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Creamy Crockpot Cheddar Broccoli Soup (Easy & Cozy)

crockpot cheddar broccoli soup - featured image

This crockpot cheddar broccoli soup is creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender broccoli. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, making it a set-it-and-forget-it meal that’s perfect for cozy season.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets and chopped stems
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional garnishes: extra shredded cheddar, cracked black pepper, olive oil, croutons

Instructions

  1. Sauté the aromatics: In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Scrape into the crockpot.
  2. Add the broccoli and broth: Add the chopped broccoli florets and stems to the crockpot. Pour in the vegetable broth. Stir.
  3. Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, until broccoli is fork-tender.
  4. Blend part of the soup: Using an immersion blender, pulse the soup 5-6 times to break up some broccoli but leave chunky bits. Alternatively, transfer half the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return to the pot.
  5. Make the cheese base: In a small bowl, whisk together the whole milk and all-purpose flour until smooth. Whisk in the Dijon mustard.
  6. Add the milk mixture and cheese: Pour the milk mixture into the crockpot and stir. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, stirring after each addition.
  7. Season and finish: Let the soup cook for another 10-15 minutes on low. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with desired garnishes.

Notes

Don’t skip sautéing the aromatics for best flavor. Shred your own cheese to avoid graininess. Blend gently to keep some texture. Add cheese when soup is on low or warm to prevent stringiness. Taste and adjust seasoning at the end.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot cheddar broccoli soup, slow cooker broccoli cheese soup, creamy broccoli soup, easy broccoli soup, vegetarian soup