Crockpot Broccoli Soup

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

  1. Chop the Broccoli: Cut the broccoli into small florets, making them easier to blend later.
  2. Peel and Chop the Carrots: Peel the carrots and chop them into small pieces.
  3. Mince the Garlic: Mince the garlic cloves to release their flavor.

Step 2: Make the Roux

  1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a medium-sized skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. 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.
  3. 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

  1. Add Roux to Crockpot: Transfer the sautéed onion, garlic, and flour mixture into your crockpot.
  2. Add the Vegetables: Add the chopped carrots and broccoli florets to the crockpot.
  3. Pour in the Broth: Add vegetable broth and dried thyme to the crockpot. Stir everything to combine.

Step 4: Cook the Soup

  1. Cook on Low: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the vegetables are tender.
  2. 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

  1. Add Almond Milk: Stir in the unsweetened almond milk (or other non-dairy milk) to make the soup creamy.
  2. 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

  1. 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

  1. 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 celeryleeks, 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 chickentofu, 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!