Ah, the comforting aroma of simmering broccoli cheese soup filling your home… it’s truly a taste of happiness! There’s just something about this creamy, cheesy concoction that warms the soul and brings everyone together. And the best part? It’s so easy to make, especially with the help of your trusty slow cooker. Imagine coming home to a hot, delicious meal after a long day - no stress, just pure comfort. So grab your ingredients, put on your favorite playlist, and let’s get this creamy goodness simmering!

Broccoli Cheese Soup: Slow Cooker Comfort Food

INGREDIENTS

This recipe is flexible, so feel free to adjust quantities to your taste. I like to use a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for a rich, tangy flavor, but you can use any type of cheese you prefer.

1 head broccoli, chopped into florets - This is the star of the show, so make sure to use fresh, vibrant broccoli!
1 large onion, chopped - The onion adds a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the broccoli and cheese.
4 cloves garlic, minced - A little garlic goes a long way! It adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the soup.
4 cups chicken broth - Choose a low-sodium broth to control the salt content.
1/2 cup heavy cream - For a lusciously creamy texture, use heavy cream.
1/2 cup milk - The milk adds a bit of tanginess and helps to thin out the soup.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - The cheddar provides a sharp and tangy flavor.
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese - The Monterey Jack adds a mild, buttery flavor.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley - The parsley brightens up the soup with a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste - Adjust the seasoning to your liking.

DIRECTIONS

This recipe is so easy, you’ll be enjoying a warm bowl of broccoli cheese soup in no time!

Step 1: In your slow cooker, combine the broccoli, onion, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, milk, and salt and pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 2: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the broccoli is tender.

Step 3: Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend. Be careful when blending hot soup!

Step 4: Stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Stir in the parsley and serve immediately.

Tips: For an even creamier soup, use a combination of heavy cream and milk. For a more flavorful soup, use a homemade chicken broth. If you want a thicker soup, add a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour to the soup before blending.

Serving Suggestions: Serve the broccoli cheese soup hot with crusty bread, a side of salad, or a dollop of sour cream.

Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Variations: Get creative with your broccoli cheese soup! Add other vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or cauliflower. Use different cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or Fontina. For a spicy kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

Enjoy!