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Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheese Soup

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes compare to the creamy, cheesy goodness of Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheese Soup. It’s the ultimate bowl of warmth — thick, velvety, and packed with tender broccoli florets and melted cheese. This soup isn’t just delicious; it’s also a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults. The slow cooker makes this recipe effortless. Instead of standing over a pot and constantly stirring, you let your crockpot do all the work. Over several hours, the vegetables soften, the flavors blend beautifully, and the cheese melts into a smooth, savory base. The result? A soup that tastes like it came from a restaurant but was made with minimal effort at home. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this broccoli cheese soup is hearty enough to serve as a main dish, especially when paired with crusty bread or a simple salad.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Vegetables
  • 4 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 medium carrots shredded or diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
Broth & Dairy
  • 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth for vegetarian option
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups half-and-half or heavy cream for extra richness
Cheese
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
Seasonings
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika optional, for flavor
  • Pinch of nutmeg optional, for depth

Equipment

  • Here’s what you’ll need to make this soup at home:
  • Slow cooker (crockpot)
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or ladle
  • Whisk (for blending milk and flour)
  • Small skillet (optional, for making the roux)
  • Soup bowls for serving

Method
 

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
  1. Chop broccoli into small florets.
  2. Dice onion, shred carrots, and mince garlic.
Step 2: Build the Base
  1. In the slow cooker, add broccoli, onion, carrots, garlic, and chicken broth.
  2. Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, and nutmeg.
Step 3: Slow Cook
  1. Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Make a Roux (Optional but Recommended)
  1. In a small skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in flour until smooth and golden, about 1–2 minutes.
  3. Slowly whisk in milk until thickened.
  4. Add this mixture to the slow cooker, stirring well.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
  1. Stir in half-and-half and cheddar cheese.
  2. Mix until cheese is melted and soup is creamy.
  3. Add Parmesan for extra richness.
Step 6: Adjust and Serve
  1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  2. Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra cheese or fresh parsley.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Not ideal because dairy-based soups may separate, but you can freeze before adding cheese and cream.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of milk or broth if soup is too thick.
🥄 Variations
Extra Veggie: Add cauliflower, zucchini, or spinach.
Protein Boost: Stir in shredded chicken or cooked ham (for non-restricted diets).
Spicy Twist: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes.
Healthier Version: Use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese.
Thicker Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup before adding cheese.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, it works just as well. No need to thaw before adding.
2. Do I have to make the roux?
No, but it helps thicken the soup and gives it a silky texture.
3. What cheese is best for broccoli cheese soup?
Sharp cheddar gives the strongest flavor. Always shred your own cheese for best melting.
4. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, just swap chicken broth for vegetable broth.
5. How do I avoid grainy cheese soup?
Add cheese gradually and stir constantly over low heat. Don’t boil after adding cheese.
6. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.
7. Can I use milk only instead of cream?
Yes, but the soup will be less creamy. You can thicken it more with flour.
8. Can I add potatoes?
Yes, diced potatoes will make it even heartier.
9. Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Not once the cheese is added — freeze the base first, then add cream and cheese when reheating.
10. What side dishes pair best with it?
Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh garden salad.
🏁 Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheese Soup is everything you want in a comfort meal: creamy, cheesy, and satisfying. By letting the crockpot do the work, you save time while still creating a dish that feels homemade and indulgent.
It’s a soup that works for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or even as part of a holiday spread. Serve it with bread, salad, or simply enjoy a big steaming bowl on its own — either way, it’s bound to be a family favorite.