How do you get even the pickiest eater to enjoy their veggies? You serve it with a creamy homemade cheddar cheese sauce of course! Broccoli and cheddar is a fantastic combo that is a staple in our household. In the winter Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a weekly staple. In the summer these amazing foil packs are on repeat. This simple side dish is one that you will find yourself coming back to time and time again. Steamed broccoli is paired with a simple 6 ingredient cheese sauce that is pure comfort food. This sauce is so versitle and pairs perfectly with other meats and vegetables!

Why you’ll love this recipe:

• Versatile – This is the perfect basic cheese sauce! It goes with anything… Steamed broccoli, roasted veggies, pretzel bites, burgers, spaghetti squash… So many opportunities! You could even add different spices to fit different cuisines better (maybe taco seasoning for nachos or pepper blends for a spicy kick).
• Quick & Easy – The sauce itself takes about 10-15 minutes depending on your preferred consistency and flavor! There are no expensive ingredients, special appliances, or complicated steps. The sauce requires just a small pot and a heating source!
• Low-carb, Keto, Nut-free, & Gluten-Free – A serving of the sauce has 123 calories, 10.7 grams of fat, 2.3 grams of carbs, and 4.3 grams of protein. For keto folks who rely on good doses of fat for energy, this is a great addition to meals!

Cheese Sauce Ingredients

Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need for the recipe. Scroll down to the printable recipe card for the exact measurements.

• Half-n-half and Unsalted butter – This makes the base of the creamy sauce. If you only have salted butter, you may not need to add any with your seasonings.
• Dijon mustard, Garlic powder, Onion powder, Salt (to taste) – General, all-purpose flavor. Feel free to add some paprika for a little kick if you’d like.
• Shredded cheddar cheese – If you shred it from a block of cheese, you’ll save a little in carbs and have a smoother melt. If you wanted some spice, you could replace half with pepper jack.
• Broccoli – I used fresh broccoli because we love the texture, but you could use frozen broccoli instead (it may require an extra minute of steaming, check that it’s fork-tender). This sauce is also great with cauliflower, green beans, asparagus, and more!

How to Make Cheese Sauce for Broccoli

In addition to the ingredients listed above you will just need a sauce pot and spatula. This easy, cheesy side dish is super easy and quick! Here’s a step-by-step guide for making this cheese sauce recipe.

Steam Broccoli

Place the broccoli in a steamer basket and set it inside a pot filled with 2 inches of water. Bring to a simmer and cover for 7-8 minutes. When the broccoli has reached your desired tenderness remove from heat and set aside. Remember, the cooking times may vary depending on the size of your florrets.

Make Sauce

While the broccoli is steaming, heat a medium-sized pot or saucepan on medium heat. Add heavy cream cream and butter, then warm for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder, then stir until combined. Finally, pour in the cheese and stir continuously until the cheese is melted. Taste and add salt if needed.

Combine

Once the sauce is smooth and broccoli is fork-tender and bright green, we’re ready to serve! Remove the broccoli from the steamer basket and serve with the cheese sauce either on the side or drizzled all over.

How to serve cheese sauce

This easy cheese sauce is great as a topping or a dip! Serving in little cups with the broccoli lets everyone decide how much cheese they prefer, but drizzling it all over the broccoli is easy and super delicious! We love this as a side with Air Fryer Salmon or Garlic Butter Steak Bites for a quick, low-carb meal ready in about 20 minutes. It also goes perfectly with Crock Pot Ribs and Mashed Cauliflower!

More veggies that go with cheese sauce:

• Air Fryer Green Beans (4.8 net carbs)
• Keto Roasted Radishes (1.3 net carbs)
• Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower (3.5 net carbs)
• Crispy Keto Fries (6.1 net carbs)

Store

Both the cheese sauce and the broccoli can be kept in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days, but they should be stored separately for the best texture.

Can I freeze cheese sauce?

Yes, this cheese sauce can be frozen up to 3 months! It’s best to store in an airtight container (make sure to leave some extra room so it can expand without breaking your jar). You’ll get the best texture if you defrost the sauce overnight in the fridge, then reheat using the directions below.

Reheat

For the best texture, I like to reheat the broccoli and sauce separately. To reheat the sauce quickly, microwave at 50% power in 20-second increments, stirring between each blast for even reheating. Broccoli can be air fried (350 degrees, 2-5 minutes), baked (350 degrees 5-8 minutes), or microwaved (about a minute… but beware, it makes the scent super strong).

If you love this healthy side dish, check out these easy keto recipes!

• Broccoli Cheddar Muffins – The BEST side dish with some low-carb tomato soup or as a breakfast or snack! These are easy to freeze and reheat, too.
• Crispy Smashed Brussels Sprouts – This comes with an amazing aioli dipping sauce, but it’s great with queso, too!
• Air Fryer Squash – We LOVE how easy this is! Just a few ingredients and about 10 minutes, and you have a delicious, healthy side dish.
• Bacon Cheddar Cauliflower Tots – Crispy, tender, and just the right amount of salty for the perfect snack!
• Cheesy Bacon Wrapped Asparagus – These are great as an appetizer or side dish! The everything bagel seasoning adds a great twist on an old favorite.

Broccoli and Cheese Sauce FAQs

Yield: 4 servings

Cheese Sauce for Broccoli

Print

This quick Cheese Sauce for Broccoli is a low-carb, healthy side dish to add to any meal! The creamy 6-ingredient sauce is mild, ready in 15 minutes, and the perfect topping for veggies.

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Total Time 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 3 cups broccoli florets
• ½ cup half n half
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp onion powder
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Place the broccoli in a steamer basket and set it inside a pot filled with 2 inches of water. Bring to a simmer and cover for 7-8 minutes, until broccoli is tender and bright green.
2. Meanwhile, make the cheese sauce. Add the cream and butter to a medium pot or saucepan and heat over medium for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently. 
3. Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder and stir until combined. 
4. Add the shredded cheese and stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and add salt to taste. 
5. Remove the broccoli from the steamer basket and serve with the cheese sauce, either on the side or drizzled all over! 

Notes

• I found this recipe was really good without any added salt, my husband liked it better with ¼ tsp of salt added. Either way, it’s delicious! 
• Leftovers should be stored with broccoli and cheese sauce separate in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave in 15-second increments so as not to burn or overcook the sauce. If you like crispy broccoli, reheat it in the air fryer. 
• This sauce would make a great dip for pretzels or even as a mac n cheese sauce! 
• The sauce thickens slightly as it cools, just heat it up gradually if needed to get it back to pouring consistency. 
• Nutrition values for cheese sauce + broccoli: Calories: 146 grams, Total Fat: 11 grams, Cholesterol: 32.2 milligrams, Sodium: 166.4 milligrams, Carbohydrates: 6.8 grams, Fiber: 1.8 grams, Sugar: 2.5 grams, Protein: 6.2 grams, Net Carbs: 5 grams

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

4

Serving Size:

1/4th of sauce only (see notes for nutrition values including broccoli)
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 123Total Fat: 10.7gCholesterol: 32.2mgSodium: 143.9mgCarbohydrates: 2.3gNet Carbohydrates: 2.2gFiber: 0.1gSugar: 1.3gProtein: 4.3g

The post Cheese Sauce for Broccoli appeared first on The Best Keto Recipes.

Whipped Feta Dip

This Whipped Feta Dip is so incredibly delicious, you won’t be able to get enough! Fresh feta is blended with indulgent heavy cream, olive oil and cream cheese to make an incredible creamy mixture. This mix is combined with fresh lemon and garlic to make this refreshingly light dip that has such a bright flavor and a rich texture! I mean it when I say you won’t be able to stop eating this!

Whipped Feta Dip has a wonderful Mediterranean flavor and goes so well with any type of veggies you plate it with. One of the best things about this dip is that it only takes five minutes to make! This is a super easy recipe that has under one net carb per serving- meaning it’s perfect for your keto diet!

You can easily prepare this dip in advance and serve it at your next book club, brunch, bridal or baby shower, or just as a fun side dish at a family dinner. Sprinkle with a bit of cracked pepper and fresh herbs (chives, basil, or dill would be perfect!) for a beautiful, refreshing dish. You really can’t go wrong putting this on the table- you’ll be asked for the recipe by everyone who takes a bite!

Ingredients in Creamy Feta Dip

As always, here is a quick overview of the ingredients used in our Whipped Feta. For the complete recipe, just scroll to the bottom of the page.

• Feta cheese, heavy cream
• Olive oil, cream cheese
• Lemon juice, lemon zest, and garlic

How do I make this Feta Dip recipe?

All you need to make this keto dip recipe is a blender or a food processor! It’s incredibly easy–Just put all the ingredients in your blender or food processor, then pulse until creamy! Scrape down the sides and add a bit more oil or cream if you need to.

Before serving, sprinkle with a bit of cracked pepper and fresh herbs. This isn’t required, but it makes for a beautiful presentation and adds a great fresh flavor!

Tips for the BEST Feta Dip

• If possible, use fresh ingredients! Fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and garlic is going to yield the best, freshest flavors
• I recommend using a block of feta cheese instead of crumbled feta- this type of feta will give a richer texture and will blend into a smoother consistency.
• Add toppings! Fresh herbs like dill, basil, or chives pack a flavor punch you’ll love. Topping the dip with an extra drizzle of olive oil or crushed nuts add great texture, too.

What should I serve with this Whipped Feta Dip?

Fresh veggies are delicious with this dip! Carrots, broccoli, cucumbers, radishes, or sliced bell peppers all work well with this flavor. Add in some Keto Tzatziki and Homemade Basil Pesto, then let your guests snack away! Combine this all with some olives, tapenade or bruschetta for an easy no-cook keto spread that will impress. If you’re not a fan of raw veggies, I also recommend these Crispy Zucchini Chips or Air Fryer Green Beans for dipping!

If you’re looking for more no-cook dishes to add to your party spread, these Marinated Shrimp or Marinated Mozzarella Balls manage to pack TONS of flavor with absolutely no work at all! If you have a little extra time, you’ll love this Tomato Galette and Instant Pot Artichokes, too.

For a full meal, this dip would work great with Grilled Shrimp Kabobs, Grilled Salmon Kabobs, or Greek Chicken Kabobs! Serve with Crispy Salmon Patties and Green Bean Fries–They would both be delicious dipped in this whipped feta. If you’d like to add a keto cocktail, consider this Basil Whiskey Sour or Sugar-Free Lemon Drop!

More keto side dishes

• Cheesy Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
• Air Fryer Zucchini with Feta
• Keto Salad Bowl
• Ranch Zucchini Chips

Yield: 8 1/4-cup servings

Whipped Feta Dip

Print

This creamy Whipped Feta Dip is the perfect low-carb appetizer. Bursting with lemon and dill flavor, under 1 net carb per serving, and easy to meal prep!

Prep Time 5 minutes

Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 ounces feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 clove of garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon fresh chopped dill

Instructions

1. Add your feta, cream cheese, heavy cream, olive oil, and garlic clove to the blender or food processor. Pulse over and over in short bursts, wiping down the sides of the blender when needed. If it looks like it needs more liquid, add more heavy cream or olive oil.
2. When the dip is well combined, add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh dill. Season with salt and pepper to your preference, then continue pulsing until entire mixture is smooth.

Notes

• A half teaspoon of lemon juice and half teaspoon of lemon zest gives you a light lemon flavor. If you love lemon and would like it to stand out more, increase each to up to 1 teaspoon each. Please note: Lemon flavor will get stronger the longer the dip sits. If making several days ahead of time, start will less lemon.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

8

Serving Size:

about 1/4 cup
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 121Total Fat: 12.2gCholesterol: 24.5mgSodium: 159.2mgCarbohydrates: 0.8gFiber: 0gSugar: 0.7gProtein: 2.7g

The post Whipped Feta Dip appeared first on The Best Keto Recipes.

Italian Sausage and Kale Skillet

This Italian Sausage and Kale Skillet is an incredibly delicious one pan meal! I love this keto dinner recipe because you can really feel good about feeding this to your family. There is a large serving of protein from the sausage and there are several servings of vegetables! This easy keto dinner recipe combines flavorful Italian sausage, aromatic garlic, heavy cream and fresh peppers, kale, onion and tomatoes!

This Italian Sausage skillet also comes together very quickly, while making a really impressive dish. Just brown the sausage and cook everything together in one pan and you are ready to go! This is the perfect weeknight dinner that everyone at your table will really enjoy! The flavors of the sausage and vegetables go so well together, and the creamy sauce really brings it all together!

Ingredients in Italian Sausage and Kale

As always, here is a quick overview of the ingredients used in our Sausage Skillet. For the complete recipe, just scroll to the bottom of the page.

• Italian sausage- I prefer this variety of sausage in this skillet since it has so much flavor!
• Minced garlic, tomato paste, heavy cream, salt and pepper
• Bell peppers, onion, tomato, kale

How do I make this Sausage Skillet?

You won’t believe how easy this dinner is to make! Just 3 easy steps and you are ready to serve!

1. Brown your sausage and drain the grease. Put your sausage to one side of the skillet (you can also remove it if your skillet is small).
2. Add your veggies and saute for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is tender and the kale is wilted.
3. Stir the tomato paste and heavy cream into the skillet until a nice sauce forms. Add salt and pepper and serve!

How many carbs are in this healthy dinner recipe?

There are only 6 net carbs in a very generous serving of this easy keto recipe! This meal is full of protein as well as fiber, so it will really fill you up and keep you going!

Tips for the best keto Italian Sausage recipe

• If you don’t enjoy pork, you could easily replace it with a ground turkey or chicken. I would recommend that you generously season the meat with Italian seasoning.
• You can buy bagged kale that already has the stems removed, making this dinner even faster!
• If you want your sauce to be a bit creamier, you can always add more heavy cream. Alternatively, if you prefer a lighter sauce, you can use half and half.

What should I serve with this Italian Sausage Recipe?

The first thing that comes to mind is bread! Of this list of 30+ Keto Bread Recipes, I’ve got to say that my favorite is probably the Red Lobster Copycat Keto Rolls or the Three Cheese Biscuits. Keto Mashed Cauliflower or Air Fryer Green Beans would also be delicious with this recipe! For dessert, try these No Bake Peanut Butter Bars or Bakery Style Keto Chocolate Chip Cookies!

More one pan recipes

• One Pan Tuscan Chicken (keto + low carb)
• Cheesy Fajita Chicken (keto + one pan)
• Keto Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
• One Pan Shrimp Creole (keto + low carb)

More easy healthy dinner recipes

• Asian Pork Tenderloin with Air Fryer Vegetables (keto + low carb)
• Chicken Fajitas (keto + low carb)
• Air Fryer Chicken
• Steak and Shrimp Skillet

Yield: 6

Italian Sausage and Kale Skillet (keto + low carb)

Print

This simple Italian Sausage and Kale skillet is a hearty one pan meal loaded with meat and vegetables! Enjoy a generous helping for just 6 net carbs!

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian Sausage
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
• 3-4 cups chopped kale, stems removed
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (+ more if you want it creamier)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large, deep skillet brown the Italian sausage and drain off any grease. Push the sausage to one side of the skillet, or remove completely if your skillet is a little too small.
2. Add the garlic, onion, tomatoes, peppers and kale. Toss the vegetables and saute 4-5 minutes until the onions and tender and the kale has wilted.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and heavy cream until a sauce forms. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

6

Serving Size:

About 1 1/2 cups
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 312Total Fat: 25gCholesterol: 62mgSodium: 564mgCarbohydrates: 8gNet Carbohydrates: 6gFiber: 2gProtein: 12g

The post Italian Sausage and Kale Skillet (keto + low carb) appeared first on The Best Keto Recipes.

What is Chocolate Ganache?

Chocolate ganache is a wonderful combination of only two ingredients- yep, just two! All you’ll need for this recipe is sugar free chocolate chips and heavy whipping cream. Keto ganache is a blend of finely chopped chocolate and warm cream, which is mixed until it is very smooth. Learn how to make chocolate ganache in this simple tutorial!

Ingredients for Keto Ganache

Ganache only needs two simple ingredients. You might be tempted to add something else like vanilla extract or another add in, but don’t! Perfect, smooth ganache is made with these basic ingredients:

• Chocolate: Sugar free Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips- I used Lily’s brand. You can also use white chocolate chips for a white chocolate ganache
• Cream: Heavy whipping cream that has been heated until it is piping hot! 

How do you make Keto Chocolate Ganache?

For this keto-friendly chocolate ganache, I used equal parts hot heavy whipping cream and sugar-free dark chocolate. This allows the chocolate to gently melt and combine with the cream for a creamy, smooth ganache worthy of any dessert. To make this decadent chocolate sauce you will need to follow these simple steps:

• Chop Semi Sweet Lily’s Sugar Free Chocolate Chips as finely as you can. Pour them into a heatproof bowl and set aside. 
• In a sauce pan (not the microwave) slowly heat heavy whipping cream to a simmer. When the cream is piping hot pour it over the chopped chocolate and place a lid on top of the bowl. Allow the chocolate to sit two minutes, then remove the lid and stir until a thick, creamy chocolate sauce has formed.                         

Tips for the Best Chocolate Ganache

• Make sure that no water comes into contact with this mixture while you’re mixing–It’ll cause the chocolate to seize up and separate into a grainy, gloopy mess.
• Chop your chocolate very finely
• The heavy cream should be VERY hot! As soon as it has begun to boil remove it from the heat and carefully pour it over the chocolate. 
• Do not let the mixture sit too long before you stir it- two minutes is my recommended time.

What can I do with Chocolate Ganache?

The possibilities are endless! You can also this keto ganache for brownies, truffles, toppings to cakes or cupcakes, or even a decadent fruit dip! There are truly no limits to the ways this delicious ganache can be used. You can also use a different type of sugar free chocolate chip to make your preferred type of ganache. Some great ways to use ganache are:

• I used this ganache for these Chocolate Cheesecake Bars and they were divine!
• Brownies: smother your favorite brownies in ganache for a rich treat. 
• Fruit Pizza: drizzle over this fruit pizza for a decadent dessert. 

What do I do with Chocolate Ganache after it cools?

If you stir your ganache until smooth and allow it to cool completely, the ganache can be scooped with a spoon. It will be a thick, smooth chocolate that will be thicker than frosting, but a similar texture. You can use this as a dip for fruits or spread over baked goods. You can even add this to a piping bag with a wide tip and pipe it on like frosting. 

Can I make frosting with Ganache?

Should you want to make a sugar free frosting with this ganache you will need to do one extra thing! Place the completely cooled ganache in a mixing bowl and beat with an electric mixer until it is light and  fluffy. The volume will almost double and it will make a great sugar free frosting! 

More Keto Chocolate Desserts

• Keto Brownies with Frosting
• Salted Caramel Stuffed Keto Brownies
• Keto French Silk Pie
• Keto Chocolate Sugar Cookies

Yield: 12

How to Make Chocolate Ganache (keto + sugar free)

Print

Learn how to make Chocolate Ganache that is keto and sugar free! This super simple recipe can be used as a topping for desserts, as a fruit dip or a decadent treat!

Cook Time 5 minutes

Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup Lily's Sugar Free Semi Sweet Dark Chocolate Chips
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

Instructions

1. Chop Semi Sweet Lily's Sugar Free Chocolate Chips as finely as you can. Pour them into a heatproof bowl and set aside. 
2. In a sauce pan (not the microwave) slowly heat heavy whipping cream to a simmer. When the cream is piping hot pour it over the chopped chocolate and place a lid on top of the bowl.
3. Allow the chocolate to sit two minutes, then remove the lid and stir until a thick, creamy chocolate sauce has formed. 

Recommended Products

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

• 
  Dark Chocolate Chips by Lily's | Stevia Sweetened, No Added Sugar, Low-Carb, Keto Friendly | 55% Cocoa | Fair Trade, Gluten-Free & Non-GMO | 9 ounce, 3-Pack

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

12

Serving Size:

2 tablespoons
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 88Total Fat: 7.9gCholesterol: 11.3mgSodium: 2.7mgCarbohydrates: 8.8gNet Carbohydrates: 3gFiber: 5.5gSugar Alcohols: 0.3gProtein: 1.4g

The post How to Make Chocolate Ganache (keto + sugar free) appeared first on The Best Keto Recipes.