Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup: A Cozy Comfort Meal
Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days.This hearty soup combines tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese in a velvety, flavorful broth. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to blend beautifully, creating a smooth and satisfying texture.To make this soup, simply toss diced potatoes, chopped broccoli, onions, garlic, and vegetable or chicken broth into a crockpot. Let it cook on low for 6–7 hours (or on high for 3–4 hours) until the vegetables are tender.Blend part of the soup for a creamy consistency while leaving some chunks for texture. Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika for extra depth.This soup is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. Serve it with crusty bread or garlic toast for a comforting meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 4 cups potatoes peeled and diced
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoon water
For Garnish:
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Crumbled bacon
- Chopped green onions or parsley
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Peel and dice the potatoes, chop the broccoli, and mince the garlic and onion.
- Load the Crockpot: Add the potatoes, broccoli, onion, garlic, and broth to the crockpot. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours until the potatoes are tender.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in the milk (or cream) and shredded cheddar cheese. If you prefer a thicker soup, mix cornstarch and water, then stir into the soup. Cook for another 15–20 minutes until thickened.
- Serve & Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with extra shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and green onions or parsley.
Notes
Why You Will Love Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with hearty goodness. This easy slow-cooker recipe combines tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and rich cheddar cheese, creating a warm and satisfying meal perfect for chilly days. One of the best things about this soup is its convenience. Just toss the ingredients into the crockpot, set it, and let it cook while you go about your day. The potatoes become soft and creamy, while the broccoli adds a fresh, slightly earthy flavor. The cheddar cheese melts into the broth, creating a rich and velvety texture that makes every spoonful irresistible. This soup is also versatile. You can add extra veggies like carrots or cauliflower for more flavor and texture. Want more protein? Stir in cooked bacon or shredded chicken. Plus, it’s easy to make gluten-free by using cornstarch as a thickener instead of flour. It’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it a perfect family meal. Serve it with crusty bread or garlic toast for a cozy, comforting dinner. Once you try it, Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup will become a go-to favorite!Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup – Tips and Serving Tricks
Here are some expert tips and serving tricks to make it even better:Tips for the Best Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
1. Choose the Right Potatoes
- Use Russet potatoes for a creamy texture or Yukon Gold for a buttery flavor.
- Dice potatoes evenly to ensure even cooking.
2. Don’t Overcook the Broccoli
- Add broccoli in the last 30–45 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- For a brighter green color and better texture, you can steam the broccoli separately and add it at the end.
3. Use Sharp Cheddar for Bold Flavor
- Sharp or extra-sharp cheddar gives the soup a rich, tangy flavor.
- Stir the cheese in at the end of cooking (once the soup has cooled slightly) to avoid curdling.
4. Thicken the Soup Without Flour
- Mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the crockpot to create a thicker texture.
- You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) if you want a creamier consistency.
5. Add Depth of Flavor
- A splash of hot sauce or Dijon mustard enhances the cheese flavor without overpowering it.
- Stir in cooked bacon or ham for a smoky, savory twist.
Serving Tricks
1. Garnish for Extra Flavor and Texture
- Top with crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar, and chopped green onions.
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or black pepper adds a subtle kick.
2. Serve with Bread or Crackers
- Pair with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.
- Serve with butter crackers or pretzel sticks for extra crunch.
3. Create a Soup Bar
- Set up a soup bar with toppings like:
- Crumbled bacon
- Extra shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped chives
- Hot sauce
- Let guests customize their bowl!
4. Make It a Complete Meal
- Serve with a side salad (like Caesar or mixed greens) for balance.
- Add shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked sausage to turn it into a hearty meal.
5. Store and Reheat Properly
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat—avoid boiling to prevent the cheese from separating.
- For freezing, skip adding the cheese until reheating to maintain a creamy consistency.
Key Nutritional Highlights:
Rich in protein – Thanks to the cheddar cheese and broccoli.Good source of fiber – From the potatoes and broccoli.
Calcium boost – High due to the cheese and milk/cream content.
Moderate carbs – Mostly from the potatoes.