Easy Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe for Cozy Comfort Meals
A comforting and easy-to-make crockpot broccoli cheddar soup that combines simple ingredients for a creamy, hearty meal perfect for chilly nights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 to 6 hours (low) or 2.5 to 3 hours (high)
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes (low) or 2 hours 40 minutes to 3 hours 10 minutes (high)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup, Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium recommended)
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Chop the broccoli into small florets, about 1 to 1.5 inches. If using frozen, measure directly.
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Set aside.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly until bubbly and lightly golden to make a roux.
- Add the roux to the slow cooker along with the broth, chopped onion, and garlic. Stir well to combine.
- Add the broccoli florets and stir gently to distribute evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2.5-3 hours until broccoli is tender but still holds texture.
- About 30 minutes before serving, use a hand blender to puree roughly half the soup in the crockpot to create a creamy base.
- Lower heat to warm or keep on low. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted, then add the half-and-half or heavy cream and stir to combine.
- Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and nutmeg if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Let the soup warm through for another 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting and texture. Add cheese gradually over low heat to avoid graininess. If soup is too thick, add broth or milk to adjust consistency. For dairy-free, substitute cheddar with vegan cheese and cream with coconut milk. Gluten-free flour can replace all-purpose flour.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1.5 cups (360
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 24
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 15
Keywords: broccoli cheddar soup, crockpot soup, slow cooker soup, comfort food, easy soup recipe, cheesy soup, broccoli soup