Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Warm up with this creamy Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe that is simple, hearty, and perfect for cozy nights in. This comforting soup blends tender potatoes, vibrant broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese into a luscious, slow-cooked delight. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or a filling lunch, this recipe offers ease and flavor in one bowl, making it an all-time favorite for soup lovers everywhere.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless cooking: Set it and forget it method means you spend less time cooking and more time relaxing.
• Rich flavor profile: Creamy potatoes paired with fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar create a perfectly balanced taste.
• Family-friendly: This soup satisfies picky eaters and adults alike with its familiar, comforting ingredients.
• Nutritious ingredients: Loaded with vegetables and protein from the cheese, it’s a wholesome choice for any meal.
• Perfect for any season: Great to cozy up with during chilly weather but light enough for mild days as well.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keep your pantry and fridge stocked with these simple yet essential ingredients to bring out the best textures, colors, and flavors in your Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Each component plays a critical role in making the soup creamy, hearty, and visually appealing.

• Russet potatoes: These starchy potatoes create a creamy base when slow-cooked and mashed slightly.
• Fresh broccoli florets: Adds a beautiful green color and mild crunch that complements the soft potatoes.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: For rich, tangy flavor that melts smoothly into the soup.
• Onion: Provides a savory foundation and depth to the broth.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic warmth and complexity.
• Chicken or vegetable broth: Forms the flavorful liquid base essential for slow cooking.
• Milk or cream: Gives the soup its silky texture and indulgent feel.
• Butter: Enhances richness and helps soften the veggies as they cook.
• Salt and pepper: Basic but necessary seasonings to boost overall taste.

Variations for Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your dietary needs or flavor preferences. The beauty of Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is how easy it is to adapt by switching out or adding ingredients without compromising on comfort or taste.

• Vegetarian option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully plant-based version.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a subtle kick.
• Cheese variations: Substitute cheddar with smoked gouda or pepper jack for a different flavor twist.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Swap cheese and milk with dairy-free alternatives like nutritional yeast and oat milk.
• Extra veggies: Toss in chopped carrots or cauliflower to increase the nutritional content and texture complexity.

How to Make Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into bite-sized chunks, chopping the broccoli into small florets, mincing the garlic, and finely dicing the onion. Preparing the ingredients evenly will help them cook consistently in the crockpot.

Step 2: Layer Ingredients in the Crockpot

Add the diced potatoes, broccoli florets, onions, and garlic to the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then dot the butter on top. This layering ensures even distribution of flavors as the soup simmers.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Soup

Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the potatoes are tender and beginning to break down, creating that perfect creamy texture.

Step 4: Blend or Mash for Creaminess

Use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup right in the crockpot, leaving some potato chunks for texture. Alternatively, mash a few potatoes with a potato masher if you prefer less blending.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Milk

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk or cream, mixing gently until the cheese melts completely. This step makes the soup irresistibly rich and smooth.

Step 6: Season to Taste

Finish with salt and pepper, adjusting the seasoning based on your flavor preference. Give it one last gentle stir and it’s ready to serve piping hot.

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• Choose russet potatoes wisely: Their high starch content makes for a naturally creamy consistency as they cook down.
• Don’t overcook broccoli: Add broccoli in the last hour of slow cooking for tender but not mushy texture.
• Use sharp cheddar: It melts well and provides bold flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Mix blended and chunky: Partial blending helps achieve a creamy soup with satisfying texture variation.
• Season gradually: Adjust salt and spices at the end to avoid over-seasoning during slow cook.

How to Serve Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Garnishes

Top your bowl with extra shredded cheddar, a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor, color, and texture contrast.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with warm crusty bread, garlic rolls, or a fresh side salad, turning it into a satisfying meal for lunch or dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic, fun presentation or in mason jars for a charming, portable lunch option. Sprinkle some herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of freshness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftover Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days, ensuring flavors stay fresh and the texture remains creamy.

Freezing

This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Freeze in portion-sized containers, leaving room for expansion, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cheese from separating. Adding a splash of milk helps restore creaminess if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this soup?

Yes, frozen broccoli works just fine and is convenient—you can add it directly to the crockpot, but be mindful that it may cook faster, so add it during the last hour of cooking.

Is this soup suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Absolutely! Just substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and ensure your cheese is vegetarian-friendly, and you’re good to go.

Can I make this soup in an instant pot instead?

Yes, you can make Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup in an Instant Pot using the sauté and slow cook modes or on manual pressure cook for faster results.

How can I make the soup creamier without heavy cream?

Use whole milk or evaporated milk, and let the potatoes partially break down during cooking for natural creaminess.

What can I add to make the soup more filling?

Consider adding cooked chicken, bacon bits, or even cooked quinoa to boost the protein and make this soup a heartier meal.

Final Thoughts

Ready to cozy up with a bowl of creamy comfort? This Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe brings warmth, flavor, and ease into every spoonful. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation for those chilly evenings and anytime you crave a hug in a bowl.

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