Looking for a comforting and nutritious meal? Try this easy broccoli & cheese soup slow cooker recipe! Packed with wholesome ingredients like broccoli, carrots, and creamy cheese, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Simply set it and forget it in the slow cooker for a delicious and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients:
- 5 cups chopped broccoli florets (about 16 ounces)
- 1 cup grated carrots (you can grate yourself or use pre-cut julienne carrots)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese (avoid fat-free varieties)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 2 1/2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 can (12 ounces) 2% evaporated milk
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated (1 block)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: 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.
- Cook in the Slow Cooker: Cover and cook on high for 2 hours or low for 4-6 hours, until the broccoli is tender.
- Blend the Soup: Remove the lid and stir in the evaporated milk. Using an immersion blender, puree about 3/4 of the soup until it is mostly smooth but still has a few chunks of broccoli remaining. Alternatively, you can puree the soup in batches in a food processor or blender.
- Season and Add Cheese: Stir in the salt, pepper, and grated cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Cover and cook on high until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is hot, about 5 additional minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with additional grated cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Serve alongside crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Why Broccoli & Cheese Soup Slow Cooker?
- Convenience: This slow cooker recipe requires minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal with little effort.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with broccoli, carrots, and reduced-fat dairy, this soup provides essential vitamins and minerals while still satisfying your taste buds.
- Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of creamy cheese and aromatic spices creates a rich and flavorful soup that will warm you up on even the chilliest days.
Broccoli & cheese soup slow cooker is a delicious and comforting meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this hearty soup is sure to be a hit with everyone. So why not give this recipe a try and treat yourself to a bowl of warmth and flavor?
FAQs:
- Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
- Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in this recipe. Simply thaw it before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Can I make this soup ahead of time and reheat it later?
- Absolutely! This soup reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- While sharp cheddar adds a delicious flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses such as Gruyere or Swiss for a different twist.
- Is this soup vegetarian-friendly?
- Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this soup vegetarian.
- Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
- Certainly! Feel free to customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables such as cauliflower, spinach, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.
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