Description
This Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare. Packed with fresh broccoli, shredded carrots, and sharp cheddar cheese, it’s a perfect slow cooker recipe for a warm, satisfying meal. The soup is partly pureed for a smooth texture with delightful bites of tender vegetables, enriched by heavy cream and a touch of nutmeg. Ideal for cozy dinners, this soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or served in a bread bowl.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (roughly chopped)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups shredded carrots
Liquids and Dairy
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Thickening Agents
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Cheese
- 2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: In a large crockpot, add the broccoli florets, diced onion, minced garlic, shredded carrots, chicken or vegetable broth, salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg. Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours until the vegetables are very tender.
- Puree the Soup: Once the vegetables are cooked, use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, creating a creamy texture while leaving some vegetable chunks. Alternatively, carefully transfer half of the soup to a blender, puree until smooth, and return it to the crockpot.
- Add Cream and Thicken: Stir in the heavy cream and the cornstarch-water mixture. Increase the heat to high and cook for an additional 20–30 minutes until the soup slightly thickens.
- Incorporate Cheddar Cheese: Reduce the heat to low or warm, then gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and the soup is smooth. Serve the soup hot for optimal comfort and flavor.
Notes
- For a lighter alternative, substitute milk or half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Serve with crusty bread or in a bread bowl for an extra comforting meal.
