Calling all foodies! uncover the art of crafting broccoli cheese soup in your crock pot

Indulge in the warm and comforting flavors of broccoli cheese soup, effortlessly prepared in the convenience of your crock pot. This recipe will guide you through each step, ensuring a creamy, cheesy, and delectable soup that will delight your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 1 head of broccoli, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 3 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup of flour
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Broccoli: Wash and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened.

3. Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot: Transfer the sautéed aromatics to the crock pot. Add the broccoli, broth, and seasonings.

4. Cook on Low: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the broccoli is tender.

5. Create the Roux: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and some of the soup liquid until a smooth paste forms.

6. Thicken the Soup: Gradually add the roux to the crock pot while stirring constantly. This will thicken the soup.

7. Add Dairy: Stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Allow the soup to simmer on low for 30 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the soup is heated through.

Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheese Soup:

• Use fresh broccoli: Fresh broccoli will give the soup a vibrant green color and a crisp texture.
• Don’t overcook the broccoli: Overcooked broccoli will become mushy and lose its vibrant color.
• Add extra cheese: If desired, add more grated cheddar or Parmesan cheese to enhance the cheesy flavor.
• Serve with bread or crackers: Pair the soup with crusty bread, crackers, or tortilla chips for dipping.

Variations:

• Add vegetables: Enhance the soup by adding other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or zucchini.
• Use different cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or Gouda.
• Top with bacon: Crispy bacon bits can add a smoky and savory flavor to the soup.

The Perfect Comfort Food

Broccoli cheese soup is a comforting dish that is perfect for cold nights, cozy gatherings, or simply when you crave a warm and cheesy meal. Its creamy texture, flavorful broth, and tender broccoli will leave you feeling satisfied and content.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Can I make the soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, the soup can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Q: Can I freeze the soup?
A: Yes, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing in airtight containers.

Q: How can I make the soup gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free flour to make the roux. You can also omit the flour entirely and thicken the soup with cornstarch instead.