Creamy and Comforting Crockpot Broccoli Soup Recipe

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Creamy and Comforting Crockpot Broccoli Soup Recipe

Broccoli soup is a timeless favorite that brings warmth and comfort to any meal, especially during colder months. When made in a crockpot, this dish becomes even easier to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a rich, creamy, and hearty soup without spending much time in the kitchen. This Crockpot Broccoli Soup recipe combines the wholesome flavors of fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and creamy ingredients for a delightful and satisfying dish. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious lunch, a comforting dinner, or a simple side dish, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Essential Ingredients for Crockpot Broccoli Soup

To create a rich, velvety soup that tastes as good as it smells, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 cup grated carrots: Adds a slight sweetness and a pop of color to the soup.
  • 5 cups broccoli florets: The star ingredient that brings a fresh and earthy flavor to the dish.
  • 1 small onion, diced well: A finely diced onion adds depth of flavor and a savory base.
  • 3 cloves of garlic, freshly minced: Garlic provides a fragrant and aromatic element to the soup.
  • 1 tsp oregano: A perfect herb to complement the earthiness of broccoli and enhance the overall flavor.
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg: Adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the soup’s flavor.
  • ½ tsp salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the taste of the other ingredients.
  • ¼ tsp black pepper: Brings a bit of heat to the soup, elevating its flavor.
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth (low sodium): The base of the soup, providing liquid and savory depth.
  • 1 can evaporated milk: This ingredient adds creaminess and a slightly sweet flavor that works beautifully with the broccoli.
  • 2 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese: Helps create a smooth and rich texture in the soup.
  • 8 ounces freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese: The key to making this soup extra cheesy and indulgent.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

For the best results, it’s essential to use the right ingredients:

  • Fresh broccoli florets: For optimal flavor and texture, fresh broccoli is preferred over frozen. The fresh florets offer a crisp, vibrant taste that makes the soup more enjoyable.
  • Reduced-fat cream cheese: While full-fat cream cheese would work, using reduced-fat cream cheese ensures the soup remains indulgent without the added calories. Do not use fat-free cream cheese, as it may affect the texture of the soup.
  • Sharp cheddar cheese: Opt for freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts better and has a richer flavor that enhances the soup’s overall taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Crockpot Broccoli Soup

The beauty of making Crockpot Broccoli Soup is the ease and convenience it offers. With minimal prep time and slow cooking, you can have a creamy, flavorful soup ready to enjoy in no time.

1. Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by preparing all the vegetables. Grate 1 cup of carrots and set them aside. Dice 1 small onion finely and mince 3 cloves of garlic. You want to ensure the onion and garlic are finely chopped to allow them to blend seamlessly into the soup and release their flavors as they cook.

2. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Place the grated carrots, broccoli florets, diced onion, and minced garlic into the crockpot. Stir them together to mix. These vegetables will cook slowly, allowing their flavors to meld together perfectly.

3. Add the Seasonings

Sprinkle in oregano, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. These seasonings add depth and complexity to the soup, balancing out the sweetness of the carrots and the earthiness of the broccoli.

4. Pour in the Liquid

Add 2 ½ cups of chicken broth (low sodium) to the crockpot. The broth serves as the base for the soup, giving it a savory flavor. Then, pour in 1 can of evaporated milk for creaminess. This ingredient gives the soup a smooth, velvety texture that enhances the overall eating experience.

5. Add the Cream Cheese and Cheese

Cube 2 ounces of reduced-fat cream cheese and add it to the crockpot. Cream cheese contributes to the soup’s luxurious texture and creaminess. Then, sprinkle in 8 ounces of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese. The cheese will melt perfectly, creating a rich and indulgent broth that coats the vegetables.

6. Cook the Soup

Cover the crockpot with its lid and set the temperature to low. Let the soup cook for 4–6 hours. During this time, the flavors will meld together, and the vegetables will become tender. Stir occasionally to ensure the ingredients are well combined, and the cheese has fully melted into the broth.

7. Blend the Soup for a Smooth Texture (Optional)

Once the soup has cooked, you have the option to blend it for a smoother, creamier texture. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the crockpot or transfer the soup to a countertop blender. For a chunkier texture, you can skip the blending step or pulse the soup briefly for a little more texture.

8. Final Taste Adjustment

After blending, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or oregano if desired. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or water to achieve your preferred consistency.

9. Serve and Enjoy

Once the soup reaches the desired texture and flavor, it’s ready to be served! Ladle the creamy, cheesy broccoli soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired. Serve with a slice of crusty bread or crackers on the side to complete the meal.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Broccoli Soup

Creamy and Indulgent Flavor

The combination of cream cheese and sharp cheddar cheese results in a luxuriously creamy and cheesy texture, making each spoonful satisfying and rich. The natural sweetness of the carrots complements the earthiness of the broccoli, while the spices like oregano and nutmeg elevate the soup to the next level.

Easy and Hands-Off Preparation

One of the best things about using a crockpot is the hands-off cooking process. Simply prep the ingredients, toss them into the crockpot, and let it work its magic. The long cooking time ensures that the flavors develop beautifully without requiring constant attention.

Healthier Yet Delicious

While this soup is undeniably creamy and indulgent, it also offers several health benefits. Broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Carrots are a great source of beta-carotene and other essential nutrients, while the low-sodium chicken broth ensures the soup remains healthy without too much added salt.

Versatile and Customizable

Feel free to make adjustments based on your preferences. You can swap the cheddar cheese for Swiss or Gruyere for a different flavor profile. If you’re looking for a vegan version, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use plant-based cream cheese and cheese alternatives.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Broccoli Soup recipe is the epitome of comfort food. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly in the slow cooker. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty lunch or a light dinner, this soup will leave you feeling satisfied and cozy. Enjoy it with a slice of bread or a side salad for a complete and delicious meal.

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