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.

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.