Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for thickening)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Vegetables:
    • Add the chopped broccoli florets, onion, minced garlic, and diced carrots to the crockpot.
  2. Add the Broth and Seasonings:
    • Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth.
    • Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
  3. Cook in the Crockpot:
    • Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
  4. Blend the Soup (Optional):
    • For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency. Alternatively, transfer a portion to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the crockpot.
  5. Thicken the Soup (Optional):
    • For a thicker soup, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste. Gradually whisk in 1/2 cup of the hot broth from the crockpot until smooth, then pour this mixture back into the crockpot and stir to combine.
  6. Add the Cream and Cheese:
    • Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted and the soup is well combined. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes on low, or until heated through.
  7. Serve:
    • Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with extra cheese, a sprinkle of black pepper, or croutons if desired.

Benefits:

  1. Nutrient-Rich Ingredients:
    • Broccoli: A powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, broccoli is high in vitamins C, K, and A. It contains fiber, antioxidants, and folate, which support immune health, aid digestion, and promote healthy skin and vision.
    • Cheddar Cheese: Provides protein, calcium, and healthy fats. While cheddar cheese does contain saturated fat, it also offers essential nutrients such as phosphorus, zinc, and vitamin B12.
    • Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, an antioxidant that the body converts to vitamin A, which is essential for eye health. Carrots also provide fiber and vitamin K.
    • Garlic and Onion: Both contain compounds with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties.
  2. Supports Immune Health:
    • The combination of broccoli, garlic, and onion offers a variety of antioxidants and phytonutrients that help strengthen the immune system and protect against illnesses.
  3. Promotes Heart Health:
    • Broccoli is high in fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels and promote heart health. Garlic and onions have been linked to reduced blood pressure and improved circulation.
  4. Convenience and Comfort:
    • The crockpot method makes this soup incredibly easy to prepare, allowing the flavors to meld together over time. It’s a great option for a healthy, homemade meal with minimal effort.
  5. Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly:
    • With modifications, this soup can fit into low-carb and ketogenic diets, making it versatile for different dietary preferences.

History:

Broccoli Cheddar Soup, as we know it today, became popular in the United States in the late 20th century. It was popularized by several American restaurants, especially Panera Bread, which included a version of this comforting, cheesy soup in their menu lineup in the 1990s. The combination of broccoli and cheese likely originated as a way to make vegetables more palatable and appealing to both children and adults.

Broccoli itself has a long history, originating in the Mediterranean region more than 2,000 years ago. The Romans were among the first to cultivate broccoli, and it spread to the rest of Europe over the centuries. It was introduced to the U.S. by Italian immigrants in the 19th century. By the 20th century, broccoli became a staple in American cuisine, favored for its versatility and nutritional benefits.

Nutritional Information:

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving (based on 6 servings per recipe):

  • Calories: ~250-300 kcal
  • Protein: ~10-12 grams
  • Fat: ~20 grams (includes healthy fats from cheese and optional butter)
  • Carbohydrates: ~10-12 grams
    • Fiber: ~2-3 grams
    • Sugars: ~3-4 grams
  • Calcium: ~200-300 mg (20-30% DV)
  • Vitamin A: ~60-70% DV
  • Vitamin C: ~30-40% DV
  • Iron: ~8% DV
  • Sodium: ~600-800 mg (varies with added salt and cheese)

Tips for a Healthier Version:

  • Lower the Sodium: Opt for low-sodium broth and use less cheese or choose a reduced-sodium variety.
  • Reduce the Fat: Use milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and consider reducing the amount of cheese used.
  • Increase the Fiber: Add more vegetables like cauliflower, kale, or additional carrots for added fiber and nutrients.

Enjoy Your Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup! 🥦🧀

This creamy, cheesy soup is perfect for cozy days and requires minimal prep time — let your crockpot do all the work

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