Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of a classic favorite with this delightful recipe for Slow Cooker Broccoli & Cheese Soup. Whether you’re seeking comfort on a chilly day or simply craving a velvety, satisfying bowl, this soup brings together the goodness of broccoli and the richness of cheese in a harmonious blend that’s effortlessly crafted in your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups of high-quality vegetable broth
- 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Prep the Ingredients:
- Begin by gently washing and preparing the fresh broccoli florets. Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic, ensuring they’re ready to infuse their flavors.
2. Create a Flavorful Base:
- In a skillful sauté, melt the unsalted butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent and fragrant. Introduce the minced garlic and continue the symphony for another minute.
3. Develop the Soup Base:
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour into the sautéing mixture and whisk it skillfully, allowing the flour to combine with the butter and create a roux. Allow the roux to cook for a minute or two, enhancing its nutty aroma.
4. The Slow Cooker Magic:
- Transfer the splendid roux, the fresh broccoli florets, and the high-quality vegetable broth into your slow cooker. Stir the ingredients with care, ensuring they’re well combined.
5. Infuse Flavors:
- Season the mixture with the dried thyme, ground nutmeg, salt, and a dash of black pepper. Let these flavors weave their magic as they gently simmer.
6. The Cheesy Transformation:
- With a sense of anticipation, gradually introduce the grated sharp cheddar cheese to the soup. Allow it to melt luxuriously, embracing the broccoli with its creamy goodness.
7. A Touch of Creaminess:
- As the cheese imparts its lusciousness, pour in the heavy cream to elevate the soup’s velvety texture. Stir with grace to achieve the perfect balance of creaminess.
8. Let the Slow Cooker Work:
- Set your slow cooker to a low heat setting and let the soup simmer and meld its flavors for about 3-4 hours. The patience will be rewarded as the aroma fills your kitchen.
9. Ready to Savor:
- Once the soup has achieved its harmonious blend, it’s time to savor the delectable results. Ladle the creamy goodness into bowls and relish the comforting warmth.
Embrace the symphony of flavors and textures in every spoonful of Slow Cooker Broccoli & Cheese Soup. From the moment you prepare the ingredients to the satisfaction of savoring the final product, this recipe encapsulates the art of simplicity and indulgence. As you dip into the velvety embrace of cheese-infused broth and tender broccoli, you’ll discover a comforting bowl that embodies the magic of slow-cooked perfection.