Dinner

Creamy Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup for Busy Days Recipe

ByMatteo Rossi January 2, 2026January 2, 2026

Introduction

Imagine scooping a steaming bowl of velvety soup that feels like a warm hug on a hectic morning. This Creamy Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup combines tender broccoli, sharp cheddar, and a silky cream base to create a comforting, hearty start to your day. Perfect for busy schedules, it’s a set-and-forget recipe that delivers rich flavor with minimal effort.

A wooden bowl filled with creamy yellow soup topped with bright green broccoli florets and a sprinkle of shredded orange cheese. Small green herb pieces are scattered over the surface, with a larger sprig of parsley centered on top. The soup has a smooth texture with bits of carrot peeking through, and a silver spoon resting inside the bowl on the right side. The bowl sits on a knitted gray cloth, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 cups broccoli florets (about 2 heads)
1 cup diced carrots
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 oz cream cheese, cubed
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
½ tsp kosher salt
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
¼ tsp smoked paprika
Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
Optional: extra shredded cheddar for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the vegetables by washing the broccoli and cutting into bite-sized florets. Peel and dice the carrots, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
Step 2: Make a roux by melting butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden to remove the raw flour taste.
Step 3: In the crockpot, combine broccoli, carrots, onion, garlic, and vegetable broth. Stir in the roux, then season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and nutmeg.
Step 4: Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours. Stir gently after the first hour to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
Step 5: About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream until melted and smooth. Then add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until fully incorporated and glossy.
Step 6: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, topping with extra cheddar if desired, and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh broccoli for brighter color and firmer texture; frozen broccoli can become mushy.
Pre-warm the broth before adding to help the roux blend more smoothly.
For a smoother soup, puree 1 to 2 cups before adding the cheese, then stir back in.
Add a splash of dry white wine after the roux for subtle acidity or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard with the cheese for extra depth.
Try substituting cauliflower or winter greens for broccoli, or swap sharp cheddar for smoked Gouda or mozzarella for different flavors.
Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour, or dairy-free by replacing butter, cream cheese, and dairy cheese with plant-based alternatives.

Storage

Allow the soup to cool to room temperature, then store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much. Microwave reheating is also possible with 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

How to Serve

A wooden bowl filled with creamy broccoli cheese soup sits on a soft gray cloth with a wooden spoon in the background on a white marbled surface. The soup has a smooth, pale yellow base with visible small broccoli florets and shredded orange cheddar cheese sprinkled throughout. A large broccoli floret and fresh parsley are placed on top as garnish, adding bright green color and texture. A metal spoon rests inside the bowl's right side, partly submerged in the soup. Another similar wooden bowl is slightly blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it fully and reheat gently when needed. Its flavors often deepen after resting overnight.

What if I only have frozen broccoli?

Frozen broccoli can be used, but expect a softer texture and less vibrant color. Add it directly to the crockpot without thawing to prevent overcooking.