Broccoli Cheese Soup recipe designed for the crock pot

Ingredients:

4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 large heads, chopped)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups shredded carrots (optional)
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1/4 teaspoon ground mustard (optional for extra flavor)
2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (optional for thickening)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Chop the Broccoli: Cut the broccoli into small florets and chop the stems if you’d like to include them. The smaller the pieces, the quicker they will soften.
Shred Carrots: If using, shred the carrots for added texture and nutrition.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to Crock Pot
Combine Veggies: Add the broccoli florets, diced onion, minced garlic, and shredded carrots (if using) to the crock pot.
Add Broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground mustard (if using).
Step 3: Cook
Cook on Low: Set your crock pot to low and cook for 4-5 hours, or until the broccoli is very tender. If you’re in a rush, you can cook on high for 2-3 hours.
Step 4: Add the Dairy
Add Cream: Once the broccoli is tender, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half.
Add Cheeses: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese, stirring constantly until both are melted and fully incorporated.
Step 5: Thicken (Optional)
Thicken the Soup: If you’d like a thicker consistency, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the soup and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
Step 6: Blend the Soup (Optional)
Blend for Smoothness: If you prefer a smooth soup, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the crock pot. For a chunkier texture, blend just half of the soup and leave the rest with visible broccoli pieces.
Step 7: Serve
Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese, croutons, or a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor. Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side for dipping.