Crockpot Broccoli and Cheddar Soup
There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of simmering soup wafting through the house on a chilly evening. As the temperature drops and leaves begin to turn, the idea of a warm bowl of something delicious tucked away in the slow cooker becomes increasingly inviting. One of my favorite recipes has to be this delightful Crockpot Broccoli and Cheddar Soup. It’s the perfect way to incorporate some green goodness into your dinner while indulging in velvety cheese.
Growing up, my family always had soup on the table during the fall. It was a cherished ritual that brought us together after long days. This soup evokes those sweet memories for me, with its creamy texture and the irresistible combo of broccoli and cheddar. Plus, making it in the crockpot means it’s low-effort and high-reward. If you’re searching for a recipe that embodies comfort but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, you’ve found it with this delicious Crockpot Broccoli and Cheddar Soup.
Kitchen Essentials You’ll Need
Creating a delicious soup doesn’t require a fancy kitchen, but having the right tools can make all the difference in your cooking experience. Here are a few essentials I recommend having on hand:
- Crockpot: The heart of this recipe, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over time.
- Sharp knife: For easy chopping of vegetables.
- Cutting board: To keep your workspace organized and tidy.
- Immersion blender: To achieve that smooth, creamy consistency effortlessly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure your ingredients are just right.
These tools will help you whip up this comforting soup with ease and confidence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup is more than just a warm meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. The rich, creamy texture combined with the robust flavor of cheddar and the freshness of broccoli creates a mouthwatering experience that you’ll crave time and again. Here are a few reasons to love this Crockpot Broccoli and Cheddar Soup:
- Flavorful Comfort: Smooth, creamy, and packed with savory goodness. Each spoonful is full of rich cheese flavor balanced with the earthiness of broccoli.
- Convenient Cooking: Simply toss all your ingredients into the crockpot, set it, forget it, and come back to a steaming pot of deliciousness hours later.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with veggies, this soup is a great way to sneak some greens into your diet without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a hearty main dish, or pair it with crusty bread for a cozy meal that the whole family will adore.
The depth of flavor and ease of preparation will make this dish a staple in your home.
Crockpot Broccoli and Cheddar Soup Ingredients
To prepare this delicious soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients blend together to create the perfect balance of creamy and savory that everyone loves.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this soup is so straightforward and rewarding. Here’s how to do it:
- Begin by chopping the broccoli into manageable florets and setting them aside. Watching those bright green pieces adds a zest to your workspace.
- In your crockpot, combine the freshly chopped broccoli, vegetable broth, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Gently stir to mix everything together well, ensuring all the flavors mingle harmoniously.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the broccoli is tender, giving off an enticing aroma that fills your kitchen.
- Once the broccoli is tender, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency. The transformation from chunky to creamy is where the magic happens.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream, letting the richness of the cheese be absorbed into the soup. Cook on low for an additional 30 minutes until everything is perfectly melted together and creamy.
- Finally, taste your creation and season with salt and pepper before serving. Adjusting the seasoning will elevate your dish from good to amazing!
Fun Variations You Can Try
While I adore the classic version of this soup, there are countless ways to make it your own. Here are some fun variations you can experiment with:
- Add protein: Toss in some cooked chicken or white beans for added substance.
- Experiment with cheese: Swap out cheddar for Gruyère or add a bit of blue cheese for a punch of flavor.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick if you like a bit of heat.
- Use more vegetables: Toss in carrots or celery for a heartier mix of flavors.
- Make it vegan: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Have fun with this recipe, and don’t hesitate to make it your own!
How I Love to Serve It
Serving soup is as much about the presentation as it is about the taste. I love to ladle this creamy goodness into warm bowls and pair it with thick slices of crusty bread. There’s something so satisfying about dipping bread into that velvety soup, soaking up every last drop.
For extra flair, sprinkle some fresh herbs such as parsley or chives on top for a pop of color. Serve it with a side salad for a complete meal, and maybe light a few candles to create a cozy atmosphere. That comforting aroma fills the room, inviting everyone to come gather around the table to enjoy a nurturing meal together.
Helpful Tips from My Kitchen
Cooking should be fun and straightforward, so here are some helpful tips I’ve learned along the way when making this delicious soup:
- Prep ahead: If you’re short on time, chop your veggies the night before. This reduces prep time when you’re ready to cook.
- Consistency adjustments: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply reduce the amount of vegetable broth slightly. You can always add more if needed.
- Cheese choice: Grate your own cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese. It melts better and creates a creamier texture.
- Make it in advance: This soup actually tastes better the next day. Prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate for a busy weeknight.
- Don’t rush the cooking time: Give the crockpot enough time for the flavors to develop fully. It’s worth the wait!
Important Cooking Reminders
When making your Crockpot Broccoli and Cheddar Soup, keeping a few important notes in mind can help ensure success:
Always be cautious with hot liquids. Use oven mitts when handling the crockpot to prevent burns.
For best results, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
To reheat, use the stovetop on low heat to avoid overheating and possibly splitting the cream.
Common mistakes to avoid include overcrowding the crockpot. Ensure you’re following the ingredient quantities specified for the best outcome.
Safety notes: Ensure to clean with hot soapy water after handling recipes with cream to avoid cross-contamination.
Reheating methods: Gently warm on the stove to maintain creamy consistency.
Nutritional Information (Estimated)
This delicious soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
- Carbs: 15 grams
- Fat: 30 grams
- Protein: 10 grams
This hearty soup is a wonderful addition to any meal, providing a great source of vitamins from the broccoli along with the creamy richness of cheese.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Common Questions You Might Have
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen broccoli. Just remember to adjust the cooking time since frozen vegetables may soften faster than fresh.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Definitely! This soup is great when made in advance. Simply store it in the refrigerator for up to three days, and reheat it when you’re ready to enjoy!
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with a loaf of crusty bread, a simple salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete comfort meal.
Conclusion
Coming home to a warm bowl of soup at the end of a long day is truly one of life’s simple joys. This Crockpot Broccoli and Cheddar Soup has a way of wrapping you up in flavor and comfort, just like a cherished memory from childhood. The simplicity of preparation and the rich, creamy taste makes it perfect for family gatherings, weekday dinners, or even a night curled up on the couch with your favorite book.
As you explore this recipe, I hope it inspires you to create moments of warmth and joy in your own kitchen. Just remember, the best meals are meant to be shared, creating bonds and delightful memories around the dinner table. Let this Crockpot Broccoli and Cheddar Soup be your next go-to dish that everyone craves, because there’s simply nothing like homemade comfort food.
Print
Crockpot Broccoli and Cheddar Soup
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and creamy broccoli and cheddar soup made effortlessly in a slow cooker.
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Chop broccoli into manageable florets and set aside.
- In your crockpot, combine broccoli, vegetable broth, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Stir well.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours until broccoli is tender.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream; cook on low for an additional 30 minutes until melted and creamy.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper before serving.
Notes
Feel free to add protein or other vegetables as desired. This soup can be made in advance and reheats well.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: soup, broccoli, cheddar, crockpot, comfort food, vegetarian