Welcome to your soon-to-be favorite dish: Keto Cheddar Chowder! This comfort in a bowl brings you the richness of cheddar cheese and the satisfying texture of veggies while keeping everything keto-friendly. Whether you’re a seasoned ketogenic diet enthusiast or a curious first-timer, this recipe perfectly combines flavors and nutrition.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 head of cauliflower, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Crisp bacon bits and fresh chives for garnish
Equipments
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Cheese grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender or immersion blender
How to Make Keto Cheddar Chowder Recipe– Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by preparing your base vegetables. Chop a fresh head of cauliflower into small florets, dice a small onion, and mince three cloves of garlic. These will form the foundation of your chowder, providing texture and aroma. The key is to keep the cauliflower pieces similar in size to ensure even cooking. Put the prepared veggies aside as you heat your saucepan.
Step 2: Sauté for Aroma
Add two tablespoons of butter to a large saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, allowing it to sweat for another 1-2 minutes. The combination of onion and garlic acts as the aromatic base, elevating the chowder’s flavors.
Step 3: Simmer the Cauliflower
Introduce the chopped cauliflower to the saucepan, stirring it into the onion and garlic mixture. Season lightly with salt and let it cook for about 5 minutes. Then pour in one cup of chicken broth. Increase the heat slightly and bring the broth to a gentle simmer. Cover the saucepan and allow it to cook for 10 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
Step 4: Blend Everything Together
Carefully transfer the contents of the saucepan to a blender. Blend until smooth to achieve the desired creamy texture. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot. The transformation into a velvety soup base is crucial for the chowder’s luscious feel.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Return the blended base to your saucepan over low heat. Stir in half a cup of heavy cream and the shredded cheddar cheese, integrating them slowly. The heavy cream augments the richness while the cheddar cheese introduces that iconic sharp, cheesy flavor. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and well-incorporated.
Step 6: Final Seasoning
Adjust the seasoning by tasting the chowder. Add salt and pepper to suit your preference. The seasoning should be tailored to enhance the existing flavors of the chowder rather than overpower them.
How to Serve Keto Cheddar Chowder
This delicious Keto Cheddar Chowder is best served piping hot in a deep bowl. Top with optional crisp bacon bits and fresh chives for a delightful garnish. These toppings provide a contrasting texture and complementary flavor boost.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For the best results, ensure your cauliflower is cooked thoroughly to blend effortlessly into a smooth base. Always taste before serving as seasoning adjustments can significantly improve the flavor profile. If you plan to store it for later, know that the flavors meld beautifully when stored, enhancing with time.
Pumped-up Protein: High Protein Cheddar Chowder Delight
For a high-protein variant, consider adding cooked, shredded chicken or turkey. Simply sauté your protein choice after the onion but before the cauliflower to give it color and depth of flavor. This adds satisfying satiety alongside protein power.
This hearty option turns the chowder from a starter to a fulfilling main course, perfect for post-workout nourishment or simply a more substantial meal.
Stay Lean: Low Carb Cheddar Chowder Twist
To focus on lowering carbs further, substitute some cauliflower with zucchini or another low-carb veggie like broccoli. Remember to adjust the stock quantity to accommodate additional vegetables to maintain desired consistency.
This strategy not only tailors the chowder to your carb targets but also varies the texture and flavor slightly, adding an exciting new dimension to the dish.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, pour into a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid boiling, as this could affect the texture negatively. This chowder is freezer-friendly. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
- Can I freeze keto soup?
Yes, you can freeze keto soup for up to 3 months. - Is keto soup good for weight loss?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats. - How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip any meat additions. - What can I use instead of cauliflower?
Try different low-carb veggies, like broccoli or zucchini, to vary the taste and texture. - Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but cheese you shred yourself melts better and results in a smoother texture.
Enjoy Your Comfort Food – Share the Love!
This keto cheddar chowder is a nourishing, satisfying dish that’s perfect for cozy nights or chilly days. Delight in the creamy, cheesy goodness without breaking your keto goals. We invite you to share your experience and dear moments around this chowder by leaving a comment or giving a shoutout on social media. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and loved ones!