Broccoli Cheese Soup for the Crock Pot

There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup on a chilly day, and this Broccoli Cheese Soup for the Crock Pot is the perfect way to satisfy that craving. Rich, creamy, and loaded with cheesy goodness, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s incredibly easy to make.

Just toss the ingredients into your Crock Pot, and let it do all the work while you go about your day. Whether you’re looking for a hearty lunch, a cozy dinner, or a delicious starter, this soup has you covered.

Ingredients to Prepare

For the Soup:

• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
  Adds a mild, sweet flavor to the soup, providing a base that enhances the other ingredients.
• 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
  Used to sauté the onions, adding richness and depth to the flavor.
• 1 (10-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
  Acts as a creamy base for the soup, adding both flavor and texture.
• 1 1/2 cups milk
  Provides the liquid needed to create a smooth, creamy consistency.
• 1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed
  The key ingredient that gives the soup its signature cheesy flavor and creamy texture.
• 1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped broccoli
  Adds a nutritious vegetable component, giving the soup its classic broccoli-cheese flavor combination.

learn more: Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Soup for the Crock Pot

Step 1: Sauté the Onion

1. Melt the Butter or Margarine:
   In a small skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter or margarine over medium heat. The butter or margarine provides a rich base that enhances the flavor of the sautéed onions.
2. Sauté the Onion:
   Add 1/2 cup of chopped onion to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step brings out the natural sweetness of the onion and adds depth to the soup.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot

3. Transfer to the Crock Pot:
   Once the onion is sautéed, transfer it to your Crock Pot. This will ensure that the onion’s flavor is evenly distributed throughout the soup.
4. Add the Soup Base:
   Pour in 1 (10-ounce) can of cream of chicken soup and 1 1/2 cups of milk. Stir to combine. The cream of chicken soup and milk create a rich, creamy base that perfectly complements the cheese and broccoli.
5. Add the Velveeta Cheese:
   Cube 1 lb of Velveeta cheese and add it to the Crock Pot. Velveeta melts smoothly, giving the soup its signature creamy, cheesy consistency.
6. Add the Broccoli:
   Add 1 (10-ounce) package of frozen chopped broccoli to the Crock Pot. The broccoli will cook down and blend beautifully with the cheese, creating a balanced flavor that’s both hearty and satisfying.

Step 3: Cook on Low

7. Stir and Cover:
   Stir all the ingredients together until well combined. This ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the soup.
8. Cook on Low:
   Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure the cheese melts evenly and the soup remains smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

9. Final Stir:
   Once the broccoli is tender and the cheese is fully melted, give the soup one final stir. This ensures that all the ingredients are well incorporated and the soup has a uniform texture.
10. Ladle and Serve:
    Ladle the creamy broccoli cheese soup into bowls and serve hot. This soup is perfect on its own, but you can also pair it with crusty bread for a more filling meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 310 kcal
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Protein: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6g

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Helpful Tips for Making Broccoli Cheese Soup

Choosing the Right Cheese:

• Velveeta Cheese:
  Velveeta is recommended for this recipe because it melts smoothly without separating, ensuring a creamy texture. If you prefer using real cheese, consider a sharp cheddar that has been grated, but note that it may not melt as smoothly as Velveeta.

Sautéing the Onions:

• Why It Matters:
  Sautéing the onions before adding them to the Crock Pot enhances their sweetness and adds depth to the soup. It’s a step that shouldn’t be skipped if you want a truly flavorful soup.

Stirring Occasionally:

• To Prevent Burning:
  While the soup cooks in the Crock Pot, stir it occasionally to prevent the cheese from sticking to the sides and burning. This will also ensure that the soup remains smooth and creamy.

Serving Suggestions for Broccoli Cheese Soup

As a Main Dish:

• With Crusty Bread:
  Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or a baguette for dipping. The bread’s crunch pairs perfectly with the soup’s creamy texture.

As a Starter:

• Before a Main Course:
  This soup makes an excellent starter for a larger meal. It’s rich and flavorful, yet light enough to leave room for the main course.

Toppings:

• Add a Little Extra:
  Top the soup with croutons, a sprinkle of extra cheese, or a dash of hot sauce for added flavor and texture.

Substitutions and Variations

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Cream of Chicken Soup:
  If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup. Both options will provide a similar creamy texture and flavor.
• Milk:
  You can use any type of milk for this recipe, including whole milk, 2%, or even a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Keep in mind that the fat content of the milk will affect the richness of the soup.
• Cheese:
  While Velveeta is ideal for its smooth melting properties, you can substitute it with sharp cheddar, Colby, or a blend of cheeses. Just be aware that the texture may vary slightly.

Flavor Variations:

• Add Bacon:
  For a smoky flavor, add cooked and crumbled bacon to the soup just before serving. It adds a delicious contrast to the creamy soup.
• Spice It Up:
  If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the soup for a spicy kick.
• Add Vegetables:
  For a heartier soup, consider adding other vegetables like diced potatoes, carrots, or cauliflower. These additions will make the soup more filling and add extra nutrients.
• learn more: Beef and Barley Soup Recipe

Storage and Leftovers

Storing Leftovers:

• Refrigeration:
  Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the soup even more delicious the next day.
• Freezing:
  This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Reheating:

• Stovetop Method:
  Reheat the soup in a pot over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cheese from separating. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little milk or broth to reach the desired consistency.
• Microwave Method:
  For a quicker option, reheat individual portions in the microwave. Heat on medium power, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh broccoli in place of frozen. Simply chop the fresh broccoli into small pieces and follow the same instructions. Keep in mind that fresh broccoli may require a slightly longer cooking time to become tender.

Can I make this soup without a Crock Pot?

Absolutely! You can make this soup on the stovetop. Simply sauté the onions in a large pot, then add the remaining ingredients and simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until the soup is creamy and the broccoli is tender.

What can I use instead of Velveeta cheese?

If you prefer not to use Velveeta, you can substitute with a blend of cheddar cheese and cream cheese. The cream cheese helps achieve a smoother texture, but the soup may not be as creamy as with Velveeta.

Can I add meat to this soup?

Yes, adding cooked chicken or ham can make this soup even heartier. Stir in the cooked meat during the last hour of cooking to warm it through.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheese Soup for the Crock Pot is a comforting, creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a cold day or an easy dinner to feed the family, this soup is sure to satisfy. The combination of Velveeta cheese and broccoli creates a rich, smooth texture that’s simply irresistible. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this soup is a must-try for any home cook.

Enjoy this deliciously creamy soup with your favorite toppings, and savor the warmth and comfort it brings!

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