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Crowd-Pleasing Crockpot Cheddar Broccoli Soup (No Velveeta)

crockpot cheddar broccoli soup - featured image

A creamy, cheesy broccoli cheddar soup made entirely in the crockpot with real sharp cheddar cheese—no processed cheese products. Perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 4 cups frozen broccoli florets (about 16 ounces)
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: extra shredded cheddar, croutons, crispy bacon bits, or a drizzle of heavy cream

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and stir constantly for 1 minute.
  2. Transfer the onion mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker. Add the broth and milk, whisking until the flour is fully incorporated and no lumps remain.
  3. Add the frozen broccoli florets and stir to combine.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the broccoli is very tender.
  5. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the crockpot until smooth and creamy. (Alternatively, let cool slightly and blend in batches in a countertop blender.)
  6. Turn the crockpot off or to the ‘keep warm’ setting. Add the Dijon mustard and freshly grated cheddar cheese. Stir gently until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and top with desired garnishes.

Notes

For best results, always grate your own cheese from a block—pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Turn off the heat before adding the cheese to avoid graininess. The soup can be kept on warm for up to 6 hours, making it ideal for parties.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot broccoli cheddar soup, slow cooker soup, broccoli cheese soup, no velveeta, crowd-pleasing soup, easy soup recipe