Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup
Warm, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy — this Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup is the ultimate cozy comfort food for busy nights. It’s a dump-and-go crockpot dinner that tastes just like the famous Panera broccoli and cheese soup, but even easier to make at home!
This slow cooker broccoli cheddar soup is everything you crave in a hearty, comforting meal — thick, velvety, and packed with tender broccoli and melted cheddar cheese.
Inspired by classic Panera flavors, this version simplifies the process using your slow cooker for a truly effortless dish. Whether you’re looking for easy dinner recipes or cozy weeknight meals, this recipe delivers on both taste and convenience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Dump-and-go simplicity – Just add everything to your slow cooker and let it do the work.
- Rich, creamy texture – The combination of cheddar, milk, and broccoli makes every spoonful irresistible.
- Family favorite – Even picky eaters love this comforting bowl of cheesy goodness.
- Customizable – Add chicken, bacon, or carrots to make it heartier.
- Perfect for meal prep – Stays delicious for days and reheats beautifully.
Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets or frozen, thawed
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 medium carrots grated
- 3 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk whole or 2%
- 1 cup heavy cream optional for extra creaminess
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup cooked shredded chicken for Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup
- Substitutions:
- Use half-and-half instead of milk for a richer texture.
- For a lighter version swap the cream for extra broth.
- Try Monterey Jack or Velveeta instead of cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Instructions
- Prep the veggies: Chop the broccoli into small florets and grate the carrots. Dice the onion for even cooking.
- Dump and go: In your slow cooker, add the broccoli, carrots, onion, chicken broth, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours, or high for 2–3 hours, until the broccoli is tender and the soup smells fragrant and cozy.
- Make the cheese base: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, then slowly add the milk. Stir until thickened and smooth.
- Combine everything: Pour the milk mixture into the slow cooker, stirring well. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the soup turns creamy and thick.
- Taste and adjust: Add more salt, pepper, or cheese as needed. For a smoother texture, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender.
- Serve hot: Ladle into bowls and top with extra cheese, croutons, or a sprinkle of paprika for garnish.
Pro Tips & Variations
- Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the shredded chicken for a meat-free version of this slow cooker broccoli cheddar soup.
- Add more veggies: Toss in chopped cauliflower, spinach, or even diced potatoes for extra heartiness.
- Spice it up: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a gentle heat that complements the creamy cheese base.
- Use different cheeses: Swap cheddar for Colby Jack, Gouda, or a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for a unique flavor twist.
- Lighter version: Replace heavy cream with evaporated milk or extra broth to cut calories without losing creaminess.
Storage & Reheating Tips:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring often to prevent curdling.
- Avoid freezing, as dairy-based soups can separate after thawing — but you can freeze it before adding cheese and cream, then finish it fresh when reheating.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this crock pot broccoli cheese soup with crusty bread, garlic toast, or buttery dinner rolls for dipping.
- Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted chicken breast for a balanced meal.
- For a cozy fall dinner or an easy lunch meal prep, top bowls with extra shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, or a drizzle of cream.
- It’s perfect for busy weeknights, dump and go crockpot dinners, or holiday potlucks when you want something comforting and crowd-pleasing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it a day in advance and reheat on low before serving. The flavors deepen beautifully overnight.
Can I freeze broccoli cheese soup?
You can freeze it before adding the dairy. Add the cheese and cream after thawing for the best creamy texture.
Can I add chicken?
Absolutely! Stir in cooked, shredded chicken during the last 30 minutes for a delicious chicken broccoli cheese soup version.
