Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

This slow cooker broccoli cheddar cheese soup is a comforting and hearty dish that's perfect for a cosy night in. It's packed with fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, creating a creamy and flavorful soup that will melt in your mouth. Using a slow cooker makes this recipe an easy and convenient choice for any busy weeknight.

slow cooker broccoli cheddar cheese soup recipe

Photos of Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup Recipe

All ingredients used in this recipe are generally found in most households. However, evaporated milk might not be commonly available in some kitchens. This is a concentrated form of milk with about 60% of the water content removed, which gives the soup a rich and creamy texture. Also, if you're planning to serve the soup in bread bowls, you might need to pick those up from your local bakery or supermarket.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup

Yellow onion: This adds a sweet and slightly spicy flavor to the soup.

Garlic: Garlic gives an aromatic and flavorful kick.

Kosher salt: For seasoning.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the overall flavor.

Evaporated milk: Gives the soup a rich and creamy texture.

Vegetable stock: Forms the base of the soup.

Broccoli: The star ingredient that adds a unique taste and lots of nutrients.

Butter: Adds richness and creaminess to the soup.

All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup.

Cream cheese: Enhances the soup's creamy texture and adds a tangy flavor.

Sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a strong and tangy flavor that complements the broccoli.

Mini bread bowls: Optional, but they make for a fun and delicious way to serve the soup.

One reader, Alfonse Landers says:

This slow cooker broccoli cheddar cheese soup recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the convenience of the slow cooker makes it a breeze to prepare. The creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it a family favorite. I highly recommend trying it out for a cozy and delicious meal.

Alfonse Landers

Techniques Required for Making Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup

How to prepare the slow cooker: Set up the slow cooker and ensure it is clean and in good working condition.

How to chop the onion and garlic: Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic.

How to cook the soup in the slow cooker: Add the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on high for 2 hours or on low for 4 hours.

How to make the roux: Mash the flour and butter together to make a paste.

How to thicken the soup: Add the roux, cream cheese, and half the cheddar to the slow cooker and cook for an additional 30 minutes.

How to incorporate the cheese into the soup: Whisk thoroughly and add in the remaining cheddar cheese.

How to serve the soup: Serve the soup in mini bread bowls if desired.

How To Make Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup

Make cold days warmer with this hearty Broccoli Cheddar Cheese soup cooked in the slow-cooker for a more flavorful and creamier consistency.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 2 hours 30 minutes

Total: 2 hours 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1yellow onion,chopped
3clovesgarlic,minced
½tspkosher salt
¼tspblack pepper
24ozevaporated milk,(2 cans)
6cupsvegetable stock,or chicken stock
6cupsbroccoli,diced into ½-inch pieces
¼cupbutter
¼cupall-purpose flour
4ozcream cheese,(half a block)
12ozsharp cheddar cheese,cut into cubes
mini bread bowls,for serving, optional

Instructions

Add the onion, garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, evaporated milk, stock, and broccoli to the slow cooker.
Cook on High for 2 hours, or on Low for 4 hours.
In a small bowl, mash the flour and the butter together to make a paste.
Add in the butter and flour paste, cream cheese, and half the cheddar to the slow cooker.
Cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Whisk really thoroughly and add in the remaining cheddar cheese.
Whisk again and serve in a bread bowl, if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 866.34kcal
Fat: 63.60g
Saturated Fat: 37.14g
Trans Fat: 1.47g
Monounsaturated Fat: 16.68g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.59g
Carbohydrates: 38.69g
Fiber: 4.53g
Sugar: 22.11g
Protein: 39.10g
Cholesterol: 197.77mg
Sodium: 1169.00mg
Calcium: 1140.01mg
Potassium: 1136.08mg
Iron: 2.13mg
Vitamin A: 589.23µg
Vitamin C: 128.95mg

Technique Tip for Achieving the Perfect Consistency

When making this slow cooker broccoli cheddar cheese soup, it's important to remember that the cheddar cheese should be added in two stages. The first half is added to allow it to melt and incorporate into the soup, while the second half is added towards the end to ensure that there are some gooey, melty cheese bits in every spoonful. This technique enhances the texture and flavor of the soup. Also, don't forget to whisk thoroughly after each addition of cheese to prevent it from clumping together.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and measure all the ingredients the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-cut vegetables: Opt for pre-cut broccoli and onions to cut down on prep time.

Slow cooker liners: Consider using slow cooker liners for easy cleanup.

Double the recipe: Make a larger batch and freeze the extra portions for future meals.

Invest in a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly chop the vegetables for the soup.

Utilize pre-shredded cheese: Save time by using pre-shredded cheddar cheese for the recipe.

Multi-task: While the soup is cooking, use the time to prepare other dishes or complete other tasks in the kitchen.

Organize your workspace: Keep all the ingredients and utensils organized and within reach to streamline the cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup Recipe

yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onions have a slightly milder flavor compared to yellow onions, but they can still provide a good base for the soup.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: If fresh garlic is not available, garlic powder can be used as a substitute. Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of garlic.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt in the same quantity, providing a similar level of saltiness.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper, offering a slightly different flavor profile.
evaporated milk - Substitute with half-and-half: Half-and-half can be used as a substitute for evaporated milk, providing a creamy texture to the soup.
vegetable stock - Substitute with chicken stock: Chicken stock can be used as a substitute for vegetable stock, adding a rich flavor to the soup.
broccoli - Substitute with cauliflower: Cauliflower can be used as a substitute for broccoli, offering a similar texture and ability to absorb the flavors of the soup.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a substitute for butter to sauté the onions and garlic, providing a healthier alternative.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a thickening agent instead of all-purpose flour, providing a gluten-free option.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for cream cheese, adding a tangy creaminess to the soup.
sharp cheddar cheese - Substitute with Gruyère cheese: Gruyère cheese can be used as a substitute for sharp cheddar, offering a nutty flavor and smooth melting properties.

Best Way to Present Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup

Elevate the plating: When presenting the soup, ensure that the bread bowl is placed elegantly on the plate, with the soup overflowing slightly for a visually appealing presentation.
Garnish with finesse: Sprinkle a touch of finely chopped chives or parsley on top of the soup to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a small crouton or a delicate cheese crisp on top of the soup to provide a delightful crunch and elevate the overall dining experience.
Attention to detail: Wipe the edges of the bowl to ensure a clean presentation, and pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate for a polished and professional look.
Balance the composition: Aim for a harmonious balance of colors and textures on the plate, ensuring that the presentation is visually appealing and inviting to the diners.

Essential Tools for Making Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup in a Slow Cooker

Slow cooker: A slow cooker is a countertop cooking appliance that allows for long, slow cooking at low temperatures, making it perfect for soups, stews, and other dishes.
Small bowl: A small bowl is useful for mashing the flour and butter together to make a paste before adding it to the slow cooker.
Whisk: A whisk is essential for thoroughly mixing the ingredients in the slow cooker, ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency for the soup.
Knife: A knife is needed for chopping the onion and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping the vegetables and ensures that your countertops remain clean and undamaged.
Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are essential for accurately measuring out the ingredients, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors in the soup.
Ladle: A ladle is useful for serving the soup, allowing for easy portioning into bowls or bread bowls.

How To Store and Freeze Leftover Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup

Let the broccoli cheddar cheese soup cool completely before storing or freezing.
Transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container or a freezer-safe zip-top bag.
If using a container, make sure to leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
For storing in the refrigerator: Place the container or bag in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days.
For freezing: Place the container or bag in the freezer and store for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the refrigerated soup, transfer it to a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
To reheat the frozen soup, first, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Then, transfer the thawed soup to a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
If the soup appears too thick after reheating, add a little vegetable stock or milk to achieve the desired consistency.
Stir well before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed.

How To Reheat Leftover Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup

Reheat the soup in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure the soup doesn't burn or become grainy.
If you're short on time, you can reheat the broccoli cheddar soup in the microwave. Transfer the soup to a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it's heated through.
For a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or cream to the soup while reheating. This will help to restore the soup's original consistency and prevent it from becoming too thick.
If you find that the broccoli has become too soft for your liking after reheating, you can add some freshly steamed or roasted broccoli to the soup to enhance its texture and flavor.
To add a touch of freshness to your reheated soup, garnish it with some shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
If you've stored the soup in the freezer, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This will help the soup reheat more evenly and prevent it from becoming watery or grainy.

Random Fact About Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup

Broccoli cheddar cheese soup is a classic comfort food that originated in the United States. It is often served in a bread bowl, which adds a unique and delicious touch to the dish.

Is Making Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup at Home Economical?

The cost-effectiveness of this slow cooker broccoli cheddar cheese soup recipe is quite high. The ingredients, such as broccoli, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese, are relatively affordable and can be found in most households. The recipe yields a large quantity, making it suitable for a family of four. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $15, making it a budget-friendly option. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability, delicious taste, and ease of preparation.

Is This Broccoli Cheddar Soup Healthy or Unhealthy?

The slow cooker broccoli cheddar cheese soup recipe, while comforting and delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High in saturated fat due to the generous amounts of butter, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese
Significant sodium content from the cheese and added salt
Relatively low in fiber, as the broccoli is the only vegetable present
The bread bowls add extra calories and carbohydrates

However, the recipe does have some positive aspects, such as the inclusion of broccoli, which provides vitamins, minerals, and some fiber. The use of vegetable stock instead of chicken or beef stock also keeps the soup vegetarian-friendly.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of cheese and butter used, or opt for lower-fat versions
Increase the proportion of broccoli and add other vegetables like carrots or cauliflower for more fiber and nutrients
Use whole wheat flour for the butter and flour paste to increase the fiber content slightly
Replace some of the evaporated milk with low-fat milk or vegetable puree for a creamy texture with less fat
Serve the soup in smaller portions, accompanied by a side salad or whole grain bread instead of bread bowls

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a healthier version of this comforting soup while still satisfying your cravings for a rich and creamy dish.

Editor's Thoughts on This Slow Cooker Soup Recipe

The slow cooker broccoli cheddar cheese soup recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish. The use of evaporated milk and cream cheese adds a rich and creamy texture, while the sharp cheddar cheese provides a bold and tangy flavor. The addition of mini bread bowls offers a fun and unique way to serve the soup. Overall, this recipe is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a garlic parmesan crust.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory carrots glazed with honey and butter for a delicious side dish.

Balsamic Grilled Vegetables: Assorted vegetables grilled to perfection and drizzled with a balsamic glaze for a flavorful side dish.

Similar Slow Cooker Soup Recipes to Try

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This classic soup is a comforting blend of tomatoes, basil, and cream. It's perfect for a cozy night in.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Roasted broccoli is taken to the next level with a garlic parmesan crust. It's a delicious and healthy side dish for any meal.

Apple Crisp: This warm and comforting dessert is made with fresh apples, cinnamon, and a crispy oat topping. It's the perfect way to end a fall meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a delicious blend of cheeses, herbs, and breadcrumbs. They're the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: This creamy and indulgent dip is a crowd-pleaser, featuring a rich blend of spinach, artichokes, and gooey melted cheese. Serve it with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread for a comforting and satisfying start to your meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with warm, gooey chocolate from the center. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and richness.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm, comforting flavors of apple crisp, with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples topped with a crunchy oat and brown sugar crumble. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of caramel swirl ice cream for a delightful treat.

Why trust this Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a comforting and flavorful experience, using fresh broccoli and rich cheddar cheese. The slow cooker method ensures a thorough infusion of flavors, while the addition of cream cheese creates a creamy texture. The use of evaporated milk and vegetable stock enhances the soup's depth. The incorporation of a butter and flour paste adds a velvety consistency, and serving it in a bread bowl elevates the presentation. Trust in the combination of these quality ingredients to deliver a satisfying and delicious soup experience.

Share your thoughts on this Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheddar Cheese Soup Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section and let us know how it turned out for you.

FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the slow cooker broccoli cheddar cheese soup?

The slow cooker broccoli cheddar cheese soup takes about 2 hours on high or 4 hours on low to cook.

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh broccoli instead of frozen. Just make sure to chop it into small florets before adding it to the slow cooker.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste. Gouda, fontina, or even a blend of cheeses can work well in this recipe.

Can I make this soup in advance and reheat it later?

Yes, you can make the soup in advance and reheat it later. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.

Can I omit the cream cheese for a lighter version?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can omit the cream cheese. The soup will still have a creamy texture from the cheddar cheese and evaporated milk.