Introduction to Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup
When the chill of winter wraps around us, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of warm, creamy soup. Enter Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup – a simple yet profoundly delicious dish that combines the earthy flavors of broccoli with the rich, velvety texture of cheddar cheese. This soup not only satisfies the soul but also is straightforward to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks looking for a flavorful meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
- 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1⁄3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk, whole or 2%
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1⁄2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg, optional
🍲 Note: For a richer flavor, consider using aged or extra-sharp cheddar.
Preparation Steps
Preparing Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is as easy as it gets. Here’s how you can enjoy a steaming bowl:
- Prepare the Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, wash and cut it into florets. For frozen, simply measure out the required amount.
- Sauté Base Ingredients: In your crockpot, add butter. If you want to accelerate the cooking process, you can also do this step in a separate pan on the stove. Sauté the chopped onions and garlic until they’re translucent. This usually takes about 5 minutes.
- Add Broth and Broccoli: Pour in the broth and add the broccoli to your crockpot, stirring gently to mix with the sautéed onions and garlic.
- Thicken the Soup: Combine flour with some of the milk to create a slurry, then gradually stir this into the crockpot. This will help thicken the soup as it cooks.
- Cook Low and Slow: Set your slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. The goal is to cook the broccoli until tender, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Incorporate Dairy: Near the end of the cooking time, stir in the milk, heavy cream, and cheese. Let everything heat through, ensuring the cheese melts completely.
- Blend for Creaminess: For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender or carefully transfer batches to a blender. Blend until your desired consistency is reached. Remember, if you’re using a standard blender, let the soup cool slightly to avoid a heat explosion.
- Season: Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if you prefer. Adjust seasonings to taste.
🥄 Note: Adding cheese in small handfuls and stirring well between each addition prevents clumping.
Serving Suggestions
This soup can be served in various ways:
- As a main dish with some crusty bread on the side for dipping
- With a sprinkle of extra cheese or croutons on top
- Accompanied by a salad for a lighter meal
- Alongside a sandwich for a comforting lunch
Variations
While the classic recipe is divine, consider these variations to suit different tastes or dietary needs:
- Low-Fat Version: Use skim milk or a non-dairy alternative, and opt for low-fat cheese or nutritional yeast.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with coconut oil, use vegetable broth, and replace dairy products with plant-based alternatives.
- Additional Vegetables: Throw in some carrots, cauliflower, or even spinach for added nutrition.
In the realm of slow cooker cuisine, Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup stands out as a testament to the beauty of minimalistic cooking. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you can conjure a meal that comforts and delights, proving that simplicity can indeed translate into greatness. Each spoonful carries the warmth and flavor that make it a perennial favorite, not just in cold weather, but whenever you crave that particular sense of homeliness and coziness.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
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Yes, frozen broccoli works just as well as fresh, and there’s no need to thaw it first. Just add the frozen broccoli directly to the crockpot.
How can I thicken the soup if it’s too runny?
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If your soup is too thin, you can mix a little bit of cornstarch or additional flour with cold water to make a slurry. Stir this into the soup and let it cook for a few more minutes until it thickens.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
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Yes, you can freeze this soup. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. When reheating, you might need to thin it out with a bit of milk or broth.
How long can the soup last in the refrigerator?
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When stored in an airtight container, the soup will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
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Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding carrots, cauliflower, or spinach to enhance the flavor profile and nutritional content of the soup.
