Name: Keto Cauliflower & Hamburger Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred); 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets; 1 small yellow onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 4 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 4 cups beef broth (low sodium); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and black pepper, to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this soup combines bold flavor with a creamy texture, all while staying low in carbs. The ground beef gives it a savory depth, and the cauliflower soaks up all the richness from the broth, cream cheese, and cheddar. It’s a true one-pot wonder—after a quick sauté on the stovetop, I just toss everything in the crockpot and let it simmer until it’s perfect. It’s cozy, filling, and ideal for busy nights or lazy weekends when I want something warm and indulgent without the carb overload.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef (I use 20% fat for keto)
1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
1 small yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 oz cream cheese (softened for easier mixing)
1 cup heavy cream
4 cups beef broth (low sodium)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

I heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, I drain any excess fat.
I add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
I transfer the cooked beef, onion, garlic, cauliflower florets, thyme, salt, black pepper, and beef broth into the crockpot. I cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
After 4 hours, I stir in the softened cream cheese and heavy cream until fully blended.
I add the shredded cheddar and cook for another 15 minutes on low, stirring until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy.
I ladle the soup into bowls and serve it warm, sometimes garnished with chopped parsley, green onions, or a sprinkle of bacon bits for extra flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 servings (about 1½ cups each).
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Calories per Serving: Approx. 320 kcal

Variations

I love changing things up to match what I’m craving:

Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Add heat with red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce.
Mix in spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes for added greens.
Blend the soup with an immersion blender if I want a smoother consistency.
Swap cheddar for gouda or pepper jack for a flavor twist.

Storage/Reheating

This soup stores really well, which makes it perfect for meal prepping.

Fridge: I keep it in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: I portion it out and freeze for up to 2 months. I let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat: I warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. If it thickens too much, I add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, I’ve used frozen cauliflower in a pinch, but fresh gives the soup better texture and flavor.

Can I substitute the beef with turkey?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken works well and still keeps it keto-friendly.

Will the soup thicken as it cools?

Yes, it thickens naturally as it cools, thanks to the cream and cheese.

How can I make it spicier?

I add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or diced jalapeños for heat. A splash of hot sauce before serving also does the trick.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Definitely. I often make a big batch and portion it out for lunch or dinner throughout the week. It tastes even better the next day.

Conclusion

Keto Cauliflower & Hamburger Soup is one of those recipes I keep in constant rotation. It’s creamy, satisfying, and low in carbs—everything I need in a comforting bowl of soup. Whether I serve it on a cold evening or batch-cook it for the week, it always delivers bold flavor and a rich, cozy texture. It’s the kind of keto meal I don’t have to think twice about making again and again.