This Crockpot Broccoli Soup is a creamy, comforting, and healthy dish that’s perfect for cozy nights or meal prep. It’s full of fresh vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and onions, and it’s made with a dairy-free base of vegetable broth and almond milk. With the slow cooking process, the flavors develop beautifully while you go about your day!
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours on low (or until vegetables are tender)
- Total Time: 4-5 hours (plus prep)
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients List
For the Soup:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other non-dairy milk)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or use a gluten-free alternative)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Chop the Broccoli: Cut the broccoli into small florets, making them easier to blend later.
- Peel and Chop the Carrots: Peel the carrots and chop them into small pieces.
- Mince the Garlic: Mince the garlic cloves to release their flavor.
Step 2: Make the Roux
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a medium-sized skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic and stir well to form a roux. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
Step 3: Transfer to Crockpot
- Add Roux to Crockpot: Transfer the sautéed onion, garlic, and flour mixture into your crockpot.
- Add the Vegetables: Add the chopped carrots and broccoli florets to the crockpot.
- Pour in the Broth: Add vegetable broth and dried thyme to the crockpot. Stir everything to combine.
Step 4: Cook the Soup
- Cook on Low: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Puree the Soup: Once the vegetables are soft, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, then return it to the crockpot.
Step 5: Add Creaminess
- Add Almond Milk: Stir in the unsweetened almond milk (or other non-dairy milk) to make the soup creamy.
- Season to Taste: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep in mind that the saltiness of the broth may affect how much salt you need to add.
Step 6: Final Cook
- Heat Through: Let the soup cook on low for an additional 15-30 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 7: Serve
- Serve Hot: Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with freshly cracked black pepper if desired.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Store: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
- Freeze: This soup freezes well for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
Flavor Variations & Substitutions
- Add Vegan Cheese: Stir in some dairy-free cheese for extra creaminess and flavor.
- Add Other Veggies: Feel free to add celery, leeks, or kale for more flavor and texture.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbs: 18 g
- Net Carbs: 10 g
- Fiber: 8 g
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works just as well in this recipe. Just add it to the crockpot directly without thawing.
Q: Can I make this soup without almond milk?
Yes, you can use any non-dairy milk such as coconut milk, oat milk, or soy milk.
Q: Can I add more protein to this soup?
Yes, you can add cooked chicken, tofu, or even lentils to increase the protein content of this soup.
Call-to-Action
Give this Crockpot Broccoli Soup a try for a hearty, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep. It’s easy, comforting, and low-carb — ideal for anyone looking for a nutritious, tasty soup!