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creamy crockpot cheddar broccoli soup - featured image

Creamy Crockpot Cheddar Broccoli Soup – Easy Party Side Recipe


  • Author: Sarah Wasserman
  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (on LOW) or 2 hours 15 minutes (on HIGH)
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

This creamy crockpot cheddar broccoli soup is a crowd-pleasing party side that tastes like it simmered all day but requires minimal effort. With a velvety texture and sharp cheddar flavor, it’s perfect for potlucks, game nights, or any gathering.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 medium heads)
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Sauté the aromatics: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the 4 tablespoons of butter. Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Make the roux: Sprinkle the 1/4 cup of flour over the onion mixture and stir constantly for about 2 minutes until the mixture forms a thick paste and smells slightly nutty.
  3. Add the broth slowly: Pour in about 1 cup of the broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Once smooth, add the remaining broth and whisk until combined. Bring to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat.
  4. Transfer to the crockpot: Pour the broth mixture into your slow cooker. Add the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir until well combined.
  5. Add the broccoli: Gently stir in the broccoli florets, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the liquid.
  6. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or on HIGH for 2 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
  7. Blend if desired: For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving about half chunky for texture. If using a regular blender, work in batches and be careful with hot liquid.
  8. Taste and adjust: Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
  9. Keep warm for serving: Switch the crockpot to the WARM setting until ready to serve.

Notes

Shred your own cheese from a block for the smoothest texture. Add cheese at the end of cooking to prevent it from breaking. For a thicker soup, use a cornstarch slurry. This soup tastes even better the next day.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours (on LOW) or 2 hours (on HIGH)
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1 c
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 5
  • Sodium: 600
  • Fat: 30
  • Saturated Fat: 18
  • Carbohydrates: 20
  • Fiber: 3
  • Protein: 16

Keywords: crockpot cheddar broccoli soup, creamy broccoli soup, party side dish, slow cooker soup, cheddar broccoli soup