Broccoli & Cheese Soup Slow Cooker
Broccoli & Cheese Soup Slow Cooker is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings comfort to any table. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld, resulting in a creamy and rich soup that is perfect for any occasion. In this article, we’ll delve into the detailed process of making this delectable dish, exploring not only the ingredients but also providing step-by-step guidance to ensure a successful culinary adventure.
Ingredients:
Let’s start with a comprehensive overview of the ingredients required for Broccoli & Cheese Soup Slow Cooker.
| Ingredients | Quantity/Description |
|---|---|
| Chopped Broccoli Florets | 5 cups (about 16 ounces) |
| Grated Carrots | 1 cup (freshly grated or pre-cut julienne carrots) |
| Yellow Onion | 1 medium (finely diced) |
| Garlic | 3 cloves (minced) |
| Reduced Fat Cream Cheese | 2 ounces (avoid using fat-free) |
| Dried Oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Freshly Grated Nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Reduced Sodium Chicken Broth or Vegetable Broth | 2 1/2 cups |
| 2% Evaporated Milk | 1 can (12 ounces) |
| Kosher Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Grated) | 8 ounces (1 block) |
Instructions:
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this delightful soup.
- Prepare Ingredients: Place broccoli, carrots, onion, and garlic in a 5-to-6-quart slow cooker.
- Add Creamy Goodness: Top the vegetables with cream cheese, oregano, nutmeg, and chicken broth. Stir to distribute evenly.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on high for 2 hours or low for 4-6 hours until the broccoli is tender.
- Blend for Smooth Texture: Remove the lid and stir in evaporated milk. Use an immersion blender to puree 3/4 of the soup for a smooth texture with a few broccoli chunks.
- Final Touch: Recover the soup and let it cook on low for an additional 10 minutes. Stir in salt, pepper, and grated cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Melted Cheese Magic: Recover and cook on high until the cheese is fully melted, and the soup is hot (approximately 5 minutes). Serve warm and enjoy!
