Print

Creamy Crockpot Cheddar Broccoli Soup: Easy 20-Min Prep Recipe

creamy crockpot cheddar broccoli soup - featured image
Print Recipe

This creamy crockpot cheddar broccoli soup is a dump-and-go recipe that delivers a velvety, cheesy, soul-hugging bowl of comfort with just 20 minutes of active prep. Perfect for busy hosts, it’s a crowd-pleaser that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 medium heads), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (about 12 ounces)
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • For garnish: extra shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, fresh chives or parsley, cracked black pepper

Instructions

  1. Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Transfer to the slow cooker: Scrape the onion and garlic mixture into a 6-quart slow cooker. Add the broccoli florets, chicken broth, milk, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and nutmeg. Stir well.
  3. Slow cook: Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-7 hours, until the broccoli is very tender.
  4. Blend until smooth: Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until completely smooth. If using a regular blender, let the soup cool for 10 minutes, then blend in batches, holding the lid down with a towel.
  5. Add the cheese and cream: Turn the slow cooker to warm. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard. Stir gently until the cheese melts completely, stirring occasionally.
  6. Taste and adjust: Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or nutmeg if desired.
  7. Serve immediately: Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, fresh chives, or cracked black pepper. Serve with crusty bread.

Notes

For best texture, shred your own cheese from a block; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the soup grainy. Add cheese off the heat to prevent graininess. The soup tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. If too thick, stir in extra broth or milk. If too thin, cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes to reduce.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot cheddar broccoli soup, slow cooker broccoli soup, creamy broccoli soup, easy broccoli cheddar soup, party soup, comfort food

Find it online: https://noshbelle.com/creamy-crockpot-cheddar-broccoli-soup-easy-20-min-prep-recipe/