This recipe delivers a luxuriously creamy, cheesy broccoli cheddar soup, slow-cooked to perfection in your trusty crock-pot. Using Velveeta adds a uniquely smooth and melty texture that elevates this classic comfort food. Forget hours slaving over a stovetop – this recipe is all about effortless deliciousness. Let's dive in!
What Makes This Crock-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup Special?
This isn't your average broccoli cheddar soup. The magic lies in the combination of slow-cooking in a crock-pot, which intensifies the flavors, and the addition of Velveeta, which provides an unparalleled creamy texture. The result is a velvety smooth soup that's both comforting and surprisingly sophisticated. We'll also explore some variations later to tailor this recipe to your preferences.
Ingredients for Crock-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Velveeta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (16 ounce) package frozen broccoli florets
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 (10 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (16 ounce) package Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a subtle kick
- Optional: Fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions: Your Path to Creamy Soup Perfection
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Sauté Aromatics: Begin by sautéing the chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until softened. This step enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
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Combine Ingredients in Crock-Pot: Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to your crock-pot. Add the frozen broccoli florets, chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, cubed Velveeta cheese, milk (or cream), salt, pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Stir to combine everything thoroughly.
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Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the Velveeta cheese is completely melted and the broccoli is tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
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Blend (Optional): For an extra-smooth soup, use an immersion blender to partially or completely blend the soup to your desired consistency. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Remember to vent the lid to avoid pressure buildup.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh chives or parsley before serving. This soup is delicious on its own, or paired with crusty bread or crackers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If using fresh broccoli, chop it into bite-sized florets. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as fresh broccoli cooks faster than frozen. Start checking for doneness around the 4-hour mark on low.
What if I don't have cream of mushroom soup?
You can omit the cream of mushroom soup altogether, or substitute it with an equal amount of additional chicken broth and a tablespoon or two of cornstarch to thicken the soup. Alternatively, you could use a different condensed soup like cream of celery.
Can I make this soup spicier?
Certainly! Add more cayenne pepper to increase the heat, or include a pinch of red pepper flakes for a more intense spicy flavor. Some chopped jalapeños would also add a nice kick.
How do I store leftover soup?
Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I freeze this broccoli cheddar soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace for expansion. It will keep frozen for up to 3 months.
Tips for the Perfect Crock-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Don't overcook the broccoli: Overcooked broccoli can become mushy. Check for tenderness towards the end of the cooking time.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Seasoning can vary depending on your broth and cheese. Taste the soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Get creative with add-ins: Experiment with adding other vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or even bacon for extra flavor and texture.
- Make it a meal: Serve with grilled chicken or shrimp for a more substantial meal.
This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the ease and deliciousness of this creamy crock-pot broccoli cheddar soup with Velveeta!
