Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheese Soup

INTRODUCTION

Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheese Soup is a comfort food classic. It brings together the rich flavors of cheese and fresh broccoli, creating a creamy and delicious dish. This soup is not just tasty but also simple to make. With a slow cooker, you can set it up and let it cook while you go about your day. When you’re ready, you have a warm and satisfying meal waiting for you.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love this Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheese Soup for many reasons. First, it is incredibly easy to prepare. You can throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. There is no need to watch over the stove or rush. The deep flavors meld together beautifully over time.

Second, it is a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even just a cozy night in. The creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it hard not to enjoy every bite.

Third, it is a great way to get kids and even adults to eat their vegetables. The broccoli is tender and delicious, and the cheese makes everything even better. Plus, it’s a wholesome meal that keeps you warm on chilly days.

Finally, this soup is versatile. You can pair it with various sides, and you can easily adjust the recipe to fit your taste. Adding different spices or ingredients can make it your own favorite dish.

HOW TO MAKE Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheese Soup

Making Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheese Soup is straightforward. With a few simple steps, you can create a tasty meal that everyone will love.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

Before you start cooking, gather the equipment you will need. Here is what you’ll require:

• A slow cooker
• A large skillet
• A whisk
• A cutting board
• A knife

Ingredients You’ll Need :

To make this delicious soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1/3 cup butter, sliced
• 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 (12 oz) cans evaporated milk
• 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 5 cups small diced broccoli florets
• 1/8 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 12 oz sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
• 2 oz parmesan cheese, freshly and finely shredded

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :

Here are the steps to make Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheese Soup:

1. Melt Butter: Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Sauté Onions: Add the chopped onions to the melted butter. Sauté them until they start to soften, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes.

3. Add Garlic and Flour: Once the onions are softened, add the minced garlic and flour. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

4. Pour in Evaporated Milk: While whisking, slowly pour in the evaporated milk. Make sure to whisk well to smooth out any lumps.

5. Thicken the Mixture: Keep cooking the mixture while stirring constantly until it starts to thicken.

6. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Pour this thickened mixture into a slow cooker.

7. Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the low-sodium chicken broth, diced broccoli florets, and dried thyme to the slow cooker.

8. Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low heat for about 5 to 6 hours.

9. Finish the Soup: Once the cooking time is complete, turn the heat to warm (or off). Stir in the heavy cream, then add the shredded cheddar and parmesan cheese. Mix well to blend everything together.

10. Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm and enjoy!

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HOW TO SERVE Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheese Soup

Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheese Soup is best served warm. You can pour it into bowls and garnish it with additional cheese or fresh herbs, if desired. This soup goes great with crusty bread or a side salad. You can also enjoy it with crackers for a crunchy complement.

STORAGE & FREEZING : Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheese Soup

If you have leftover soup, it stores well in the fridge. Make sure to let it cool before placing it in an airtight container. It can last up to 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.

For freezing, you can place the cooled soup in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top since the soup will expand as it freezes. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm it on the stove or in the microwave.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

You can serve Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheese Soup with various sides. Here are some ideas:

• Fresh, crusty bread for dipping
• Grilled cheese sandwiches to enjoy alongside
• A simple side salad with a light dressing
• Crackers for added crunch

You can also serve it as a starter before a meal or as a light meal on its own.

VARIATIONS

There are many ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste. You can try the following variations:

• Add Protein: Include diced chicken or cooked sausage for a heartier soup.
• Different Vegetables: Add carrots or cauliflower for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses, such as gouda or mozzarella, for new flavors.

FAQs

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1. Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli florets in this recipe. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for even cooking.

2. Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version by using plant-based butter, almond milk, and vegan cheese substitutes.

3. How can I make the soup thicker?
If you want a thicker soup, you can use more flour or add a cornstarch slurry (a mix of cornstarch and water) during the final cooking stage.

4. What should I do if the soup is too thick?
If the soup becomes too thick, you can add more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

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MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheese Soup

You can prep some of the ingredients ahead of time. Chop the vegetables and store them in the fridge. You can also make the entire soup a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just heat it up on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to serve. This way, you can have a comforting bowl of soup ready to go without much fuss.

Enjoy cooking and savoring this delicious Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheese Soup!

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