When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of Broccoli Cheese Soup. This creamy and cheesy soup, loaded with tender broccoli, is made even easier with the help of a Crock-Pot. Perfect for a cozy day at home, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Prep the Broccoli:
- Start by adding the broccoli florets and chopped onion to your Crock-Pot.
- Add the Broth:
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth over the broccoli and onions. Stir everything together to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Cook on Low:
- Cover the Crock-Pot with its lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours. This slow cooking process allows the broccoli to become tender and the flavors to develop.
- Make the Cheese Mixture:
- About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, prepare the cheese mixture.
- In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux, which will help thicken the soup.
- Slowly whisk in the heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it’s fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine:
- Pour the cheese mixture into the Crock-Pot with the cooked broccoli and broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Final Cook:
- Allow the soup to cook on low for an additional 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Before serving, taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Time and Nutrition:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
Tips for the Perfect Broccoli Cheese Soup:
- Extra Flavor: For an added depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese mixture. Nutmeg complements the richness of the cheese and adds a subtle warmth to the soup.
- Serving Suggestion: This soup pairs perfectly with a side of crusty bread, which is great for dipping into the creamy soup. It also makes the meal more filling and satisfying.