Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, few things beat a warm bowl of broccoli cheddar soup. This classic dish is not only delicious but also easy to make, especially when using a crockpot. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together perfectly, resulting in a creamy and satisfying soup that is perfect for any occasion. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to make a mouthwatering crockpot broccoli cheddar soup that will surely become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Before you start making your crockpot broccoli cheddar soup, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:
– 4 cups of chopped broccoli
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup of butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
To begin making your crockpot broccoli cheddar soup, follow these simple steps:
1. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
2. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to create a roux.
3. In your crockpot, combine the broccoli, chicken or vegetable broth, and the onion-garlic roux mixture.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the broccoli is tender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, allowing the cheese to melt into the soup.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious crockpot broccoli cheddar soup!
Variations
There are endless possibilities for customizing your crockpot broccoli cheddar soup:
– Add cooked and crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor.
– Substitute half of the cheddar cheese with Gruyere for a more complex taste.
– Stir in a dollop of sour cream before serving for added creaminess.
– Mix in some cooked diced potatoes for a heartier soup.
Tips
Here are some tips to help you make the perfect crockpot broccoli cheddar soup:
– Make sure to cut the broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
– For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup before adding the cheese.
– Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more or less broth based on your preference.
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
In conclusion, crockpot broccoli cheddar soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a bowl of creamy and flavorful soup that will warm you from the inside out. Whether you follow the classic recipe or customize it to your liking, this soup is sure to become a household favorite. So grab your crockpot and start cooking up a batch of this tasty soup today!
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in place of fresh broccoli. Just be sure to thaw it before adding it to the crockpot.
Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: While heavy cream will give the soup a richer flavor, you can substitute milk if you prefer a lighter option.
Q: How can I make this soup vegetarian?
A: Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure all other ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, you can freeze the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw and reheat it gently before serving.
Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup
A creamy and flavorful broccoli cheddar soup made in a crockpot, perfect for any occasion. This comforting dish is easy to make and a family favorite.
Ingredients
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4 cups chopped broccoli
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
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1 cup heavy cream
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1/4 cup all-purpose flour
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1/4 cup butter
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
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In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
-
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to create a roux.
-
In your crockpot, combine the broccoli, chicken or vegetable broth, and the onion-garlic roux mixture.
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Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the broccoli is tender.
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Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, allowing the cheese to melt into the soup.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve hot and enjoy your delicious crockpot broccoli cheddar soup!
