There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, creamy bowl of Broccoli Cheese Soup, especially when it’s made effortlessly in the crock pot. This rich and cheesy soup is perfect for chilly days, busy weeknights, or whenever you need a cozy, satisfying meal. The best part? You can let your slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy the delicious aroma filling your home.
Creamy and Flavorful Crock Pot Broccoli Cheese Soup
This Broccoli Cheese Soup is a timeless classic that brings together the best of creamy, cheesy goodness with the wholesome taste of broccoli. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a velvety smooth soup with tender bites of broccoli in every spoonful.
Ingredients for Broccoli Cheese Soup in the Crock Pot
To make this rich and creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Essential Ingredients
- ½ cup chopped onion – Adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed before adding to the crock pot.
- 2 tablespoons butter – Used for sautéing the onions, enhancing their natural flavor.
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup – Acts as a creamy base that thickens the soup while adding a savory touch.
- 1½ cups milk – Helps create the perfect consistency, making the soup rich and smooth.
- 1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed – Provides the signature creamy, cheesy texture and flavor that makes this soup irresistible.
- 1 package (10 oz) frozen chopped broccoli – The star ingredient! It adds color, texture, and a nutritional boost to the soup.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Soup in the Crock Pot
This Crock Pot Broccoli Cheese Soup is incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few simple steps. Follow this method for a deliciously creamy soup every time.
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
In a small pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step enhances the flavor and ensures the onions blend smoothly into the soup.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot
Transfer the sautéed onions to the crock pot. Add the cream of chicken soup, milk, cubed Velveeta cheese, and frozen chopped broccoli. Stir everything together to evenly distribute the ingredients.
Step 3: Slow Cook on Low
Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally to help the cheese melt evenly and ensure the flavors blend perfectly.
Step 4: Stir and Check Consistency
Once the soup has cooked for a few hours, stir well to make sure everything is fully melted and combined. If the consistency is too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired texture.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the warm, cheesy broccoli soup into bowls and serve immediately. Pair it with crusty bread or garlic toast for a complete meal. Enjoy this creamy, comforting soup straight from the crock pot!
How Long to Cook Broccoli Cheese Soup in the Crock Pot
The cooking time for Broccoli Cheese Soup in a crock pot depends on the heat setting and the consistency you prefer. Since this recipe uses frozen broccoli and Velveeta cheese, it doesn’t take long to achieve the perfect creamy texture.
Cooking Time Guidelines:
- On Low: 3 to 4 hours (recommended for best flavor)
- On High: 1½ to 2 hours (for a quicker option)
Cooking on low heat allows the flavors to blend smoothly while preventing the cheese from overheating and becoming grainy. However, if you’re short on time, using the high setting can speed things up without compromising taste too much.
How to Store Leftover Broccoli Cheese Soup
If you have leftovers, don’t worry! This creamy soup stores well and can be reheated for another comforting meal.
Refrigerator Storage:
- Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Freezer Storage:
- Let the soup cool before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
- Store in the freezer for up to 1 month.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Note: Dairy-based soups may separate slightly when frozen and reheated. Stirring well while reheating will help restore the creamy texture.
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Broccoli Cheese Soup
Want to make this cheesy broccoli soup even better? Here are some expert tips to ensure the best results:
✅ Use Velveeta for Ultimate Creaminess – Velveeta cheese melts smoothly, making the soup extra creamy. If substituting with shredded cheese, add it gradually to prevent clumping.
✅ Don’t Overcook the Broccoli – Since the broccoli is frozen, it softens quickly. Cooking it too long can make it mushy. If you prefer a firmer texture, add the broccoli during the last hour of cooking.
✅ Adjust the Thickness – For a thicker soup, reduce the milk slightly. For a thinner consistency, add more milk or a splash of chicken broth before serving.
✅ Add Extra Flavor – For a stronger cheesy taste, mix in some shredded sharp cheddar cheese in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
✅ Garnish for Extra Texture – Top each bowl with crispy croutons, shredded cheese, or chopped green onions before serving for added crunch and flavor
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Broccoli Cheese Soup for the Crock Pot
- Total Time: 3-4 hours
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Crock Pot Broccoli Cheese Soup is creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting flavors. Made with simple ingredients like Velveeta cheese, cream of chicken soup, and frozen broccoli, this slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy days. Let the crock pot do the work while you enjoy a delicious homemade soup with minimal effort!
Ingredients
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1½ cups milk
- 1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 package (10 oz) frozen chopped broccoli
Instructions
- In a small pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Transfer the sautéed onions to the crock pot. Add cream of chicken soup, milk, cubed Velveeta cheese, and frozen chopped broccoli. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally to help the cheese melt evenly.
- Once the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy, stir well. Adjust the consistency by adding a little more milk if needed.
- Ladle into bowls and serve warm. Pair with crusty bread or garlic toast for the perfect meal!
Notes
- If using fresh broccoli, chop it into small florets and increase the cooking time slightly.
- For a thicker soup, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- To freeze, let the soup cool and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Use Fresh Broccoli Instead of Frozen?
Yes! Fresh broccoli works just as well in this recipe. Simply chop it into small florets before adding it to the crock pot. If using fresh broccoli, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly, as fresh broccoli takes longer to soften than frozen.
2. How Can I Make This Soup Thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you have a few options:
- Reduce the amount of milk slightly.
- Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Use heavy cream instead of milk for a richer, thicker texture.
3. Can I Substitute the Velveeta Cheese?
Yes, but keep in mind that Velveeta melts smoothly, which helps achieve the creamy texture of this soup. If you’d like to substitute it, use:
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (preferably sharp for better flavor).
- A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for a balanced taste.
- If using shredded cheese, stir it in gradually at the end of cooking to avoid clumping.
4. What Can I Serve with Broccoli Cheese Soup?
This cheesy, comforting soup pairs well with:
- Crusty bread or garlic toast – Perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Grilled cheese sandwiches – A classic pairing that makes for an extra indulgent meal.
- A simple green salad – Adds a fresh contrast to the richness of the soup.
- Baked potatoes – Serve the soup as a topping for baked potatoes for a hearty meal.