Slow Cooker Crack Broccoli Cheese Soup
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or 2 bags of frozen broccoli florets)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups heavy cream
8 oz cream cheese, cubed
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried thyme
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt (or to taste)
4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (for topping)
Optional Toppings:
Extra shredded cheddar cheese
Crumbled bacon
Chopped green onions
Directions:
Prepare the Broccoli:
If using fresh broccoli, cut the florets into bite-sized pieces. If using frozen broccoli, there’s no need to thaw; just add them directly to the slow cooker.
Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker:
Place the broccoli florets, chopped onion, minced garlic, and chicken broth into the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Cook on Low:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The broccoli should be tender by the end of the cooking time.
Make the Soup Creamy:
About 30 minutes before serving, add the cubed cream cheese and heavy cream to the slow cooker. Stir until the cream cheese has melted and the soup begins to thicken.
Then, add in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until all the cheeses have melted into the soup and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
Season the Soup:
Add the dried thyme, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine and taste for seasoning, adjusting with more salt or pepper if needed.
Blend the Soup (Optional):
For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can transfer about half of the soup to a regular blender, blend it until smooth, and return it to the slow cooker.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon, extra shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions if desired. Serve with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 4-6 hours (on low) or 2-3 hours (on high)
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: Approx. 350-400 per serving | Servings: 6-8
