Ingredients

To make this crockpot broccoli cheddar soup, you'll need the following ingredients: - 4 cups of broccoli florets - 1 onion, diced - 3 cloves of garlic, minced - 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth - 1 cup of heavy cream - 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese - 1 teaspoon of dried thyme - Salt and pepper to taste Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your preferences and the number of servings you want to make.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare the crockpot broccoli cheddar soup: 1. In a crockpot, combine the broccoli florets, diced onion, minced garlic, and vegetable or chicken broth. 2. Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours, until the broccoli is tender. 3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or transfer it to a blender and blend in batches. 4. Return the soup to the crockpot (if using a blender) and stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. 5. Cover the crockpot again and cook on low heat for an additional 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through. 6. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. 7. Serve the crockpot broccoli cheddar soup hot and garnish with additional shredded cheddar cheese, if desired.

Tips for Serving

Here are some tips to enhance your crockpot broccoli cheddar soup experience: - Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. - Top the soup with crumbled bacon or chopped green onions for added flavor and texture. - For a heartier meal, add cooked diced chicken or ham to the soup. - If you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain the soup after blending to remove any remaining chunks. - Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Health Benefits of Broccoli

Broccoli is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here are some health benefits of including broccoli in your diet: - Rich in vitamins and minerals: Broccoli is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin A, and folate. It also contains minerals like potassium and iron. - High in fiber: Broccoli is high in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy digestive system. - Antioxidant properties: Broccoli contains antioxidants that help protect the body against oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. - Supports immune health: The vitamin C in broccoli helps boost the immune system and promotes overall health. - May have anti-inflammatory effects: Some studies suggest that the compounds found in broccoli may have anti-inflammatory properties. By incorporating broccoli into recipes like this crockpot broccoli cheddar soup, you can enjoy its many health benefits.

Variations and Substitutions

While this crockpot broccoli cheddar soup recipe is delicious as is, you can also make some variations or substitutions to suit your taste: - Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like cauliflower or carrots to the soup for added flavor and nutrition. - Use different cheeses: If you're not a fan of cheddar cheese, you can substitute it with other types of cheese such as Gruyere or Swiss. - Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this soup vegetarian-friendly. - Make it gluten-free: Ensure that all the ingredients you use, including the brothand spices, are gluten-free to make this crockpot broccoli cheddar soup recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies. - Add spices and herbs: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor of the soup. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or a sprinkle of fresh parsley can add a delightful twist. With these variations and substitutions, you can create a crockpot broccoli cheddar soup that suits your preferences and dietary needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this crockpot broccoli cheddar soup recipe is a fantastic choice for a comforting and delicious meal. With its creamy texture, rich cheesy flavor, and the goodness of fresh broccoli, it's a soup that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Whether you're cooking for yourself or a crowd, this easy slow cooker recipe is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and enjoy a bowl of homemade goodness!