π₯¦β¨ Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup β¨π§
A rich, creamy, and comforting slow cooker soup packed with tender broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and delicious savory flavors. This easy Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is perfect for chilly evenings, busy weekdays, or whenever you crave a warm homemade meal.
π Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup, or cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Β½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- Β½ teaspoon black pepper
- ΒΌ teaspoon paprika, optional
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water, optional, for thickening
π©βπ³ Instructions
1. Prepare the vegetables. Wash the broccoli thoroughly and cut it into small florets. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Add the ingredients to the slow cooker. Place the broccoli, diced onion, garlic, broth, condensed soup, butter, salt, black pepper, and optional paprika into the Crockpot. Stir gently to combine.
3. Slow cook the soup. Cover and cook on LOW for 3β4 hours or HIGH for approximately 2 hours, until the broccoli is tender. Cooking times vary by appliance, so check the vegetables toward the end.
4. Add the cream. Stir in the heavy cream until the soup becomes smooth and creamy.
5. Add the cheddar cheese. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar, a handful at a time, until melted. For the smoothest texture, use freshly grated cheese and avoid boiling the soup after adding the dairy.
6. Adjust the consistency. For a thicker soup, mix the cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the hot soup. Cook on HIGH for another 10β15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Alternatively, mash a few broccoli florets into the soup for a naturally thicker texture.
7. Serve and enjoy. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheddar and freshly ground black pepper.
π‘ Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Use freshly shredded cheddar: It usually melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
- Keep the heat gentle: High heat can cause cheese to separate or become grainy.
- Choose your texture: Mash some broccoli for a rustic soup, or blend a portion for a smoother consistency.
- Add extra flavor: A small pinch of paprika or mustard powder complements the cheddar beautifully.
- Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and a vegetarian-friendly condensed soup.
π§ Storage
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3β4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring frequently and avoiding a boil. The soup may thicken in the refrigerator, so add a little broth or milk when reheating.
For best texture, freezing is not recommended because cream and cheese soups can separate after thawing.
β€οΈ Enjoy Every Spoonful!
This Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is warm, cheesy, and full of comforting flavor. Serve it with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh salad for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.
Would you eat this creamy broccoli cheddar soup? ππ₯¦π§