Master the art of savory soups: how to craft an indulgent broccoli cheese soup in a crock pot, step-by-step

Indulge in the irresistible warmth and flavor of homemade broccoli cheese soup, effortlessly crafted in your trusty crock pot. With just a few simple ingredients and a touch of patience, you can create a culinary masterpiece that will delight your taste buds and soothe your soul. Follow our step-by-step guide and discover the art of making broccoli cheese soup in crock pot.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Broccoli: Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened and translucent.
3. Create the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
4. Add the Broth and Milk: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Transfer to Crock Pot: Pour the soup mixture into the crock pot and add the broccoli florets.
6. Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the broccoli is tender.
7. Stir in the Cheese: Once the soup is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and combined.
8. Season to Taste: Add salt and black pepper to taste.

Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheese Soup:

• Use fresh broccoli: For the best flavor, use fresh broccoli florets. Frozen broccoli can also be used, but it may require longer cooking time.
• Don’t overcook the broccoli: Keep an eye on the broccoli and remove it from the soup when it’s tender-crisp. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy.
• Experiment with different cheeses: Feel free to adjust the types of cheese you use to create your own unique flavor combinations.
• Add a touch of nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg can enhance the flavor of the soup.
• Serve with crusty bread or crackers: Broccoli cheese soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Variations:

• Add vegetables: Enhance the soup by adding other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or potatoes.
• Use different broth: Experiment with different broths, such as vegetable broth or beef broth, to create different flavor profiles.
• Top with bacon: Crumbled bacon adds a smoky and savory touch to the soup.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour to create a gluten-free version of the soup.

Conclusion:

Indulge in the comforting warmth and tantalizing flavors of homemade broccoli cheese soup, effortlessly crafted in your crock pot. With its creamy texture, tender broccoli florets, and melted cheese, this soup is the perfect culinary companion for cozy evenings and special occasions. Experiment with variations, customize the seasonings, and savor the joy of creating a dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

FAQ:

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat over medium heat before serving.

Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
A: To thicken the soup, make a slurry by mixing equal parts cornstarch and water. Gradually whisk the slurry into the soup until desired consistency is achieved.