Creamy Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheddar (Print Version)
Rich and comforting slow cooker soup loaded with tender broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese.
# Recipe Ingredients:
→ Fresh Vegetables
01 - 5 cups fresh broccoli florets, approximately 2 large heads
02 - 1 medium onion, diced
03 - 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
04 - 2 stalks celery, diced
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
→ Liquids & Dairy
06 - 4 cups vegetable broth, low sodium preferred
07 - 2 cups half-and-half cream, or whole milk for lighter version
08 - 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
09 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
→ Pantry Staples
10 - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
11 - 1 teaspoon salt
12 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
13 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, optional
14 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, optional
# Directions:
01 - Combine broccoli florets, diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic in the slow cooker. Pour vegetable broth over the vegetables, ensuring they are mostly submerged.
02 - Cover and cook on low heat for 4 hours until vegetables are completely tender and easily pierced with a fork. The broth should be flavorful and slightly reduced.
03 - Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly until mixture bubbles and develops a light golden color without browning.
04 - Gradually pour half-and-half into the roux while whisking continuously. Continue whisking for 3 to 4 minutes until mixture is completely smooth and thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.
05 - Pour the cream mixture into the slow cooker and stir to incorporate. Use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, leaving some texture for body, or blend completely for a velvety smooth consistency.
06 - Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and nutmeg. Continue stirring until cheese is fully melted and soup becomes rich and creamy.
07 - Taste the soup and adjust salt or pepper as needed. Serve piping hot in bowls, garnished with additional shredded cheese alongside crusty bread or crackers.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It transforms ordinary broccoli into something luxurious without needing fancy techniques or constant attention
- The slow cooker does almost all the work, leaving your kitchen smelling wonderful all day
02 -
- Temper the half-and-half mixture with a small amount of hot broth before adding it to the slow cooker to prevent any potential separation
- Shred your own cheese from blocks rather than using pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that can make the soup grainy
03 -
- If the soup seems too thick after blending, add more warm broth a half cup at a time until you reach the perfect consistency
- Grate the cheese while the soup cooks so it's ready to add immediately when the base is thickened