There’s something undeniably soothing about a bowl of hot, cheesy soup on a cool day. Whether it’s autumn, winter, or just a rainy afternoon, Broccoli Cheese Soup always feels like the hug-in-a-bowl you didn’t know you needed. And when you combine that classic comfort with the ease of crock pot cooking, you get a dish that’s not only delicious but also virtually hands-free.
This recipe transforms a few simple ingredients—Velveeta cheese, frozen broccoli, onions, milk, butter, and a can of cream of chicken soup—into a creamy, flavorful, and soul-satisfying soup the whole family will love. It’s rich, thick, cheesy, and brimming with tender broccoli bits, with no fancy tools or techniques required.
Let’s break it down into everything you need to know to master this slow cooker favorite and even customize it to your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
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Simple ingredients – Most of the components are pantry or freezer staples.
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Minimal prep – Just a quick sauté and then the crock pot takes over.
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Comfort food at its best – Creamy, cheesy, and packed with cozy flavor.
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Perfect for meal prep – Reheats beautifully throughout the week.
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Kid-friendly – Even picky eaters tend to go for cheesy soup!
Ingredients (Serves 6)
Here’s what you’ll need, measured in standard US cups:
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½ cup chopped onion
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2 tablespoons butter or margarine
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1 (10-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
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1½ cups milk (whole milk preferred for creaminess)
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1 lb (16 ounces) Velveeta cheese, cubed
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1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped broccoli
Optional additions:
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Salt and pepper to taste
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¼ tsp garlic powder (for extra flavor)
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¼ tsp paprika or a pinch of cayenne (for a slight kick)
Equipment
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1 medium skillet (for sautéing onions)
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1 slow cooker (crock pot), 4-quart or larger
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Cheese knife or sturdy utensil (Velveeta can be sticky)
Directions
Step 1: Sauté the Onion
In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3–5 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and slightly golden. This step enhances the flavor and aroma of your soup base.
Tip: You can add a clove of minced garlic during this step for a deeper savory flavor.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot
Transfer the sautéed onions into the crock pot. Then add:
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The entire can of cream of chicken soup
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Milk
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Cubed Velveeta cheese
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Frozen chopped broccoli
Stir everything gently until somewhat combined. Don’t worry if the cheese isn’t fully integrated yet—it will melt smoothly during cooking.
Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and set your crock pot to LOW heat. Let the soup cook for 3 to 4 hours, stirring occasionally if you’re nearby. The cheese will melt, the broccoli will tenderize, and the flavors will meld into cheesy perfection.
Avoid cooking on high if possible, as it may cause dairy ingredients to separate.
Step 4: Stir and Serve
Once the cheese is fully melted and the soup is steaming hot, give it one last stir. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread, a side salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350–400 kcal |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 950mg |
Note: Calorie count varies depending on milk type and specific cheese brand used.
Tips and Variations
Cheese Matters
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While Velveeta melts perfectly and adds iconic creaminess, you can substitute part of it with shredded sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor.
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Avoid pre-shredded cheese as it may contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Make It Heartier
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Stir in cooked, shredded chicken for a protein boost.
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Add cooked rice or small pasta (like orzo) for a more filling soup.
Make It Vegetarian
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Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup instead of cream of chicken.
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Ensure your cheese and butter are vegetarian-friendly.
Boost the Veggies
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Add finely diced carrots or cauliflower for more texture and color.
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Use fresh broccoli (chopped into small florets) if preferred—just steam slightly before adding to reduce cook time.
Spice It Up
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Stir in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or hot sauce for depth and a gentle kick.
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Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for warmth.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Comfort:
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Toasted garlic bread or a thick slice of sourdough
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Grilled cheese sandwiches
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Buttery crackers or breadsticks
Fresh Pairings:
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Crisp Caesar salad or arugula with vinaigrette
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Apple slices or fresh fruit to balance the richness
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Pickles or olives for a salty contrast
Storage and Reheating
To Store:
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Let soup cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
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Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
To Freeze:
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Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy content, which may separate upon reheating.
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If you do freeze, stir well during reheating to reincorporate ingredients.
To Reheat:
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Microwave individual servings in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
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Or warm on stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Planning to meal prep or feed a crowd? Here’s how to streamline the process:
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Sauté onions and cube Velveeta ahead of time.
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Assemble all ingredients in a container the night before, refrigerate, and pour into crock pot when ready.
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If hosting a party, keep the soup warm on LOW for several hours during serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Absolutely. Just chop it small and steam it lightly before adding, or increase the cooking time.
What if I don’t have Velveeta?
Use a combination of American cheese and shredded cheddar for a similar melt. Add a splash of evaporated milk for silkiness.
Can I add meat to the soup?
Yes! Diced ham, crumbled cooked sausage, or shredded rotisserie chicken work great.
Is it gluten-free?
Not by default. Most condensed soups contain gluten. Look for a certified gluten-free variety or make a roux-based soup from scratch.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Broccoli Cheese Soup is more than just a recipe — it’s a cozy tradition in the making. It requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, making it ideal for busy families, beginner cooks, or anyone needing a big bowl of comfort.
Its versatility is one of its strongest suits. You can easily adjust it to meet dietary needs, boost nutrition, or simply suit your personal taste preferences. Whether served on its own, alongside a salad or sandwich, or as part of a larger spread, this soup always hits the spot.