Broccoli & Cheese Soup Slow Cooker

Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Broccoli & Cheese Soup Slow Cooker recipe! This easy-to-make soup is packed with wholesome ingredients like fresh broccoli, carrots, and creamy cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser for the whole family.

Ingredients:

• 5 cups chopped broccoli florets (about 16 ounces)
• 1 cup grated carrots (you can grate yourself or use bagged, pre-cut julienne carrots)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese (do not use fat-free)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• 2 1/2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 can 2% evaporated milk (12 ounces)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated* (1 block)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by chopping the broccoli florets, grating the carrots, dicing the onion, and mincing the garlic.
2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Place the broccoli, carrots, onion, and garlic in the bottom of a 5-to-6-quart slow cooker. Add the cream cheese, oregano, nutmeg, and chicken broth. Stir to evenly distribute the ingredients.
3. Cooking Process: Cover and cook on high for 2 hours or low for 4-6 hours, until the broccoli is tender.
4. Blend the Soup: Once the cooking time is complete, remove the lid and stir in the evaporated milk. Use an immersion blender to puree about 3/4 of the soup, leaving some chunks of broccoli for texture. Alternatively, you can puree the soup in batches in a food processor or blender.
5. Season and Serve: Stir in the salt, pepper, and grated cheddar cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Cook on high until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is hot, about 5 additional minutes. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy goodness!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

• Yes, frozen broccoli can be substituted for fresh. Just be sure to thaw it before adding it to the slow cooker.

Is it necessary to use reduced-fat cream cheese?

• While you can use full-fat cream cheese if you prefer, using reduced-fat cream cheese helps keep the soup lighter without sacrificing flavor.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

• Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze leftover soup?

• Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

What can I serve with Broccoli & Cheese Soup?

• This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or a simple sandwich for a complete and satisfying meal.