Craving that creamy, cheesy goodness of restaurant-style broccoli cheese soup without the restaurant price tag? This Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup recipe is your answer! With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of this cheesy delight right in your own kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with a rich, flavorful soup everyone will love and ranking high on taste and convenience!
What is Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup?
Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup is a simple yet incredibly satisfying soup made by slow-cooking broccoli and cheese in a creamy broth. This method allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a deep, rich, and comforting soup that rivals any restaurant version. It’s perfect for a cold day or a cozy night in, offering a healthy dose of vegetables and a generous helping of cheesy goodness.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; you can simply toss the ingredients into your crockpot and let it work its magic! Unlike stovetop versions, the slow cooker prevents scorching and ensures a perfectly smooth texture. This soup is customizable, too! Add your favorite seasonings or cheese blends to give it your personal touch. So, are you ready to ditch the dining out and enjoy a warm, homemade bowl of pure comfort? Give this Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup a try – you won’t regret it!
Key Ingredients for Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup:
- 4 cups broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen broccoli, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Low-sodium chicken broth is recommended to control the saltiness.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds aromatic flavor to the soup.
- 2 carrots, chopped: Contributes sweetness and texture.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Adds a subtle savory note.
- 1/2 cup butter: Adds richness and flavor.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Used to create a roux, thickening the soup.
- 2 cups milk: Adds creaminess to the soup. Whole milk will make for the richest flavor, but 2% or skim can be used for a lighter option.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: For extra creaminess and tang.
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use your favorite blend.
- 1 teaspoon salt: To enhance the flavors. Adjust to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice. Adjust to taste.
- Optional toppings: Shredded cheese, croutons, bacon bits, sour cream, hot sauce.
How to Make Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup:
Making Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup is incredibly easy! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Simply toss your veggies and broth into the slow cooker, let it simmer for a few hours, and then add the creamy, cheesy goodness. In just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a restaurant-quality soup ready to enjoy whenever you are! The best part is the creamy texture and rich cheesy flavor that comes from the slow cooking process.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables: Chop the onion, carrots, and celery. Ensure the broccoli florets are cut into bite-sized pieces. Larger pieces of broccoli will take longer to cook.
- Combine Initial Ingredients in the Crockpot: Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and broccoli florets to the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the vegetables are mostly covered.
- Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the broccoli is tender. The cooking time depends on your slow cooker, so check veggie tenderness after the minimum time.
- Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste forms. This is your roux, which will thicken the soup. Be careful to prevent burning the roux.
- Add Milk to the Roux: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. The milk should be warm before going into the crockpot but not boiling.
- Combine Roux with Slow Cooker Contents: Pour the milk mixture into the slow cooker. Stir well to combine with the vegetables and broth.
- Add Cream Cheese and Cheddar Cheese: Add the softened cream cheese to the crockpot. Stir until the cream cheese is completely melted and incorporated into the soup. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, one cup at a time, stirring until melted after each addition. Ensure the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
- Season to Taste: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Start with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, then adjust as needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the soup hot, garnished with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, croutons, bacon bits, or a dollop of sour cream.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup:
This Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup is pure comfort in a bowl! The main highlight is its incredible creaminess and rich cheesy flavor that’s almost identical to restaurant-quality soup, but made effortlessly at home.
Making this soup at home is a huge cost-saver compared to constantly ordering from restaurants. You control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier and more budget-friendly meal for you and your family.
What makes this soup special is the freedom to customize with your favorite toppings. A sprinkle of crispy bacon bits, a swirl of sour cream, or a dash of hot sauce takes it to the next level.
If you’re a fan of creamy soups, try our Crockpot Potato Soup. But seriously, this Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup needs to be on your meal plan this week. Ready to warm up with a bowl of homemade goodness? Give it a try and see for yourself!
What to Serve Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup With:
Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup is delicious on its own, but here are some ideas to create a complete and satisfying meal:
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing that adds extra comfort and warmth.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
- Side Salad: Balances the richness of the soup with a fresh, crisp salad.
- Ham or Turkey Sandwich: A hearty combination for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Top Tips for Perfecting Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup:
- Cut Vegetables Evenly: Ensure the vegetables are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Use a Good Quality Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can affect melting, so shredding your own is preferable.
- Soften Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened before adding it to the slow cooker to prevent lumps.
- Gradually Add Cheese: Add the cheddar cheese gradually, stirring until melted after each addition to ensure a smooth texture.
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooking the broccoli can result in a mushy texture. Keep an eye on it and adjust the cooking time as needed.
- For a Smoother Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree some of the soup before adding the cheese for an even creamier texture.
- Make the Roux Ahead of Time: Save time by preparing the roux ahead of time; reheat it before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Ingredient Substitutions: For a lighter soup, use low-fat milk and cheese. You can also replace some of the cheddar cheese with a lighter, more flavorless cheese like Monterey Jack.
- Timing Adjustments: If you’re short on time, cook on high for a shorter period, but keep a close eye on the vegetables to prevent overcooking.
5 Facts about Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup:
- Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamins C and K, which are essential for immune function and bone health.
- Cheddar cheese is a good source of calcium and protein, vital for strong bones and muscle development.
- Crockpot cooking helps preserve nutrients by cooking at a lower temperature over a longer period.
- The first recipe for broccoli cheese soup appeared in print in the early 1970s, quickly becoming a popular comfort food.
- This soup freezes well, making it a great option for meal prepping or enjoying later.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
- Storing: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat refrigerated soup, pour it into a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
- Freezing: After thawing frozen soup in the refrigerator, reheat as instructed above. Note that the texture may change after freezing, but the flavor should remain delicious.
- Dont freeze with the cheese included as this may affect its texture.
Final Thoughts:
Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup is a perfect dish for anyone looking for a comforting, easy, and delicious meal. Its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and nutritional benefits make it a winner. This recipe will surely become a family favorite, whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner! So, gather your ingredients, dust off the slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure happiness.
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest
Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup FAQs:
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes! Frozen broccoli works great in this recipe. No need to thaw it first; add it directly to the crockpot.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack for a unique flavor profile.
Q: Do I need to cook the roux?
A: Yes, cooking the roux ensures that the soup is creamy and doesn’t have a floury taste.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.
Q: How do I prevent the cheese from separating?
A: Add the cheese gradually and stir until completely melted to prevent separation. Ensure the soup isn’t boiling when you add the cheese.