Okay, friends, let me tell you about this..Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar SoupIs it like a warm hug in the bowl? I grew up on broccoli cheddar soup, but the restaurant kind – you know, the one that’s usually served at a restaurant. What is loaded with…well, who knows what? This recipe? This is the real deal. It’s the type of meal that brings back so many great memories. Is it really that easy to toss everything in the crockpot and come home to the most amazing food? My kids practically inhale it, and even my pickiest eater asks for seconds (which is a HUGE win, let’s face it)! If you love the Panera version, but want something healthier and just as delicious (if not more)? I know I am, but if you want to try this, then you absolutely have to.
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What is a crockpot broccoli cheddar soup?
Think of Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar SoupAs the ultimate comfort food, reimagined for busy weeknights. What is a creamy, cheesy, veggie-packed soup that’s cooked low and slow in your crockpot? The beauty of it is that the crockpot does all the work, developing incredible flavor as it simmers. It’s far healthier and more flavorful than any canned version you’ll find, and it’re unbelievably good. Slow cooking really allows the flavors of broccoli, cheddar, and broth to meld together. What makes this soup so good? Plus, it fills your kitchen with the most comforting aroma all day long! What are some ways to make it extra fancy by garnishing it with croutons, a dollop of sour cream, or extra sweet potatoes? Is it safe to eat shredded cheese before
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some of the best broccoli cheddar soup recipes? I think you’ll fall in love with this book.
- Flavor Explosion:What is better than bland soup?Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar SoupIs bursting with cheesy goodness and the subtle, earthy sweetness of broccoli. What is the slow cooking process for soup? I always add a little nutmeg, which might sound weird, but trust me, it elevates the whole flavor.
- EffortlessWhat is crockpot magic? Seriously, you just toss everything in, set it, and forget it. No babysitting, no constant stirring, just pure set-it-and-forget bliss. Is it a lifesaver on those days when you’re running around like crazy and need to eat something delicious? Without the fuss.
- Budget FriendlyWhat are the ingredients for broccoli? They are all pretty common and affordable. We’re talking basic veggies, broth, cheese – nothing fancy required. How can I feed my family without breaking the bank?
- Super Versatile:What are some good ways to add protein to a meal? Cauliflower and carrots work perfectly together. Is there any way to adjust the consistency of the broth? Is it easy to customize a website?
What I love most about this recipe is that it tastes like you spent hours slaving away in the kitchen. When you have a crockpot in your kitchen, you let it do its thing. Plus, it’s a much healthier option than store-bought or restaurant versions. If you’re a fan of creamy tomato soup or potato soup, you’ll definitely want to add this recipe to your recipe.Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar SoupWhat are some comforting classics with a hands-off twist?
How do I make a Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Quick Overview
Making this Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar SoupIs it as simple as throwing everything into the slow cooker, setting it to low, and walking around? What happens when the flavors meld together during slow cooking? The hardest part is shredding cheese, and even that isn’t rocket science. This method is perfect because it requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. I also like to use an immersion blender at the end to make it super smooth, but that’s totally optional.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen). I usually use fresh because I think it gives it a brighter flavor, but frozen works in pinch! If you have a frozen block, just make sure to thaw it slightly.
- 4 cups chicken broth. You can use vegetable broth too, for a vegetarian version. I prefer low-sodium so I can control the salt level.
- 1 medium onion, chopped. Don’t skip this! It adds so much flavor to the base.
- 2 carrots, chopped. Adds a touch of sweetness and more nutrients.
- What are the best ways to eat garlic?
- 1/4 cup butter. What is the best way to sauté veggies in a crockpot?
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour. This helps to thicken the soup. Can you use a gluten-free blend if needed?
- I use whole milk for extra creaminess, but 2% or even almond milk works.
- What is the secret ingredient of nutmeg?
- Salt and pepper to taste.
For the Cheesy Goodness: What is
- What is the best cheddar cheese to use? Pre-shredded cheese works, but freshly shredded melts much better.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies (Optional, but Recommended) (optional)
How do you melt butter in a skillet over medium heat? Add the onion and carrots and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step is optional, but it really helps to deepen the flavor of the soup. I always do it because I think it makes a huge difference.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
In a crockpot, combine the sautéed vegetables (if using), broccoli florets, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and pepper. Set aside. Stir everything together to make sure the broccoli is mostly submerged in the broth.
Step 3: Cook on Low
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. When broccoli is done, it should be very tender and easily pierced with a fork. I find that 7 hours on low is usually perfect in my crockpot.
Step 4: Thicken the Soup
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth. Set aside. This creates a slurry that will help to thicken the soup. How do I stir the slurry into a crockpot?
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Gradually add the cheddar cheese to the crockpot, stirring constantly until it’s melted. Serve warm. Is the soup smooth and creamy? What is the best way to do this? Make sure not to add all the cheese at once, or it might clump up.
Step 6: Blend (Optional)
If you prefer a super smooth soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. Be careful when blending hot soup! You can also transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches, but make sure to vent the lid to prevent pressure from building up. I usually blend about half of the soup for a slightly chunkier texture.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with extra shredded cheese, croutons, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired. I like to add a few red pepper flakes for a little kick.
What to Serve It With
This Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with the right sides. Here are a few of my favorite serving suggestions:
- For a Light Lunch: Serve it with a simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing. The acidity of the vinaigrette will balance the richness of the soup. A grilled cheese sandwich is also a classic pairing.
- For a Hearty Dinner: Pair it with crusty bread for dipping. Sourdough or a baguette are both excellent choices. You can also add a side of roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes.
- For a Cozy Night In: Enjoy it with a glass of your favorite wine. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay would complement the soup nicely. Don’t forget a warm blanket and a good book!
When I’m feeling fancy, I like to serve this soup in bread bowls. It’s such a fun and delicious presentation! You can also get creative with the toppings. Crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, or a swirl of pesto are all great additions. Growing up my mom always made mini grilled cheese sandwiches with the left over bread crusts as dunkers, it was so yummy!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup even better. Here are my top tips:
- Broccoli Prep: Don’t overcook the broccoli! It should still have a slight bite to it. If you’re using frozen broccoli, add it in the last hour of cooking to prevent it from getting mushy. I also like to chop the broccoli into smaller pieces, so it’s easier to eat.
- Cheese Choice: Use a good quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor. Sharp cheddar is my go-to, but you can also use a blend of cheddar and Gruyere for a more complex flavor. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese if possible, as it contains cellulose that can prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Thickening Power: If you want a thicker soup, you can add more flour to the milk slurry. Start with an extra tablespoon and adjust as needed. You can also use cornstarch instead of flour, but be sure to dissolve it in cold water before adding it to the soup to prevent lumps.
- Flavor Boosters: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations! A pinch of smoked paprika, a dash of hot sauce, or a squeeze of lemon juice can all add a unique twist to the soup. I also like to add a bay leaf to the crockpot while it’s cooking for extra flavor, but be sure to remove it before serving.
- Creamy Consistency: For an ultra-creamy soup, you can add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end. This will make it even more decadent and satisfying. Just be careful not to boil the soup after adding the cream, as it can curdle.
- Blending Techniques: If you’re using an immersion blender, start on a low speed to prevent splattering. Blend in short bursts until the soup reaches your desired consistency. If you’re using a regular blender, be sure to vent the lid to prevent pressure from building up.
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that fresh ingredients really do make a difference. Using high-quality cheese, fresh broccoli, and homemade broth will elevate this soup to a whole new level. But even if you’re using store-bought ingredients, it’s still going to be delicious!
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is great for meal prepping because it stores and reheats well. Here’s what you need to know:
- Room Temperature: I really wouldn’t leave it at room temperature for more than two hours, especially if it’s warm out.
- Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the container is properly sealed to prevent the soup from drying out or absorbing odors from the fridge. I prefer to use glass containers because they’re easy to clean and don’t stain.
- Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 2-3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Leave some headspace in the containers or bags to allow for expansion during freezing. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight or in a cold water bath.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until heated through. Be careful not to overheat the soup, as this can cause the cheese to separate. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to thin it out.
One thing to keep in mind is that the texture of the soup may change slightly after freezing and thawing. It might be a little grainier, but it will still taste delicious. If you’re planning to freeze the soup, I recommend not adding the cheese until after it’s been thawed and reheated. This will help to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe! It’s the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and comforting, and it’s so easy to make. Seriously, this soup is a total lifesaver on busy weeknights. The hands-off approach allows you to prep it in the morning, let the magic happen in the slow cooker, and come home to a delicious meal the whole family will enjoy. If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy my creamy tomato soup or potato soup recipe. If you try it, please let me know how it turns out! Leave a comment below and tell me what you think. And don’t forget to share your own variations – I’m always looking for new ideas! Happy cooking!
Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth. Add broccoli florets and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until broccoli is tender.
- Stir in cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until melted and smooth.
- Serve warm.
