Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Introduction
Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting and delicious dish perfect for a cozy meal. This easy-to-make soup combines fresh broccoli, creamy cheese, and savory seasonings to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. Ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe requires minimal prep work and delivers maximum taste. Once you try this creamy, cheesy soup, it will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 6 cups broccoli florets (from 2 heads of broccoli)
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 oz. cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
Additional Ingredients:
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for added depth of flavor
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by preparing your vegetables. Wash and chop the broccoli into small florets. Chop the onion and shred the carrots if not using pre-shredded carrots. Mince the garlic.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot
Add the chopped broccoli, onion, shredded carrots, minced garlic, and cream cheese to the crockpot. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth.
Step 3: Cook the Soup
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only part of the soup and leave some vegetables whole.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Cream
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and half-and-half or heavy cream. Continue to cook on low for another 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is heated through.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If using, stir in the Dijon mustard for an added flavor boost. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, optionally garnished with extra shredded cheese or croutons.
Tips for the Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Use Fresh Broccoli
Fresh broccoli will give you the best flavor and texture. If you must use frozen broccoli, be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the crockpot.
Don’t Overcook the Vegetables
Cooking the vegetables until just tender will preserve their flavor and texture. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy and lose its vibrant color.
Blend Carefully
If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender. Be sure to blend in batches and allow the soup to cool slightly before blending to avoid splatters and burns.
Cheese Selection
Use a good quality, sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the soup, so shredding your own cheese is recommended.
Creaminess
For an extra creamy soup, use heavy cream instead of half-and-half. You can also add an extra ounce of cream cheese for more richness.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this soup vegetarian-friendly.
Can I freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I serve with Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
This soup pairs well with a crusty bread, garlic bread, or a side salad. It’s also delicious served in a bread bowl.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. You can also reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Yes, feel free to add other vegetables such as cauliflower, potatoes, or spinach. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure all vegetables are tender.
Conclusion
Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any meal. With fresh broccoli, creamy cheese, and savory seasonings, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Follow these simple steps and tips to create a delicious, homemade soup that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Enjoy!