Name: Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-484661H11M19S
Total time: PT-484661H11M19S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced; 3 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup milk (whole milk or heavy cream for a richer soup); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional); 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor); Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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This Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy evening. Packed with hearty potatoes, fresh broccoli, and a rich blend of cheddar cheese, it’s a meal that satisfies both your hunger and your taste buds. The beauty of this recipe lies in the simplicity and the ease of preparation. You can toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it work its magic, filling your home with the delightful aroma of a homemade soup. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly dinner or a dish that’s perfect for meal prepping, this soup will quickly become a favorite. The combination of tender potatoes and broccoli, smothered in a cheesy, velvety broth, makes for an indulgent yet nourishing bowl of soup that everyone will enjoy. And the best part? It’s so easy to make, even for busy weeknights. This recipe is also versatile, so you can adjust it to suit your taste, whether you prefer it extra cheesy, creamy, or with a little extra spice. Let’s dive into this recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Effortless to Make

This soup is a dream for busy cooks. With just a little prep, everything goes into the Crockpot and cooks on its own. You can set it and forget it, making it ideal for busy days.

2. Comforting and Hearty

Packed with tender potatoes and crisp broccoli, this soup is both filling and nourishing. The richness of cheddar cheese elevates it to the perfect comfort food level.

3. Family-Friendly

Whether you have picky eaters or not, this creamy, cheesy soup is a hit with everyone. It’s mild in flavor but packed with good-for-you veggies, making it a win for families.

4. Customizable

This recipe is highly versatile! You can easily adjust the cheese level, swap ingredients, or make it spicier if that’s your style. You can also add proteins like bacon or chicken for more heartiness.

5. Perfect for Meal Prep

The recipe makes a generous amount of soup, so it’s perfect for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day, making it ideal for lunches or a quick dinner.

Ingredients

Potatoes
Broccoli florets
Cheddar cheese
Onion
Garlic
Vegetable broth
Milk or cream
Butter
Flour
Salt and pepper

Variations

Add Bacon or Ham: For extra flavor, add crispy bacon or ham to the soup.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cheese and plant-based milk for a vegan alternative.
Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken or sausage for a more substantial meal.
Low-Carb Option: Substitute cauliflower for potatoes for a low-carb version.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by peeling and chopping the potatoes into small cubes. Chop the broccoli into small florets. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Combine in the Crockpot

In your Crockpot, combine the potatoes, broccoli, onion, garlic, and vegetable broth. Stir gently to mix everything.

Step 3: Add the Seasonings

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the Crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to create a roux. Gradually add the milk or cream, stirring until the mixture thickens. Then, stir in the cheddar cheese until smooth and melted.

Step 5: Blend and Combine

Once the vegetables are tender, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, you can blend about half of the soup in a regular blender and return it to the Crockpot.

Step 6: Add the Cheese Sauce

Stir in the prepared cheese sauce, and allow the soup to cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined and heated through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls, and serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Russet Potatoes: Russet potatoes hold up well in soups and create a creamy texture.
Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Add the broccoli near the end of the cooking time to keep it vibrant and tender, not mushy.
Make it Extra Creamy: For an even richer soup, substitute half-and-half for milk or add more cheese.
Use Fresh Broccoli: While frozen broccoli can work, fresh broccoli adds more texture and flavor.
Slow Cooker Size: If you’re using a large Crockpot, you may need to adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly.

How to Serve

This soup is great on its own or paired with a crusty piece of bread or a side salad. For extra protein, you can serve it alongside a grilled chicken breast, or add bacon bits or crumbled sausage on top for a savory finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to regain its creamy texture if needed.

Freezing

This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Reheating

When reheating, add a bit more milk or cream to help restore its creamy consistency, as soups with potatoes tend to thicken after storage.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli in this soup?

Yes, but fresh broccoli provides better texture and flavor. If using frozen, add it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is the classic choice, you can try using Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a combination of cheeses for a different flavor profile.

3. Can I make this soup without a Crockpot?

Yes, you can make this soup on the stove. Simply cook the vegetables in a large pot and follow the same steps for making the cheese sauce.

4. How can I make this soup spicier?

Add some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the Crockpot for a spicy kick.

5. Can I use a different kind of potato?

While russet potatoes work best, you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture.

6. How do I thicken the soup?

If you prefer a thicker soup, blend more of the potatoes and vegetables or use a little more flour in the roux.

7. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. It often tastes better the next day!

8. Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free as it contains flour in the roux. However, you can use a gluten-free flour substitute to make it gluten-free.

9. Can I add protein to this soup?

Yes, you can add cooked chicken, sausage, or even crumbled bacon for extra protein and flavor.

10. How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering a combination of creamy textures and hearty flavors that make it irresistible. It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and perfect for families or meal prep. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner or preparing a batch for the week, this soup is sure to become a go-to favorite. Enjoy it with a side of crusty bread or your favorite protein for a satisfying meal any time of the year.