The Best Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup
Introduction
There’s something magical about a warm bowl of creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup, especially when it’s made in a crockpot! This recipe will not only fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma but will also provide you with the perfect comforting meal on a chilly day. Imagine the rich, velvety cheese combined with the earthy goodness of broccoli, all slowly simmered to perfection—easy, indulgent, and absolutely satisfying.
Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
2 Hour
Servings
6 Persons
Diet Type
Vegetarian
Difficulty
Easy
Rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why This Recipe Works
Ingredients for Recipe
Broccoli: Fresh or frozen, both work well. Using fresh broccoli gives a brighter flavor, but frozen is a great time-saver.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar works best for a bold flavor. You can mix it with mild cheddar for a creamy consistency.
Half and Half: Adds creaminess without being as heavy as full cream. You can substitute with milk for a lighter version.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Provides depth of flavor. Use low-sodium for a healthier option.
Carrots & Onion: These veggies add a touch of sweetness and balance out the rich cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Veggies: Chop the broccoli, carrots, and onion. Be sure to cut the broccoli into small florets to ensure even cooking.
- Combine in Crockpot: Add the chopped vegetables, broth, half and half, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the crockpot. Stir gently.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours until the vegetables are tender.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cook for an additional 15 minutes until melted and smooth.
- Blend for Smoothness (Optional): For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend half of the soup, then mix it back in.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls, and top with extra shredded cheddar cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
Chef’s Insight: Don’t let the garlic brown—it can turn bitter. Add it just before the onions are soft and cook for 1-2 minutes.
Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
If the soup is too thick, add more broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Broccoli can be a bit bland, so don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning as needed, especially with salt and pepper.
Add the cheese at the end of the cooking process to avoid curdling or separating.
If you’re using an immersion blender, blend gently for a few seconds to avoid turning the soup into a paste.
Serving, Nutrition, Storage, Reheating & Freezing Guide
This soup is perfect for pairing with a warm crusty bread or a fresh salad. It’s a comforting meal that works as a standalone dinner or as an appetizer for a larger meal. Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk if needed. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. However, the cheese may separate a little upon reheating. Stir well to bring it back together.
The Best Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup
This Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup is a creamy, comforting dish that's easy to make and packed with rich flavor. Simply throw the ingredients into the slow cooker and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal!
- 4 Cups Broccoli
- 1 Cup Carrots
- 1 Medium Onion
- 3 Cloves Garlic
- 4 Cups Chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 Cups Half and Half
- 2 Cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Pepper
Prep the Veggies: Chop the broccoli, carrots, and onion. Be sure to cut the broccoli into small florets to ensure even cooking.
Combine in Crockpot: Add the chopped vegetables, broth, half and half, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the crockpot. Stir gently.
Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours until the vegetables are tender.
Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cook for an additional 15 minutes until melted and smooth.
Blend for Smoothness (Optional): For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend half of the soup, then mix it back in.
Serve: Ladle into bowls, and top with extra shredded cheddar cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
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Make it Spicy: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño along with the garlic. It will give the soup a delightful kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base.
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Add Protein: To make this soup heartier, consider adding cooked chicken, bacon bits, or sausage. These additions will enhance the flavor and turn the soup into a more filling meal.
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Keep it Fresh: For an extra burst of freshness, garnish your soup with freshly chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.
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Customize Your Cheese: While sharp cheddar is the best for bold flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack to change up the flavor profile.
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Make it Lighter: If you’re looking for a lighter version, substitute the half-and-half with a low-fat milk or almond milk. The texture may be slightly less creamy, but it will still be delicious.
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Freezing Tips: If you plan to freeze the soup, do so after it has cooled completely. When reheating, you may need to stir it well to bring the texture back together, especially if the cheese has separated a bit.
FAQs
This Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup is an easy and satisfying meal that brings comfort in every bite. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with nutrients—everything you want in a bowl of soup. Try it today and let us know how it turned out in the comments below! Happy cooking!
