Description

This Crock-Pot Broccoli Cheese Soup is the perfect recipe for when you want a warm, comforting meal with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld together and creating a creamy, cheesy soup that’s packed with tender broccoli. Perfect for a chilly day or whenever you’re craving something cozy, this soup is sure to be a hit with the whole family

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by chopping the fresh broccoli into small florets. If using frozen broccoli, make sure it is fully thawed and drained. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Assemble the Ingredients in the Crock-Pot
In the base of your slow cooker, combine the broccoli florets, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the salt, pepper, and any optional spices like nutmeg or smoked paprika for added flavor.

Step 3: Cook on Low
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the broccoli is tender and the flavors have melded together. This slow cooking process allows the vegetables to soften and the soup base to become rich and flavorful.

Step 4: Thicken the Soup
About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is golden brown and smooth. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps, and cook until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Cheese
Stir the thickened cream mixture into the slow cooker, making sure it’s fully incorporated. Add the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Let the soup cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to combine fully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the soup is fully cooked and creamy, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the broccoli cheese soup hot, garnished with additional shredded cheese, croutons, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired. This soup pairs perfectly with a side of crusty bread for dipping

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tips
Use Different Cheeses: For a more complex flavor, try mixing in other cheeses like sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or even a little Parmesan.
Add Protein: For a heartier meal, stir in some cooked, diced chicken or ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Blended Variation: For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree the soup before adding the cheese, or blend part of the soup to keep some texture.
Make it Vegetarian: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make this soup vegetarian-friendly.
Conclusion
This Crock-Pot Broccoli Cheese Soup is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal prep and the ease of slow cooking, it’s a recipe that you can set and forget, coming back to a delicious, homemade meal. The combination of tender broccoli, rich cheddar cheese, and a hint of spice makes this soup a family favorite. Serve it up with your favorite bread or a simple salad, and enjoy the cozy, satisfying flavors of this classic soup!