High-Protein Low-Carb Creamy Ground Beef Soup

This comforting, creamy soup is packed with protein, tender ground beef, fresh spinach, juicy tomatoes, and a rich, savory broth. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for a low-carb meal. A delicious one-pot recipe that’s easy to prepare and great for meal prep!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
– 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
– 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
– ½ small onion, finely diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– 2 cups cauliflower florets (or diced potatoes for the pictured version)
– 4 cups beef broth
– ½ cup heavy cream
– ½ cup cream cheese, softened
– ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– ½ teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil or butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.

2. Add Aromatics

Add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

3. Season the Soup

Stir in Italian seasoning, paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

4. Add Broth and Vegetables

Pour in beef broth and add diced tomatoes and cauliflower. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.

5. Simmer

Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender.

6. Make It Creamy

Lower the heat. Add softened cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir until the cream cheese melts and the broth becomes smooth and creamy.

7. Add Spinach

Stir in fresh spinach and cook for another 2–3 minutes until wilted.

8. Finish and Serve

Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir gently. Taste and adjust the seasonings. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm!
Nutrition Information
High Protein
Low Carb

Estimated per serving, based on 6 servings using cauliflower and lean ground beef.
Nutrient Amount
Calories 330 kcal
Protein 27 g
Total Carbohydrates 9 g
Fiber 2 g
Net Carbs 7 g
Fat 21 g
Sugar 4 g
Sodium 650 mg

Nutrition values vary depending on the beef, broth, cream, and cheese brands.
Nut & Allergen Information
– Tree nuts: No nuts required.
– Peanuts: None.
– Almonds: None.
– Walnuts/Pecans: None.
– Gluten: Naturally gluten-free if using certified gluten-free broth and seasonings.
– Dairy: Contains heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan.
– Eggs: No eggs required.
– Soy: Check packaged broth and seasonings for possible soy ingredients.
Nut-Free: Yes, when prepared with nut-free ingredients and without cross-contamination.
Helpful Tips & Variations
– Extra protein: Add shredded chicken or increase the ground beef.
– Lower carbs: Use cauliflower instead of potatoes.
– Extra creamy: Add another 2 tablespoons of cream cheese.
– More vegetables: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or celery.
– Spicy version: Add extra red pepper flakes.
– Dairy-free option: Use unsweetened coconut cream and a suitable dairy-free cream cheese.
– Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
– Freezing: Freeze without the cream and cheese for best texture. Add them when reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q1: Is this soup keto-friendly?

Yes! When made with cauliflower instead of potatoes, it is approximately 7 g net carbs per serving.

Q2: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works beautifully and creates a lighter soup.

Q3: Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare it ahead and refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.

Q4: How can I make this soup even higher in protein?

Add extra lean ground beef, shredded chicken, or additional Parmesan cheese.

Q5: Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes! Thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup.

Q6: Can I replace heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, although the soup will be slightly less rich.

Q7: Can I make it without cream cheese?

Yes. Increase the heavy cream slightly or use additional Parmesan for a creamy consistency.

Q8: Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, provided your broth, seasonings, and other packaged ingredients are gluten-free.

Q9: Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, but creamy soups may separate slightly after freezing. Stir well while reheating.

Q10: What can I serve with this soup?

Serve with a green salad, keto garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or low-carb cheese rolls.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Packed with satisfying protein.
– Low-carb and keto-friendly with cauliflower.
– Rich, creamy, and full of flavor.
– Easy one-pot preparation.
– Perfect for lunch, dinner, and meal prep.
– Family-friendly comfort food!
A warm, creamy bowl of goodness that proves healthy eating can be delicious, filling, and satisfying! ❤️