Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate creamy, comforting dish. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich, velvety soup that’s packed with flavor. The broccoli provides a healthy base, while the cheddar cheese adds a melty, indulgent touch. Plus, the slow cooker does all the hard work, making it an easy, hands-off meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as a starter for any meal.
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Place the broccoli, onion, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper into the Crockpot.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Once the broccoli is tender, partially blend the soup using an immersion blender to achieve a creamy consistency. You can blend it to your desired level of smoothness, leaving some broccoli chunks for texture.
- Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cook on high for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
- Serve hot with freshly cracked black pepper.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Cooking Time: 4-6 hours on low
- Additional Time for Cheese Melting: 10 minutes on high
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version of this soup.
- Add Protein: Add cooked chicken for extra protein and flavor.
- Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Dairy-Free: To make this soup dairy-free, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and vegan cheese in place of cheddar.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat. Add a little extra broth or cream if the soup has thickened too much.
FAQs
How long can I keep leftovers of Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just ensure it is thawed before adding it to the Crockpot for the best results.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a few days or frozen for longer storage. Simply reheat it when ready to serve.
Can I use a regular blender instead of an immersion blender?
Yes, you can use a regular blender. Just be sure to allow the soup to cool slightly before blending, and blend in batches if necessary.
Can I use a different cheese besides cheddar?
You can use other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
What should I do if the soup is too thick?
If the soup turns out too thick, you can add a bit more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Use vegetable broth, coconut cream, and dairy-free cheese for a completely vegan version.
Can I add more vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or even a handful of spinach for extra nutrition.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure all ingredients, especially the broth and cheese, are gluten-free.
How do I store the soup if I want to freeze it?
Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container as the soup expands when frozen.
Conclusion
Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is an easy, creamy, and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender broccoli and melted cheddar creates a rich and satisfying flavor, while the slow cooker makes it effortless to prepare. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or a side, this soup is sure to warm you up and leave you craving more!
Print
Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup
- Total Time: 4.5 to 6.5 hours
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, comforting dish packed with tender broccoli and melted cheddar cheese. Made effortlessly in the slow cooker, this soup is perfect for cozy dinners or as a starter. Customize it with extra veggies or proteins for a hearty, delicious meal everyone will love. Ideal for make-ahead meals and leftovers that taste even better the next day!
Ingredients
4 cups broccoli florets
1 onion, diced
4 cups chicken broth
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
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Place broccoli, onion, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper into the Crockpot.
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Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until broccoli is tender.
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Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some broccoli chunks for texture.
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Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese.
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Cook on high for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
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Serve hot with freshly cracked black pepper.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Spice things up with cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
To make dairy-free, use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese options.
This soup is perfect for freezing, so feel free to make a batch ahead of time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food, Crockpot Recipes
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American