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Easy Crockpot Creamy Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe

Easy Crockpot Creamy Cheddar Broccoli Soup - featured image

This lightened-up creamy cheddar broccoli soup is a comforting, velvety, and cheesy crockpot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Made with simple ingredients and a smart blend of lower-fat dairy and pureed vegetables, it delivers all the flavor without the heavy feeling.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 cups 2% milk
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli, chopped into small florets
  • 1 medium carrot, grated
  • 8 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large 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 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to a 6-quart crockpot. Add the broth, milk, broccoli florets, and grated carrot. Stir to combine.
  3. Cover and cook on High for 3-4 hours or on Low for 6-7 hours, until the broccoli is fork-tender.
  4. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the crockpot until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, let the soup cool for 10 minutes, then blend in batches in a regular blender.
  5. Return the blended soup to the crockpot (if using a regular blender). Turn the heat to Low or Warm. Add the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring gently until each addition is completely melted.
  6. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using). Stir and adjust seasonings to taste. Serve hot, with extra shredded cheese on top if desired.

Notes

Grate your own cheese from a block for the smoothest melt. Avoid boiling the milk to prevent curdling. Add cheese when soup is on Warm or Low, not boiling. For a chunkier soup, only blend half. Season at the end to avoid over-salting. The soup thickens upon cooling; add a splash of milk or broth when reheating.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot, slow cooker, cheddar broccoli soup, creamy soup, lightened-up, comfort food, easy soup recipe