Broth Calories: How Many Calories Are in Broth by Type and Serving

Understanding broth calories is helpful for anyone tracking nutrition, managing weight, or following specific diet plans such as low-calorie, keto, or fasting protocols. While broth is often considered a light and healthy option, its calorie content can vary depending on the type, ingredients, and serving size. In this guide, we break down broth calories by portion and type, explain the nutrition profile, and show how broth fits into common diet goals.

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Broth Calories

Broth is generally low in calories, especially when fat is skimmed and no starchy or creamy ingredients are added. Most calories come from small amounts of protein and fat.

Broth calories per cup

A standard 1 cup (8 oz / 240 ml) of plain broth contains approximately 10–40 calories, depending on the type and how much fat remains.

Broth calories per 1/4 cup

A 1/4 cup (2 oz / 60 ml) of broth provides about 2–10 calories. This amount is commonly used in cooking rather than as a standalone serving.

Broth calories per 1/2 cup

A 1/2 cup (4 oz / 120 ml) of broth contains roughly 5–20 calories.

Broth calories per 2 cups

A 2-cup (16 oz) serving of broth typically contains 20–80 calories, often consumed as a light soup or sipping broth.

Broth calories per 16 oz (pint)

A 16 oz (pint) of broth equals about 20–80 calories, depending on fat and protein content.

Broth calories per 32 oz (quart)

A 32 oz (quart) serving usually contains 40–160 calories. This amount is common for meal prep, fasting broths, or hydration-focused diets.

Broth calories per bowl

A typical soup bowl holds 1.5–2 cups, providing approximately 15–80 calories for plain broth without added noodles, rice, or oil.

Broth calories per 100g

Per 100 g, plain broth generally contains 4–15 calories, making it a very low-calorie food by weight.

Broth Calories by Type

Different broth types vary slightly in calories based on ingredients and preparation.

Chicken broth calories

Chicken broth typically contains 10–40 calories per cup. Skimmed chicken broth is at the lower end of the range.

Beef broth calories

Beef broth usually provides 15–50 calories per cup, depending on how much rendered fat remains.

Vegetable broth calories

Vegetable broth is often the lowest-calorie option, averaging 10–30 calories per cup, depending on vegetables used.

Bone broth calories

Bone broth generally contains 30–60 calories per cup because it is more concentrated and higher in protein.

Fish broth calories

Fish broth is light and typically contains 10–30 calories per cup, depending on added aromatics.

Mushroom broth calories

Mushroom broth averages 15–35 calories per cup, slightly higher than vegetable broth due to natural umami compounds.

Dashi calories (Japanese broth)

Dashi is very low in calories, usually 5–15 calories per cup, since it is made from seaweed and dried fish.

Consommé calories

Consommé is clarified broth and usually contains 10–30 calories per cup, with minimal fat.

Bouillon calories

Prepared bouillon broth contains 5–25 calories per cup, but calories depend on dilution and formulation.

Broth Nutrition Facts

Broth is valued more for hydration and flavor than calories, but it still contributes small amounts of nutrients.

Broth calories, carbs, protein, and fat

Per cup, plain broth typically contains:

• Calories: 10–40

• Protein: 1–8 g

• Fat: 0–3 g

• Carbohydrates: 0–3 g

Protein in broth

Protein comes from meat, bones, or vegetables. Bone broth generally contains more protein than standard broth.

Fat in broth

Fat content depends on whether the broth is skimmed. Broth with visible fat will have higher calories.

Carbs in broth

Carbohydrates are minimal and come mainly from vegetables. Plain broths usually contain very low carbs.

Sodium in broth

Broth is often high in sodium, especially store-bought versions. Sodium does not add calories but is important for dietary considerations.

Micronutrients in broth

Broth may contain small amounts of minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, and trace minerals, depending on ingredients and cooking time. It should not be relied on as a primary micronutrient source.

Broth Calories for Popular Diet Goals

Broth is often used in diet plans because it is low in calories, filling, and versatile. How it fits depends on the specific goal and how the broth is prepared.

Is broth low calorie?

Yes. Plain broth is considered low calorie, typically providing 10–40 calories per cup. Calories remain low when the broth is skimmed of fat and does not include added oils, starches, or cream.

Is broth good for weight loss?

Broth can support weight loss when used strategically. It is low in calories but high in volume, which may help with fullness and hydration. Broth is often used as:

• A low-calorie starter before meals

• A base for vegetable-heavy soups

• A replacement for higher-calorie sauces or soups

Weight loss benefits depend on portion size and sodium intake.

Broth calories for fasting (what breaks a fast depends on your approach)

Whether broth breaks a fast depends on the fasting method:

• Calorie-based fasting: Broth technically breaks the fast because it contains calories.

• Electrolyte or modified fasting: Small amounts of plain broth are sometimes included to provide sodium and fluids.

Always align broth use with the specific fasting protocol being followed.

Broth calories for keto (carbs and hidden sugars)

Plain broth is generally keto-friendly because it contains very low carbohydrates. However, keto users should:

• Check labels for added sugars or starches

• Watch sodium levels

• Avoid broths with noodles, rice, or sweetened flavorings

Bone broth is often preferred for keto due to its higher protein content.

Broth for high-protein diets (bone broth vs regular broth)

• Regular broth: Low protein, typically 1–4 g per cup

• Bone broth: Higher protein, often 6–10 g per cup, depending on preparation

Bone broth is better suited for high-protein diets, while regular broth is mainly used for hydration and flavor.

Broth Calories Calculator Section

Because broth calories vary, estimation is often more useful than exact numbers.

Broth calories calculator by type (chicken, beef, vegetable, bone)

Typical calorie estimates per cup:

• Chicken broth: 10–40 calories

• Beef broth: 15–50 calories

• Vegetable broth: 10–30 calories

• Bone broth: 30–60 calories

Preparation method and fat content influence where values fall within these ranges.

Broth calories calculator by serving size (cups/oz/grams)

Approximate calorie scaling:

• 1/2 cup: ~5–20 calories

• 1 cup (8 oz): ~10–40 calories

• 2 cups (16 oz): ~20–80 calories

• 32 oz (quart): ~40–160 calories

Broth calories calculator by ingredients (fat, added noodles, oil, etc.)

Calories increase significantly when broth includes:

• Rendered fat or added oil

• Noodles, rice, or dumplings

• Cream, butter, or coconut milk

Plain broth is low calorie, but broth-based soups are not.

Portion guide: how many cups of broth equal 50, 100, 200 calories?

Approximate guide for plain broth:

• 50 calories: ~1–3 cups

• 100 calories: ~3–6 cups

• 200 calories: ~6–12 cups

The exact amount depends on broth type and fat content.

FAQs About Calories in Broth

Conclusion

Broth is one of the lowest-calorie liquid foods, making it a popular choice for hydration, appetite control, and cooking. Most plain broths contain 10–40 calories per cup, with bone broth typically higher due to increased protein. However, calories can rise quickly when fats, starches, or other ingredients are added. By understanding broth calories by type and portion, you can better use broth to support your dietary needs without unexpected calorie intake.