Warm up your winter evenings with the comforting goodness of Slow Cooker Cheesy Broccoli Soup. This rich and creamy soup is loaded with tender broccoli florets, savory onions, and a blend of melted cheeses, creating a bowl of pure comfort that’s perfect for chilly nights. Whether you’re craving a satisfying weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this easy-to-make soup is sure to hit the spot. Join us as we explore the simple steps to creating this delicious dish, along with cooking tips, variations, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional for a little kick)
Instructions:
- Prepare Ingredients: If using fresh broccoli, wash and chop the florets into bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: In the slow cooker, combine the broccoli florets, chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken or vegetable broth, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Stir to combine.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or high heat for 2-3 hours, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Add Cream Cheese and Cheddar: About 30 minutes before serving, add the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese to the slow cooker. Stir until the cheeses are melted and fully incorporated into the soup.
- Blend (Optional): For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup directly in the slow cooker until desired consistency is reached. Alternatively, transfer a portion of the soup to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the slow cooker.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper if desired.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with additional shredded cheddar cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Texture Preference: For a chunkier soup, simply skip the blending step. If you prefer a smoother consistency, blend the soup until smooth.
- Extra Creaminess: Add a splash of heavy cream or milk for an extra creamy texture.
- Additional Flavors: Customize your soup by adding cooked bacon, diced ham, or a sprinkle of nutmeg for added depth of flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Substitute the onion with chopped leeks or shallots for a lower-carb option.
- Use full-fat cream cheese and cheddar cheese for a keto-friendly version of the soup.
- Omit the paprika or use a keto-friendly spice blend to season the soup.
Low-Carb Version:
- Reduce the amount of onion used in the recipe to lower the carb content.
- Use a combination of cream cheese and Greek yogurt to reduce the overall carb count while maintaining creaminess.
- Replace the cheddar cheese with a lower-fat cheese option or omit it altogether for a lighter version of the soup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? A: Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in this recipe as a convenient alternative to fresh broccoli. Simply add the frozen broccoli directly to the slow cooker without thawing.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time? A: Yes, this soup can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze leftover soup? A: While this soup can be frozen, the texture of the broccoli may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, transfer the cooled soup to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese in this soup? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as Gruyere, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for unique flavor variations.
Warm up from the inside out with a bowl of Slow Cooker Cheesy Broccoli Soup. With its creamy texture, vibrant flavor, and comforting aroma, this soup is a true crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether enjoyed as a comforting weeknight dinner or served as a starter at your next gathering, this easy-to-make soup is guaranteed to bring smiles all around.
Treat yourself to the ultimate comfort food experience with this deliciously satisfying soup. From its simple preparation to its rich and cheesy flavor, every spoonful is a taste of pure bliss. So grab your slow cooker and get ready to indulge in a bowl of creamy goodness!
Embrace the warmth and comfort of home with each spoonful of this hearty and delicious soup. Your taste buds will thank you!
