There’s just something magical about a warm bowl of soup, don’t you think? It wraps you in comfort like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. My favorite? Crockpot broccoli cheddar soup! This dish is creamy, cheesy, and super easy to whip up—all thanks to my trusty crockpot. I remember the first time I made it; I was knee-deep in a busy week, and the idea of dinner felt overwhelming. But oh boy, as soon as that delicious aroma filled my kitchen after just a few hours, I knew I was onto something special! The combination of tender broccoli and rich cheddar creates a hug-in-a-bowl experience that really lifts the spirits. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked on this comforting classic!
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh is best for that vibrant flavor!)
- 1 cup diced onion (this adds a lovely sweetness)
- 2 cups vegetable broth (for that perfect base)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (the star of the show, don’t skimp on this!)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for that creamy, dreamy texture)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (a little flavor boost)
- Salt to taste (season to your preference)
- Pepper to taste (just a pinch or more, it’s up to you!)
How to Prepare Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Base
Alright, let’s get started! First things first, grab your crockpot and place those beautiful 4 cups of broccoli florets in there. I like to chop them up into bite-sized pieces for easy eating later. Next, toss in 1 cup of diced onion. The sweetness of the onion pairs perfectly with the broccoli! Now, pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth. This will create a lovely base for our soup, making it rich and flavorful.
Cooking Time
Now, it’s time to let the magic happen! Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 4 hours. I usually check around the 3-hour mark to see how tender the broccoli is. You want it soft enough to blend easily, but not mushy. The smell? Oh, it’s going to be heavenly!
Adding Flavor
Once the broccoli is nice and tender, it’s flavor time! Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir to mix everything together. The garlic really elevates the dish, trust me!
Final Touches
Next up, we’re adding that luscious creaminess! Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. This is where the magic truly happens. Cook for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and create that rich, cheesy goodness we all love.
Blending Options
If you prefer a smoother texture, now’s your chance! You can use an immersion blender right in the crockpot, or carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches. Blend until it’s as smooth as you like it, then return it to the pot. Voila! Your creamy, dreamy crockpot broccoli cheddar soup is ready to be devoured!
Nutritional Information
Just a quick note before we dive into the numbers—nutrition facts can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so consider these values as a general guideline rather than an exact science. That said, here’s what you can typically expect from a serving of my delicious crockpot broccoli cheddar soup:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 10g
So, as you can see, it’s packed with cheesy goodness while still being a comforting, hearty meal. Enjoy every spoonful, knowing you’re treating yourself to something delicious and satisfying!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work!
- Rich, creamy flavors that are totally comforting, perfect for any chilly day.
- Vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for everyone at the table.
- Leftovers are just as delicious, so you can enjoy it again the next day!
- Customizable to your taste; feel free to add extra veggies or spices for a personal touch.
- Filling and satisfying, it’s a complete meal in a bowl.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, always opt for fresh broccoli and good quality cheddar cheese. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!
- Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can reduce the amount of broth or add a bit more heavy cream. On the flip side, if you like it thinner, just add a splash more broth.
- Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is a classic, feel free to mix it up! A blend of sharp cheddar and gruyère or even some parmesan can elevate the flavor even more.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: Letting the soup cook on low for the full time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for about 2 hours, but I find low and slow works best!
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley on top before serving adds a lovely pop of color and freshness!
- Serve with Crusty Bread: This soup is perfect for dipping! A nice crusty baguette or some warm rolls can make your meal feel extra special.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got some leftovers? Lucky you! Crockpot broccoli cheddar soup is just as delicious the next day. To store it, let the soup cool down to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to label it if you have a lot of goodies in there; we don’t want any mystery meals, right?
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, reheating is a breeze. You can simply pour it into a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until it’s warmed through. If you prefer, you can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl. Just cover it loosely to avoid splatters and heat for about 1-2 minutes, giving it a good stir halfway through.
If the soup has thickened up a bit in the fridge, don’t worry! Just add a splash of water or broth while reheating to get that creamy consistency back. Enjoy your cozy bowl of soup again, and maybe even with some fresh bread on the side! Yum!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen broccoli in this soup?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just fine in this recipe. Just toss it in the crockpot at the same time as the fresh ingredients. It may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on it!
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative, and use vegan cheese for a delicious dairy-free version. Just make sure to adjust the seasonings to your taste!
How can I make this soup spicier?
If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when you’re mixing in the spices. You can also top it with some jalapeños or a drizzle of spicy oil before serving.
What can I serve with crockpot broccoli cheddar soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh side salad. It’s a complete meal on its own but adding a side can elevate your dining experience!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. It should keep well in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
For more delicious soup recipes, check out this broccoli cheddar soup recipe for a delightful twist!
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Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup: 4 Steps to Cozy Comfort
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and comforting soup made with broccoli and cheddar cheese, cooked slowly in a crockpot.
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place broccoli, onion, and vegetable broth in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 4 hours or until broccoli is tender.
- Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese.
- Cook for an additional 30 minutes until cheese melts.
- Blend the soup for a smoother texture if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli for best flavor.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more or less cream.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: crockpot broccoli cheddar soup
