Broccoli & Cheese Soup Slow Cooker

Embark on a culinary journey filled with warmth and comfort as we explore the delightful flavors of Broccoli & Cheese Soup prepared in a slow cooker. This creamy and satisfying soup is a perfect blend of nutritious broccoli, sweet carrots, aromatic onions, and decadent cheddar cheese, all simmered to perfection in a rich and flavorful broth. Whether you’re seeking a cozy meal for a chilly evening or a nourishing dish to feed the family, this recipe promises to deliver on both taste and convenience. So, let’s dive into the soothing embrace of slow-cooked goodness and savor every spoonful of this hearty soup.

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 (do not use fat-free)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• 2 1/2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 can 2% evaporated milk (12 ounces)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated (1 block)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Vegetables: Place the broccoli, carrots, onion, and garlic in the bottom of a 5-to-6-quart slow cooker.
2. Add Seasonings and Broth: Top the vegetables with cream cheese, dried oregano, freshly grated nutmeg, and chicken broth. Stir to evenly distribute the ingredients.
3. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on high for 2 hours or low for 4-6 hours, until the broccoli is tender.
4. Incorporate Evaporated Milk: Remove the lid and stir in the evaporated milk.
5. Puree Soup: 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, puree the soup in batches in a food processor or blender.
6. Season and Add Cheese: Stir in salt, pepper, and grated cheddar cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
7. Finish Cooking: Recover the soup and let it cook on low for 10 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is fully melted.
8. Serve: Serve the soup warm, garnished with additional grated cheese if desired.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
   • Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in this recipe. Simply thaw it before adding it to the slow cooker.
2. Can I use other types of cheese?
   • While sharp cheddar cheese adds a delicious flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses such as Gruyere, Swiss, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique taste.
3. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
   • Absolutely! You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the bacon for a vegetarian version of this soup.
4. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
   • Yes, you can freeze leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
6. Can I add other vegetables?
   • Certainly! Feel free to add other vegetables such as cauliflower, spinach, or potatoes to customize the soup to your liking.
7. Can I use whole milk instead of evaporated milk?
   • While evaporated milk adds richness to the soup, you can substitute it with whole milk if desired. However, the soup may not be as creamy.
8. Can I skip the pureeing step?
   • If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip the pureeing step altogether and enjoy the vegetables in their natural form.

Tips:

1. Add cheese gradually: Gradually stir in the grated cheese to ensure it melts evenly into the soup without clumping.
2. Adjust seasoning to taste: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and other seasonings according to your preference.
3. Use freshly grated nutmeg: Freshly grated nutmeg adds a more intense flavor compared to pre-ground nutmeg. Grate it directly into the soup for the best results.
4. Garnish with fresh herbs: Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.

With these helpful tips and answers to common questions, you’re all set to create a delicious batch of Slow Cooker Broccoli & Cheese Soup that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy the creamy goodness and share this comforting dish with your loved ones for a memorable mealtime experience.

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