friendly comfort foods like Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, Keto Shrimp Alfredo, and Keto Low-Carb Bacon Egg and Cheese Casserole. Each recipe is designed to bring you maximum flavor with minimal carbs.

A close-up of a spoonful of keto cheeseburger soup, beautifully garnished with pieces of bacon, pickles, and tomatoes.
The perfect spoonful of comfort food.
keto low carb cheeseburger soup in a white bowl with pickles, tomatoes, and bacon

Print Recipe

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Keto Low-Carb Cheeseburger Soup

Keto Low-Carb Cheeseburger Soup is a quick and easy one-pot dinner recipe. The ingredients include ground beef, cheddar cheese, cauliflower, and cream cheese. Load it up with crunchy bacon, pickles, and tomatoes if you wish. This healthy hamburger recipe is perfect for meal prep and leftovers.

Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: cheeseburger soup, keto cheeseburger soup, low carb cheeseburger soup

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 439 kcal

Author: Brandi Crawford

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef (I use organic, grass-fed)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup diced onions
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cups chopped, fresh cauliflower
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning (adjust to taste, starting with ½ tbsp)
  • 1 tablespoon dried, ground mustard
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2-3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 oz cream cheese
  • ½ teaspoon xanthan gum (Optional for thickening, see notes)

Instructions

  1. In a large soup pot (such as a Dutch oven), brown the ground beef on medium-high heat with salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Use a meat chopper or spoon to break down the ground beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat and set the cooked beef aside.
  3. Add the butter and diced onions to the same pot on medium-high heat. Cook until the onions are translucent and fragrant and the butter has melted.
  4. Stir in the chicken broth, cauliflower, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, Italian Seasoning, and dried mustard. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium. Cook for 15 minutes, or until the cauliflower is soft and can be easily pierced with a fork.
  5. Uncover the pot and add the cooked ground beef, heavy cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until all the cheeses are melted and the soup is creamy and well combined.
  6. For a thick soup: If you desire a thicker soup, scoop out a couple of tablespoons of the hot soup liquid into a small bowl with the xanthan gum. Stir vigorously until the mixture is thick and smooth with no clumps. Pour this mixture back into the pot and stir thoroughly into the soup. This will help thicken the soup to your desired consistency.

Topping Ideas:

  • Cooked and crumbled bacon
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Extra shredded cheese
  • Chopped pickles
  • Sliced avocado

Notes

  • For the best melt and flavor, I recommend buying a block of cheddar cheese and grating it yourself. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect their melting quality and add unnecessary processed ingredients.
  • You can easily substitute cauliflower with radishes for a similar low-carb texture and flavor profile.
  • Adjust the amount of dried mustard to your preference. Start with ½ a tablespoon if you’re unsure and add more to taste.
  • If you are not strictly following a low-carb diet, you can use cornstarch to thicken the soup instead of xanthan gum. Combine 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water in a small bowl to form a slurry. Stir this mixture into the simmering soup and cook, stirring constantly, until it thickens.

Nutrition (displayed with net carbs)

Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 439kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 35g

Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information for a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.

Recipe Tools Used in this Recipe: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

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