Is Cooked Broccoli with Cheese Sauce (from Frozen) Keto Friendly?
Answer: Cooked broccoli with cheese sauce can be keto-friendly, but it depends on the sauce. Broccoli is low-carb, but cheese sauces may contain added starches or sugars. Check the ingredients and carb content to ensure it fits your keto macros.
Cooked Broccoli with Cheese Sauce (from Frozen) is a convenient and flavorful side dish that combines nutrient-rich broccoli with a creamy cheese sauce.
Macronutrient profile (per 1 cup/228g): - Calories: 214 - Fat: 13.45g (56% of calories) - Protein: 12.56g (24% of calories) - Total Carbs: 13.22g (25% of calories) - Fiber: 4.8g - Net Carbs: 8.42g (13.22g - 4.8g)
The net carb content of 8.42g per cup is moderately high for a strict ketogenic diet, which typically limits daily net carbs to 20-30g. However, this dish can still fit into a more flexible low-carb or moderate keto approach.
Benefits for keto dieters include a good balance of fats (with a mix of saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats) and a decent protein content. The fiber from broccoli aids digestion and helps maintain gut health.
Potential drawbacks include the relatively high net carb content, which may limit portion sizes for strict keto followers. Additionally, some pre-made cheese sauces may contain additives or thickeners that could impact blood sugar levels.
A suggested serving size for keto dieters would be 1/2 to 3/4 cup, depending on individual carb limits. This could be paired with a high-fat protein source like grilled chicken or salmon for a balanced keto meal.
Broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, folate, and potassium, offering additional health benefits beyond its macronutrient profile. The cheese sauce provides calcium and vitamin A, supporting bone health and immune function.
