When the weather cools down or you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal, nothing beats the warmth of a creamy bowl of Broccoli Cheese Soup. This crockpot recipe is incredibly simple to make and perfect for busy days. The slow cooking process blends the flavors beautifully, creating a velvety soup packed with cheesy goodness and tender broccoli. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Why This Recipe is a Winner
- Minimal Effort: By using a crockpot, you can set it and forget it, freeing up your time for other tasks.
- Comfort Food Classic: This soup is rich, creamy, and packed with comforting flavors that make it perfect for chilly evenings.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the cheesy, velvety texture of this soup.
- Customizable: You can add your favorite ingredients or adjust the recipe to suit your dietary needs.
Ingredients Breakdown
This recipe uses just a handful of simple ingredients:
- Onion: Adds a subtle depth of flavor to the soup.
- Butter or Margarine: Used to sauté the onions, giving them a tender, flavorful base.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: Acts as a creamy, savory foundation for the soup.
- Milk: Enhances the soup’s creamy texture while balancing the richness of the cheese.
- Velveeta Cheese: The star of the recipe, Velveeta melts smoothly and gives the soup its cheesy, velvety consistency.
- Frozen Chopped Broccoli: Provides the soup with texture, nutrients, and its classic broccoli-cheese combination.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Onions
- Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter or margarine in a small skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ½ cup of chopped onions and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step enhances the onions’ natural sweetness and prevents them from being raw or overpowering in the soup.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
- Transfer the sautéed onions to your crockpot.
- Add the following:
- 1 (10-ounce) can of cream of chicken soup
- 1½ cups of milk
- 1 pound of Velveeta cheese, cubed for easy melting
- 1 (10-ounce) package of frozen chopped broccoli
- Stir the ingredients gently to combine.
3. Slow Cook to Perfection
- Set your crockpot to low and let the soup cook for 3–4 hours.
- Stir the soup occasionally to help the cheese melt evenly and prevent any sticking or burning at the edges.
4. Serve Warm
- Once the cooking time is complete, give the soup a good stir to ensure everything is well combined.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread, crackers, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Cheese Choice: Velveeta is used for its creamy melting properties, but you can substitute it with shredded cheddar or a combination of cheeses if you prefer a sharper flavor.
- Fresh vs. Frozen Broccoli: While frozen broccoli is convenient, you can use fresh broccoli. Chop it into small florets and blanch them before adding to the crockpot.
- Consistency: For a thicker soup, reduce the milk slightly or stir in a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Optional Additions:
- Add diced potatoes or carrots for extra heartiness.
- Sprinkle with crispy bacon bits or croutons for added texture and flavor.
Storage and Reheating
This soup is great for leftovers and can easily be stored:
- Refrigerator: Transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Note that the texture may change slightly due to the cheese and milk.
- Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup thickens too much.
Serving Suggestions
Broccoli Cheese Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways:
- As a Main Dish: Serve with crusty bread, garlic knots, or a warm baguette to soak up every drop.
- As a Side Dish: Pair with grilled chicken, a ham sandwich, or a hearty salad.
- Toppings: Add shredded cheese, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for an extra burst of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Quick Prep: With just 15 minutes of hands-on time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
- Comfort in a Bowl: The creamy, cheesy broth and tender broccoli make this soup the ultimate comfort food.
- Budget-Friendly: Using basic pantry staples and affordable ingredients, this recipe is easy on your wallet.
Nutritional Benefits
While this soup is indulgent, it also offers:
- Broccoli: Rich in vitamins C and K, as well as fiber.
- Milk: A good source of calcium and protein.
- Cheese: Adds protein and calcium, making this soup filling and satisfying.
Conclusion
This Broccoli Cheese Soup for the Crock Pot is the perfect recipe for those who love a comforting, cheesy dish with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or simply looking to warm up on a cold day, this soup has you covered. With its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and incredible flavor, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself making again and again. So grab your crockpot and give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!
