Creamy Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup for Busy Days
Nothing beats the warmth of a delicious bowl of broccoli cheddar soup on a chilly day, especially when it’s made effortlessly in a crockpot. This creamy soup is perfect for those busy days when you want a meal that practically cooks itself. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup will quickly become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, this soup is perfect for all broccoli and cheese lovers!
With just a few steps in the morning, you can come home to a warm, comforting soup. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Hands-off cooking in the crockpot frees up your time.
- Uses fresh ingredients for maximum flavor.
- Creamy, cheesy, and full of nutrients from the broccoli.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this crowd-pleasing soup:
- 1 pound fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced or shredded
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated (divided)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra depth)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pro Tip
Use sharp cheddar cheese to give the soup a richer, bolder flavor. Freshly grating the cheese instead of using pre-shredded cheese helps it melt smoothly into the soup.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing and chopping the broccoli florets and carrots. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot
Place the broccoli, carrots, diced onion, garlic, and broth into the crockpot. Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and paprika for seasoning.
Step 3: Set and Forget
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. This slow cooking will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Blend to Perfection
Once the vegetables are soft, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, only blend half of the soup and leave some broccoli and carrots in pieces.
Pro Tip: If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and pulse until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Add the Cream and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Allow the soup to cook on low for an additional 10-15 minutes to let the cheese melt and the flavors come together.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once the soup is hot and creamy, give it a taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of paprika for extra color.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this delicious, creamy soup with:
- Crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping
- A simple side salad for a balanced meal
- Grilled cheese for an extra-cheesy pairing
Tips for Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: This soup freezes well! Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat. Stir well and add a little extra cream or broth if the soup is too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets instead of fresh ones! Just add them straight to the crockpot without thawing, and they’ll cook perfectly with the other ingredients.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
What Type of Cheese Works Best?
For the creamiest texture and richest taste, use sharp cheddar. However, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere or a smoked cheddar for different flavors.
This Creamy Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is an easy, comforting meal that fits into even the busiest of schedules. Just a few minutes of prep, and you’ll have a rich, hearty, and flavorful soup waiting for you at the end of the day. Enjoy!
