Broccoli Cheddar Soup Slow Cooker Creamy Delight
Craving a warm, comforting meal? Broccoli Cheddar Soup made in a slow cooker is your answer! This creamy delight is simple to make and packs a flavor punch. With fresh broccoli, rich cheddar, and just a hint of Dijon, you’ll love how easy it is to prepare. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this heartwarming dish that will impress your family and warm your soul!
Ingredients
Comprehensive List of Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream (or use full-fat coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free option)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for added depth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme for aromatic flavor
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Optional: Toasted croutons and additional shredded cheese for topping
Gather these ingredients to make a warm, creamy soup. Fresh broccoli florets are key for taste and texture. Diced onion adds sweetness, while minced garlic brings depth. Vegetable broth forms the base, giving the soup a rich flavor.
Sharp cheddar cheese melts into creamy goodness, making each bite delightful. You can choose heavy cream for a rich finish or coconut milk for a lighter option. Dijon mustard gives a subtle kick, while dried thyme adds warmth.
Season it well with salt and pepper. Extra virgin olive oil ensures the onions sauté perfectly. For fun, add croutons and cheese on top when serving. This adds crunch and extra flavor, making your soup even better!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Base
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add 1 medium onion, finely diced, and sauté it until it turns translucent, about 5 minutes.
Next, add 3 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant, which should take about 1 minute.
Slow Cooker Assembly
Now, transfer the sautéed onion and garlic mixture to the slow cooker.
Add 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets, 4 cups of vegetable broth, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard.
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything to combine well.
Cooking Time and Blending
Set your slow cooker to cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
You want the broccoli to be tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Once cooked, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. You can also use a countertop blender, but do it in batches.
Final Touches
After blending, return the smooth soup to the slow cooker if needed.
Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 cups of freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
Mix until the cheese melts into the soup and everything is creamy.
Taste your soup and adjust the seasonings with more salt and pepper, if needed.
For a delightful finish, ladle the soup into bowls and top with toasted croutons and extra cheese.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Creamiest Texture
To get the creamiest texture, always shred your cheese. Pre-shredded cheese has additives that affect melting. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and creates a smoother soup. Use a box grater or food processor for quick shredding.
When blending, I recommend using an immersion blender. It makes blending easy and keeps your soup in one pot. If you use a countertop blender, be careful. Fill it only halfway to avoid spills. Blend until the soup is completely smooth for that creamy delight.
Enhancing Flavor
To boost flavor, add spices like garlic powder or onion powder. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add brightness. You can also try a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.
For added depth, consider mixing in a splash of lemon juice. This brightens the soup and balances the creaminess. You can also add cooked bacon or ham for a savory touch. These small changes can make a big difference in taste.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your soup with crusty bread like sourdough or a baguette. The crispy texture complements the creamy soup perfectly. You can also serve it with a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combo.
For presentation, ladle the soup into rustic bowls. Top with croutons and extra cheese. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for color. This makes your dish look as good as it tastes!
Variations
Dairy-Free Version
You can make this soup dairy-free easily. Start by swapping heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk. This creamy option keeps the soup rich. For cheese, use a dairy-free cheddar or nutritional yeast. Both options provide a nice flavor without dairy.
Additional Vegetable Options
Want to boost the nutrition? Add veggies like carrots and celery. These add flavor and texture. Just chop them small so they cook well. If you add more veggies, check the cooking time. You might need an extra 30 minutes on low for everything to get tender.
Spicy Twist
Do you love heat? Adding chili flakes or hot sauce can give your soup a kick. Mix them in when you add the broccoli. For a crunchy spice, serve with spicy croutons on top. This adds an exciting twist to your creamy delight.
Storage Info
Proper Cooling and Storing
Let your soup cool down to room temperature before putting it in the fridge. This helps keep it fresh. Use an airtight container to store the soup. Make sure the lid fits snugly to prevent air from getting in. This way, your soup stays tasty and safe.
Freezing Tips
To freeze the soup, let it cool completely first. Pour it into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand when frozen. You can keep it in the freezer for up to three months for the best taste. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, use the stove or microwave. If using the stove, heat it on low and stir often. This prevents sticking and helps keep the creaminess. If using the microwave, heat it in short bursts. Stir in between to make sure it heats evenly. Enjoy your warm, creamy broccoli cheddar soup!
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for the recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. It saves time and is easy to find. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the slow cooker. This helps it cook evenly and blend well.
How long can I store leftover soup?
You can store leftover soup in the fridge for about three to four days. Make sure to use an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. It can last for up to three months in the freezer.
Is it possible to add protein to this soup?
Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken, turkey, or even beans for protein. Just mix them in when you add the cream and cheese. This makes the soup heartier and more filling.
What can I serve with broccoli cheddar soup?
I love serving this soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Grilled cheese sandwiches also pair well. They add crunch and flavor to your meal.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use different cheeses! Gouda, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack all work well. Each cheese gives a unique taste, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite.
This blog post covered how to make a delicious broccoli cheddar soup from scratch. We explored the key ingredients and the step-by-step method for preparation using a slow cooker. I shared tips for achieving the creamiest texture and enhancing flavors. You can also try tasty variations and proper storage methods to keep your soup fresh. Making this soup is both easy and rewarding. Enjoy your cooking journey, and savor every warm bowl!
![To make lemon garlic scallops, you need fresh and simple ingredients. Here is what you will need: - 1 pound sea scallops, thawed if previously frozen - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - Zest and juice of 1 large lemon - Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped - Lemon slices for an elegant garnish Sea scallops are best for this dish. They have a sweet flavor and a firm texture. Choose bright, glossy scallops with a clean scent. Avoid any that smell fishy. Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor. It gives depth and richness to the dish. Lemon brings brightness and acidity, balancing the sweet scallops. The zest adds an extra layer of lemony goodness. When sourcing ingredients, look for a trusted fish market. Ask about the origin of the scallops. Fresh, high-quality ingredients make a big difference in taste. You want to create a dish that shines with flavor and freshness. For the olive oil, choose a high-quality extra virgin variety. It enhances the overall flavor profile. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness at the end. Always use fresh herbs for the best taste. By selecting quality ingredients, you set the stage for a memorable meal. Follow the [Full Recipe] to create this delightful dish! First, drying scallops is key. Use paper towels to pat them dry. Moisture will stop them from searing well. Next, season both sides with sea salt and black pepper. A light touch works wonders here. When you place them in the skillet, space them out. Overcrowding will steam them instead of searing them. Heat your olive oil in a large skillet on medium-high heat. Watch for it to shimmer but not smoke. Carefully add the dry scallops in a single layer. Let them sear for 2-3 minutes without moving them. This helps form a nice golden crust. Once they look brown, gently flip them using tongs. Now, add the minced garlic to the pan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Stir the garlic to stop it from burning. The scallops should become opaque and fully cooked. Remove the skillet from heat right after cooking. Add the lemon zest and juice to the pan. Toss the scallops gently so they soak up the flavors. Lastly, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top. This adds color and fresh taste. For serving, place the scallops on a plate and drizzle the pan juices over them. Garnish with lemon slices for an elegant touch. You can pair them with sautéed greens or a crisp salad for a complete meal. - Overcooking scallops: This is a big mistake. Scallops cook fast. If you cook them too long, they become rubbery. Aim for a golden crust on the outside and opaque inside. - Not using enough oil for searing: Oil helps create a nice crust. If you skimp on oil, the scallops may stick. Use at least three tablespoons to get good results. - Ignoring the resting time post-cooking: Let your scallops rest for a minute after cooking. This helps them stay juicy. Don’t rush this step! - Recommended skillet types for best results: A heavy skillet works best. Cast iron or stainless steel distributes heat evenly. Avoid non-stick pans; they won’t give you a good sear. - Importance of temperature control: Start with a hot skillet. If it's too cool, scallops won’t brown. Heat the oil until it shimmers. This shows it’s ready for the scallops. - Suggestions for seasoning variations: Besides lemon and garlic, try fresh herbs or spices. Thyme, chili flakes, or even a splash of white wine can add depth. Experiment to find your favorite mix! For the full recipe, check out the details above and get cooking! {{image_4}} You can elevate your lemon garlic scallops with a few simple tweaks. - Incorporating herbs: Add fresh thyme or basil for a fragrant twist. These herbs enhance the dish’s aroma and add depth to the flavor. - Alternative citrus options: Try lime or orange juice for a unique taste. Each citrus brings its own brightness and pairs nicely with scallops. - Adding heat: If you like spice, sprinkle in some chili flakes or drizzle Sriracha. The heat balances the dish’s richness and excites your taste buds. Pair your scallops with sides to create a full meal. Here are some ideas: - Suggested side dishes: Serve with sautéed greens for a fresh crunch. A light salad or creamy risotto also works well to complement the scallops. - Pairing with wines or cocktails: A chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the dish. For cocktails, a gin and tonic is refreshing and bright. - Plating ideas: For a restaurant-style look, place the scallops on a clean plate. Drizzle the pan juices over them and add lemon slices for a pop of color. A sprinkle of parsley adds a final touch of green. For the full recipe, check out the Lemon Garlic Scallops recipe. After you finish your Lemon Garlic Scallops, store any extras right. First, place them in a shallow, airtight container. This helps keep them fresh. You can put them in the fridge for up to two days. If you wait longer, the taste and texture change. To reheat, use a non-stick skillet. Heat it over low to medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Cover the pan with a lid. This method helps keep the scallops tender. You can freeze scallops, but do it right. Raw scallops freeze well if you place them in a sealed bag. Remove as much air as possible. They can stay fresh for up to three months. If you want to freeze cooked scallops, make sure they cool first. Then, follow the same bag method. To thaw, leave them in the fridge overnight. Never thaw scallops in warm water. This can ruin their texture. When you reheat frozen scallops, use low heat again. Check them often to avoid overcooking. Enjoy your scallops as fresh as possible! For the full recipe, check out the details above. You should use sea scallops for this recipe. Sea scallops are larger and have a sweet taste. Bay scallops are smaller and can be more delicate. They work well in soups or pasta but may not sear as nicely. When picking scallops at the market, look for these signs: - They should smell fresh, like the ocean. - The meat should be firm and glossy. - Avoid scallops that look dry or have brown spots. Yes, you can use other oils. Grapeseed oil or avocado oil are good options. They have high smoke points, too. Using different oils can change the flavor. Olive oil adds a rich taste, while grapeseed is lighter. Choose based on your preference and what you have on hand. Perfectly cooked scallops are opaque and firm. They should have a golden crust outside. The safe internal temperature for scallops is 145°F (63°C). Use a food thermometer to check. If you don’t have one, look for that golden color and firm texture. For a full recipe, check out the Lemon Garlic Scallops guide! Lemon garlic scallops are a tasty dish that combines fresh ingredients and simple steps. Using quality sea scallops, fresh garlic, and lemon makes all the difference. I shared tips for cooking and avoiding common mistakes, like overcooking. Remember, you can customize your flavors with herbs or spices. Enjoy your cooking journey. Perfect scallops can impress anyone. With practice, you’ll master this dish and feel confident serving it. Take your time and savor the process!](https://dishtreats.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/19c1a638-1668-4343-8a69-d1fc169e2d79-768x768.webp)
