Description of this recipe
This creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup cooked in the Crock Pot is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that combines the hearty flavors of broccoli with the rich, creamy goodness of Velveeta cheese. Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup will warm you up from the inside out.
Why you will love this recipe
This Broccoli Cheese Soup is not only simple and fast to prepare, but it also requires minimal effort, allowing you to embrace the ease of slow cooking. Rich in flavor and nutrients, this dish is a perfect way to sneak in those greens. With its velvety texture and delightful cheese flavor, it’s a family favorite that is destined to become a staple in your household. Plus, it’s perfect as a standalone meal or paired with your favorite bread!
Introduction
When the colder months roll around, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to nourish the soul and comfort the mind. Broccoli Cheese Soup stands out as a winter classic, offering a delightful blend of flavors and nutrients. This particular recipe takes advantage of a slow cooker, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully over time, creating a luscious and creamy finish. With easy preparation and minimal cleanup, it’s ideal for the busy home cook who still wants to serve a hearty, wholesome meal. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that combines convenience with homemade goodness!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter or 2 tablespoons margarine
- 1 (10 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped broccoli
Preparation:
Step 1: Start by sautéing the chopped onions in a medium-sized skillet with the butter or margarine. Cook the onions over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes or until they are translucent and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. This step helps enhance the flavor of the onions, giving your soup a solid foundation.
Step 2: After the onions are nicely sautéed, transfer them to the Crock Pot. This will allow the slow cooking process to further develop the flavors.
Step 3: Next, add the can of cream of chicken soup directly into the Crock Pot. This soup acts as a creamy base and adds richness to the overall flavor.
Step 4: Pour in the milk, stirring gently to combine with the other ingredients. The milk adds a creamy texture that balances the thickness of the soup and ensures a harmonious blend with the other components.
Step 5: Now, it’s time to add the star of the show: the Velveeta cheese! Cube it into smaller pieces to facilitate even melting. Add the cubed cheese and the frozen chopped broccoli to the Crock Pot. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring that the broccoli and cheese are well incorporated.
Step 6: Cover the Crock Pot, set it to low, and let it cook for about 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally, if possible, to help the cheese melt evenly and blend into the soup for a creamy texture. Your kitchen will soon fill with the mouthwatering aroma of broccoli and cheese, tantalizing your taste buds.
COOKING Rating:
★★★★★
This recipe earns a top cooking rating for its ease of preparation, rich flavor, and culinary comfort factor.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Broccoli Cheese Soup with warm, crusty bread or buttery biscuits for dipping. A light salad on the side can round out your meal, making it wholesome and satisfying. For extra flair, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of freshly grated cheese or croutons on top.
Tips:
- Cheese Alternatives: While Velveeta provides a creamy texture and melts beautifully, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Add Proteins: For added protein, consider mixing in cooked and shredded chicken or ham during the last hour of cooking for a heartier soup.
- Make it Vegetarian: To adapt this recipe to be fully vegetarian, substitute the cream of chicken soup with a cream of mushroom or a vegetable cream soup.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot or microwave, adding a splash of milk if you find it’s too thick.
- Spices and Seasoning: Feel free to customize the flavor by adding spices like garlic powder, black pepper, or even a dash of nutmeg to enhance the taste further.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3-4 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
- Protein: 15g
- Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion
This Broccoli Cheese Soup for the Crock Pot is an effortless recipe that brings the comfort of homemade cooking to your table without the fuss. Its creamy texture, combined with the delightful flavors of cheese and broccoli, creates a nourishing and satisfying meal that you’ll want to return to again and again. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or enjoying a quiet night in, this soup is sure to please. Give it a try, and allow the richness of this dish to warm your heart on those chilly days!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh broccoli! Just chop it into small pieces and add it into the Crock Pot in the last hour of cooking to ensure it doesn’t turn mushy. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe, as it stands, is not gluten-free due to the cream of chicken soup. You can substitute it with a gluten-free cream soup to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals. - How can I make this soup spicier?
To add a kick to your soup, you can incorporate some chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce when mixing in the other ingredients. - Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container to freeze for up to three months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, and add a bit of milk if it’s too thick. - How do I make this soup dairy-free?
You can replace Velveeta with a dairy-free cheese alternative, use coconut milk or almond milk instead of regular milk, and substitute the cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free version or homemade plant-based soup.
Enjoy this easy and delicious Broccoli Cheese Soup cradled in the warm embrace of your Crock Pot!
