Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Warm up with this creamy Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe that’s simple, cheesy, and perfect for cozy meals any day of the week. This comforting soup combines tender potatoes, vibrant broccoli, and rich cheddar cheese in a slow cooker, making it an effortless dish packed with flavors that taste like a hug in a bowl. Whether you want a hearty lunch or a satisfying dinner, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless Cooking: Just add the ingredients to your crockpot and let it do the work, freeing up your day for other fun activities.
  • Rich, Creamy Flavor: The blend of cheddar cheese and tender potatoes creates a silky texture you’ll crave again and again.
  • Nutritious & Delicious: Fresh broccoli adds a vibrant crunch and essential vitamins, balancing comfort with health.
  • Family-Friendly: Mild, cheesy flavors appeal to kids and adults alike, making mealtime a breeze.
  • Customizable: This recipe adapts easily to your taste, whether you want it extra cheesy, veggie-packed, or lighter.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keep it simple but impactful with fresh and staple kitchen ingredients that come together beautifully. Each ingredient brings something unique in flavor, texture, or color that makes this Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup truly special.

  • Russet potatoes: They provide a hearty base with their creamy consistency when cooked down.
  • Fresh broccoli florets: Adds color, nutrients, and a tender bite that contrasts the potatoes.
  • Sharp cheddar cheese: For that rich, cheesy flavor that melts perfectly into the soup.
  • Onion and garlic: They give a subtle, savory background flavor, elevating the overall taste.
  • Chicken or vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid foundation that keeps the soup moist and savory.
  • Milk or cream: Adds extra creaminess and smooth texture without overpowering the other flavors.
  • Butter: Enhances richness and helps to bring out the sweetness in the onions and potatoes.
  • Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings to balance and enhance every ingredient perfectly.

Variations for Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Feel free to personalize this soup recipe according to your dietary needs or flavor preferences. It’s easy to tweak the ingredients without sacrificing that comforting, cheesy goodness.

  • Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based version.
  • Add extra veggies: Toss in carrots, celery, or cauliflower for more texture and nutrition.
  • Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red chili flakes for warmth.
  • Healthier swap: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or simply use more milk for fewer calories.
  • Different cheese blends: Use a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a gooey, melty twist.
Easy Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

How to Make Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by peeling and dicing the russet potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Chop fresh broccoli florets and finely mince the onion and garlic to build a flavorful base.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Add the diced potatoes, broccoli, onion, garlic, and broth into the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper, then stir gently to mix everything together evenly.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Set your crockpot on low heat and cook for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the potatoes and broccoli are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Blend and Add Creaminess

Using an immersion blender, partially puree the soup to create a creamy texture while still leaving chunks for a satisfying bite. Stir in the milk or cream and butter to enhance richness.

Step 5: Stir in Cheddar Cheese

Add shredded cheddar cheese gradually, stirring until melted smoothly throughout. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Once everything is creamy, cheesy, and perfectly blended, ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

  • Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes give the best creamy texture when cooked slowly.
  • Don’t over-blend: Keep some chunks for a more interesting mouthfeel and heartier soup.
  • Use sharp cheddar: For a flavorful punch that stands out without needing extra seasoning.
  • Add cheese last: To prevent it from becoming stringy or greasy, melt it in after cooking is finished.
  • Customize cooking time: Adjust based on your crockpot’s heat level and when you want dinner ready.

How to Serve Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Garnishes

Top the soup with fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. A dollop of sour cream or crispy bacon bits also add delicious texture contrasts.

Side Dishes

Pair this cozy soup with a warm, crusty bread or buttery garlic toast for dipping. A simple green salad or roasted veggies balance the richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup inside hollowed-out bread bowls or ladle it over baked potatoes to double down on the potato love. You can even sprinkle extra cheese and broil it briefly for a golden crust on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing

This soup freezes well for up to 2 months. Cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat the soup on low heat in a pot or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You may want to add a splash of milk to loosen it up, as thickening can occur after chilling.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well and can be added directly to the crockpot; just monitor cooking times slightly as frozen veggies may soften more quickly.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! This Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free broth and checks your cheese ingredients for additives.

How can I make this soup vegan?

Use vegetable broth, replace the cheddar with vegan cheese, and swap butter and cream for plant-based alternatives like margarine and coconut or oat milk.

Can I add protein to the soup?

Sure! Cooked chicken, turkey, or crispy bacon bits can be stirred in after cooking to add extra protein and texture.

What can I do if the soup is too thick?

Simply stir in a little extra broth or milk while reheating to reach your preferred consistency.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare but feels special, this Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a definite must-try. It brings warmth, creamy texture, and cheesy goodness to your table with minimal effort. Cozy up with a bowl today and see why this recipe quickly becomes a favorite in any household!

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Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Warm up with this creamy Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup that’s simple, cheesy, and perfect for cozy meals any day. It combines tender russet potatoes, vibrant broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese cooked slowly in a crockpot for rich, comforting flavors and a silky texture. Ideal for hearty lunches or satisfying dinners, this family-friendly soup is easy to make, customizable to your taste, and packed with nutrients.

  • Author: Kathy
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high
  • Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes (low) or 3 hours 20 minutes (high)
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 4 cups diced russet potatoes (about 34 medium potatoes)
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 medium onion, finely minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids & Dairy

  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 1/2 cups milk or cream
  • 3 tablespoons butter

Cheese

  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Peel and dice the russet potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Chop the broccoli florets and finely mince the onion and garlic to create a flavorful base.
  2. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot: Add the diced potatoes, broccoli, onion, garlic, and broth into the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper, then stir gently to mix everything together evenly.
  3. Cook Low and Slow: Set your crockpot to low heat and cook for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the potatoes and broccoli are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
  4. Blend and Add Creaminess: Using an immersion blender, partially puree the soup to create a creamy texture while still leaving chunks for a satisfying bite. Stir in the milk or cream and butter to enhance richness.
  5. Stir in Cheddar Cheese: Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted smoothly throughout. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed.
  6. Serve Warm: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Choose russet potatoes for a creamy texture when cooked slowly.
  • Partially blend the soup to keep some chunks for a heartier mouthfeel.
  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor punch without extra seasoning.
  • Add cheese at the end to prevent stringiness or greasiness.
  • Adjust cooking time based on your crockpot’s heat setting and desired readiness.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: Crockpot, potato soup, broccoli cheddar soup, slow cooker soup, creamy soup, cheesy soup, comforting recipe, gluten free soup

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