Keto Chile Relleno Soup

Creamy, Cheesy, High-Protein & Low-Carb

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes Servings: 6 Diet: Keto-friendly, low-carb, high-protein

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
• 4 cups beef broth, preferably low-sodium and low-carb
• 2 cans (4 oz each) diced green chilies, drained if needed
• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened and cubed
• 1½ cups shredded pepper jack cheese
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder, optional
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ tsp smoked paprika, optional
• 1 tbsp olive oil, if needed
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, optional garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the beef

Heat a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Add the seasonings

Stir in the cumin, garlic powder, optional onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the broth and chilies

Pour in the beef broth and add the diced green chilies. Stir well, bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 4: Make the soup creamy

Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese a few cubes at a time, stirring continuously until completely melted and smooth. Avoid boiling the soup after adding the cream cheese.

Step 5: Add the pepper jack cheese

Gradually stir in the shredded pepper jack cheese until melted. Simmer gently for another 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently. If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth to reach your preferred consistency.

Step 6: Taste and serve

Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and seasonings. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro, extra shredded cheese, or sliced jalapeños if desired.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving, based on 6 servings:

• Calories: 400–470
• Protein: 25–32 g
• Total Carbs: 5–8 g
• Net Carbs: 4–7 g
• Fat: 30–38 g

Nutrition estimates vary with the beef’s fat content, cheese brands, broth, and green chilies.

Tips for the Best Keto Soup

• For more protein: Use lean ground beef and add extra beef, or stir in cooked shredded chicken.
• For fewer carbs: Check the labels on the broth and canned chilies, and avoid added sugars or starches.
• For extra spice: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• For a smoother texture: Soften the cream cheese before adding it and stir over low heat.
• For meal prep: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring well.

Enjoy this rich, comforting Chile Relleno Soup with all the flavors of roasted green chilies, seasoned beef, and melted cheese—without the high-carb tortillas.