Introduction
Nothing says comfort like a warm bowl of cheesy broccoli soup—especially when it’s been slow-cooked to perfection in your Crock Pot. This recipe blends fresh broccoli florets, savory onions and garlic, and a rich trio of cheeses into one silky, soul-warming soup that’s ready to ladle and love.
Whether you’re serving a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this Broccoli Cheese Soup for the Crock Pot checks every box: easy, creamy, and incredibly flavorful.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Set it and forget it: Let the slow cooker do the work
- Ultra creamy and cheesy without canned soup
- Customizable with your favorite add-ins
- Great for leftovers—it reheats beautifully
It’s the cozy kind of recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl, ideal for lazy Sundays or chilly weeknights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup half-and-half or whole milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried basil (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Ingredient Swaps and Notes
- Use frozen broccoli if needed—just add it frozen directly to the pot.
- Swap in cream cheese for half the cheddar for a tangier taste.
- Add cooked bacon bits or diced ham for extra heartiness.
- Make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth and skipping meat-based toppings.
Step-by-Step Instructions
✅ 1. Prep the Vegetables
Place the broccoli florets, diced onion, and minced garlic into the Crock Pot.
✅ 2. Add the Broth
Pour in vegetable or chicken broth, making sure the vegetables are covered.
✅ 3. Cook Until Tender
Cover and cook:
- Low: 4–5 hours
- High: 2–3 hours
Broccoli should be tender and break apart easily with a spoon.
✅ 4. Blend the Soup
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot for a smooth texture.
No immersion blender? Transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender (be careful—it’s hot).
✅ 5. Add the Cheese
Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted and fully incorporated.
✅ 6. Thicken with Cream
In a bowl, whisk together:
- Half-and-half (or milk)
- Flour until smooth
Pour into the soup and stir. Let cook for an additional 30 minutes on low to thicken.
✅ 7. Season and Finish
Add salt, black pepper, and optional dried herbs to taste.
Stir in Parmesan cheese for an extra boost of umami flavor.
Tips for Success
- For extra creaminess, use half-and-half instead of milk.
- Stir occasionally after adding cheese to prevent sticking.
- For chunkier texture, blend only half the soup.
- Taste and season at the end—cheese and broth can vary in saltiness.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve this cozy soup with:
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas for a hearty lunch
- Dorito Casserole if you’re planning a comfort food feast
- Easy Turkey Wings as a savory side
- Baked Brie Appetizer to start a dinner party
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites to finish the meal on a sweet note
Storage & Leftovers
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring well
- Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 2 months, but texture may change slightly—add fresh cheese when reheating
More Recipes You’ll Love
Craving more warm, cheesy, or comforting dishes? Try:
- Dorito Casserole
- Easy Turkey Wings
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas
- Baked Brie Appetizer
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Cheese Soup for the Crock Pot is the kind of easy, nourishing recipe that brings the family together around the dinner table. It’s warm, it’s rich, and it’s loaded with cheesy goodness—without standing over the stove.
Try it once, and it just might become your favorite cold-weather tradition. And if you give it a go, don’t forget to share and tag @chefmaniac—we’d love to see your cheesy creations! 🧀🥣💚
