Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with tender broccoli and melty cheddar cheese. Made slowly in a crockpot, this soup develops deep, cozy flavors while requiring very little hands-on effort. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a warm, homemade meal waiting for you at the end of the day. Inspired by classic café-style broccoli cheddar soup, this slow cooker version delivers the same velvety texture and cheesy goodness with the convenience of set-it-and-forget-it cooking.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s easy, reliable, and incredibly comforting. The crockpot does all the work, and the result is a thick, creamy soup that tastes like it simmered all day—because it did! It’s also a great way to get vegetables into a meal that everyone, even picky eaters, will enjoy.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Rich, creamy, and full of flavor
• Minimal prep and hands-off cooking
• Family-friendly and comforting
• Perfect for chilly days or cozy dinners
• Tastes just like restaurant-style broccoli cheddar soup

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4–5 hours on LOW or 2–3 hours on HIGH
• Total Time: 4½–5½ hours
• Servings: 6
• Calories: ~350–400 calories per serving (approx.)
• Course: Soup / Main Course
• Cuisine: American / Comfort Food

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups shredded carrots
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
• 2½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)

Cooking Directions

1. Add to Crockpot: Place broccoli, onion, garlic, carrots, and broth into the slow cooker.
2. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until vegetables are tender.
3. Make Roux: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth and slightly thickened.
4. Combine: Pour the milk mixture into the crockpot and stir well.
5. Add Cheese: Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
6. Season: Season with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.
7. Blend (Optional): Use an immersion blender for a smoother texture, or leave chunky if preferred.
8. Serve: Ladle hot soup into bowls and enjoy.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

• Chop broccoli, onion, garlic, and carrots.
• Add vegetables and broth to the crockpot.
• Slow cook until vegetables are tender.
• Prepare butter–flour roux and whisk in milk.
• Stir milk mixture into crockpot.
• Add cheddar cheese slowly and stir until creamy.
• Blend if desired and adjust seasoning.
• Serve warm with bread or crackers.

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How to Serve

Serve Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup hot with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a warm bread bowl. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or sandwich for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

• Always shred cheese fresh to prevent grainy texture
• Add cheese gradually and stir continuously
• Use sharp cheddar for best flavor
• Avoid boiling after adding cheese
• Adjust thickness with extra milk or broth if needed

Variations (Detailed)

• Extra Creamy: Use heavy cream instead of milk
• Healthier Version: Use low-fat milk and reduce cheese slightly
• Spicy Cheddar Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes
• Loaded Broccoli Cheddar: Add cooked bacon bits or diced potatoes
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months (texture may slightly change due to dairy)
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring often

Special Equipment Needed

• Crockpot / slow cooker
• Cutting board and knife
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Immersion blender (optional)

Conclusion

Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting, creamy classic that’s incredibly easy to make and always satisfying. With tender broccoli, rich cheddar, and slow-cooked flavor, this soup is perfect for cozy nights, family dinners, or meal prep. Simple ingredients, big flavor, and minimal effort make this a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with tender broccoli and melty cheddar cheese. Made slowly in a crockpot, this soup develops deep, cozy flavors while requiring very little hands-on effort.

Author: Stella Parker Cuisine: American Course: Soups & Drinks

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Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 5 hrs Total Time 5 hrs 15 mins Difficulty: Beginner Servings: 6

Ingredients

Servings

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups shredded carrots
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
• 2 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)

Instructions

1. Add to Crockpot: Place broccoli, onion, garlic, carrots, and broth into the slow cooker.
2. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until vegetables are tender.
3. Make Roux: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth and slightly thickened.
4. Combine: Pour the milk mixture into the crockpot and stir well.
5. Add Cheese: Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
6. Season: Season with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.
7. Blend (Optional): Use an immersion blender for a smoother texture, or leave chunky if preferred.
8. Serve: Ladle hot soup into bowls and enjoy.

Keywords: Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup