Imagine the aroma of warm, cheesy broccoli wafting through your kitchen, beckoning everyone to gather around the table. This is not just any ordinary soup; it’s Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup, a delightful blend of creamy textures and savory flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy. perfect appetizer for soup Just picture it: a hearty bowl of velvety soup, rich in cheese and bursting with the goodness of fresh broccoli. perfect drink for a cold evening quick and easy dessert option a delightful dessert pairing It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little pick-me-up.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
- How do I thicken my Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup?
- Can I make this soup vegan?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Now, let me take you back to that one rainy day when I decided to whip up this magical concoction. As I savored the first spoonful, my kids burst into the kitchen, lured by the irresistible scent. Their eyes lit up with delight as they exclaimed, “This is the best soup ever!” It’s moments like these that make cooking so rewarding. So grab your crockpot and let’s dive into this delicious adventure!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup is incredibly easy to prepare; just toss everything in and forget about it!
- The flavor profile is rich and satisfying, with creamy cheese and tender broccoli harmonizing beautifully
- Visually, the vibrant green of the broccoli against the golden cheese makes for a stunning presentation
- It’s versatile enough to serve as a main dish or a comforting appetizer before dinner
I remember hosting a cozy gathering where this soup stole the show, leaving everyone asking for seconds.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets that are firm and free of yellow spots for optimal flavor.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Go for freshly grated cheese for better melting and richer taste; it makes all the difference.
- Onion: Use a medium onion for sweetness; sautéing it first brings out its natural sugars.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add depth; chop them finely to release their aromatic oils effectively.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels while enhancing flavor.
- Milk or Cream: For extra creaminess, use whole milk or heavy cream; it elevates the soup’s texture significantly.
- Salt and Pepper: Adjust these according to taste; seasoning enhances all other flavors present in the dish.
- Optional Toppings: Croutons or additional cheese can be used for garnish; they add texture and visual appeal.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Veggies: Begin by washing and cutting your broccoli into small florets. Dice your onion and mince garlic cloves finely for optimal flavor extraction.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a pan over medium heat, add some oil and sauté onions until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic until fragrant but not browned.
Add Ingredients to Crockpot: Transfer sautéed onions and garlic into your crockpot along with broccoli florets. Pour in chicken broth and stir well to combine everything. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe.
Creamy Magic Happens!: Pour in milk or cream next; this gives our soup that luscious texture we crave. Add salt and pepper for seasoning before giving it another good stir.
Crock It Up!: Set your crockpot on low for about 6 hours or high for 3 hours until broccoli is tender. This slow cooking allows flavors to develop beautifully.
Blend Until Smooth (Optional): For an ultra-creamy soup experience, use an immersion blender right in the crockpot or transfer batches carefully into a regular blender until smooth.
With these simple steps, you’re ready to enjoy this delicious bowl of goodness!
Now sit back and relax while your kitchen fills with mouthwatering aromas that’ll have everyone asking what’s cooking!
You Must Know
- This Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup is creamy, comforting, and perfect for chilly evenings
- It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl
- The rich aroma of melted cheese and fresh broccoli will make your kitchen feel like a cozy cafe
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot for maximum flavor. Layer the broccoli, then pour the broth over everything. Lastly, add cheese during the last 30 minutes for that gooey goodness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out half-and-half for milk if you want a lighter texture or toss in some cooked chicken for added protein. Spice things up with crushed red pepper flakes for an unexpected kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess without burning.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh broccoli for vibrant color and texture; frozen can become mushy
- Adjust the amount of cheese based on your preference; more equals creamier soup
- Adding a splash of lemon juice brightens flavors beautifully, enhancing each spoonful
Making this soup always reminds me of cozy winter nights spent with family. One time, we had a soup-off, and my version won! Everyone agreed it was love at first bite.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
Yes, but fresh broccoli will provide better texture and flavor overall.
How do I thicken my Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup?
For more inspiration, check out this caramel coconut cookies recipe.
Add a cornstarch slurry or reduce the broth slightly during cooking for thickness.
Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute plant-based cheese and almond milk for a delicious vegan version.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup is a comforting and creamy delight that transforms fresh broccoli into a velvety, cheesy masterpiece. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this easy-to-make soup fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Just toss in your ingredients and let the slow cooker do the magic while you enjoy quality time with loved ones.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Croutons or extra cheese for topping
Instructions
- Wash and cut broccoli into small florets. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- In a pan over medium heat, sauté onions in oil until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Transfer sautéed onions and garlic to the crockpot. Add broccoli and pour in broth; stir well.
- Pour in milk or cream, season with salt and pepper, and stir again.
- Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until broccoli is tender.
- For a creamy texture, blend the soup using an immersion blender or in batches in a regular blender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
