Keto Protein Soup: Hearty Meal Prep Comfort (Print Version)
Protein-packed keto soup for easy meal prep. Enjoy a hearty, low-carb comfort meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or healthy lunches.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 35 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Gluten-Free
# Ingredients:
→ The Savory Base
01 -
2 tbsp olive oil
02 -
1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 -
2 celery stalks, diced
04 -
4 garlic cloves, minced
05 -
6 cups chicken broth
06 -
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained (no sugar added)
→ Hearty Protein Power
07 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
08 -
1 lb ground beef (80/20)
09 -
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
→ Creamy Richness & Greens
10 -
1 cup heavy cream
11 -
4 oz cream cheese, softened
12 -
5 oz fresh spinach
→ Aromatic Seasoning Blend
13 -
1 tbsp smoked paprika
14 -
1 tsp dried thyme
15 -
1 bay leaf
16 -
1 tsp salt, or to taste
17 -
1/2 tsp black pepper, or to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
Cook 4 slices bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven until crispy. Remove, crumble, and set aside. In the same pot, brown 1 lb ground beef (80/20), breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat. Add 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 medium yellow onion (diced), and 2 celery stalks (diced). Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
02 -
Stir in 4 garlic cloves (minced) and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, to bloom the spices and build a rich base for your Hearty Keto Soup: Protein-Loaded Comfort Meal Prep.
03 -
Pour in 6 cups chicken broth and 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained). Add 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into 1-inch pieces) and 1 bay leaf. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
04 -
Remove and discard the bay leaf. Stir in 4 oz cream cheese (softened) until it is completely melted and smooth. Gradually whisk in 1 cup heavy cream until well combined and the soup is creamy. This step adds the luxurious richness to your Hearty Keto Soup: Protein-Loaded Comfort Meal Prep.
05 -
Add 5 oz fresh spinach to the pot, stirring gently until it wilts completely into the soup, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Return the cooked and crumbled bacon to the pot. Taste the Hearty Keto Soup: Protein-Loaded Comfort Meal Prep and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
06 -
Ladle the hot soup into bowls for immediate enjoyment. This protein-loaded comfort meal is also perfect for meal prepping; portion into airtight containers once cooled. It's a satisfying and hearty option for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
# Notes:
01 -
Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before adding it to the soup to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
02 -
This soup is excellent for meal prep! Store cooled soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
03 -
For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes with the other seasonings, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end to brighten the flavors.
04 -
Garnish individual servings with fresh chopped parsley, a dollop of sour cream, or extra crumbled bacon for an appealing finish.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large Dutch oven or stockpot
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Chef's knife
04 -
Measuring cups and spoons
05 -
Wooden spoon or spatula
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 726 kcal
Total Fat: 53 g
Total Carbohydrate: 8 g
Protein: 47 g