Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
If you’ve ever wanted a cozy, comforting soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, you are in for a treat with this Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe. Picture tender broccoli mingling with creamy potatoes, all enveloped by a luscious cheddar cheese broth that’s perfectly thick and satisfying. What makes this recipe truly special is how effortlessly everything comes together in a slow cooker, allowing you to come home to a rich, flavorful, and velvety bowl of goodness. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for a fuss-free meal that feels homemade and hearty, this soup hits every note just right.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a key role in the depth of flavor, texture, and color of your Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe. From fresh broccoli for vibrant color to sharp cheddar cheese for that comforting tang, everything combines to create a balanced and satisfying dish.
- 6 cups broccoli florets (from 2 heads): Fresh broccoli adds a healthy crunch and a bright green color.
- 1 cup chopped onion: Provides a savory base and subtle sweetness when cooked.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Adds a natural sweetness and beautiful orange hue.
- 2 oz cream cheese: Ensures creamy richness and smooth texture throughout the soup.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Injects aromatic depth and a slight kick of savory flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Offers a cozy warmth that enhances the overall taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances flavors and enhances natural ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat for complexity.
- 1/3 cup cornstarch: Thickens the soup perfectly without heaviness.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Creates a flavorful, comforting liquid base.
- 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese: For that classic sharp, melty cheese flavor signature to this soup.
- 2 cups milk: Adds creaminess and light sweetness to balance the savory elements.
How to Make Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli and Vegetables
Start by roughly chopping your broccoli florets and placing them in the bottom of the crockpot. Then, add the chopped onion, shredded carrots, cream cheese, and minced garlic. This combination creates a flavorful vegetable base that will soften beautifully under slow cooking, setting the stage for a rich, hearty soup.
Step 2: Combine the Liquid Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, nutmeg, kosher salt, black pepper, and cornstarch until everything is smooth and well mixed. Pour this mixture over the vegetables in the crockpot and stir gently to combine. This step ensures that the cornstarch distributes evenly, helping the soup thicken perfectly as it cooks.
Step 3: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover your crockpot and cook on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours, or on LOW for 6 to 7 hours, until the broccoli is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender at this point to blend the mixture, leaving some chunks if you enjoy a bit of texture in your bowl.
Step 4: Add Milk and Cheddar Cheese
Once the broccoli and vegetables are perfectly tender, reduce the heat to LOW. Stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese, then continue to cook for an additional 30 minutes. This gentle finish allows the cheese to melt fully into the soup, giving it that signature luscious, cheesy taste without burning or separating.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Give your soup one final stir, then ladle it into bowls while it’s hot. This is the moment where the aromas and flavors come alive, inviting you to dig into this comforting classic that’s been slow-cooked to perfection.
How to Serve Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your soup adds an extra touch of flair and flavor. Consider topping each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives for a pop of color and mild oniony brightness, crumbled bacon for a smoky crunch, or a swirl of sour cream to amp up the creaminess and tang. These little details take this comforting soup to the next level.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or soft dinner rolls to sop up every last bit of cheesy broth. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast to the rich soup. For something heartier, a grilled cheese sandwich or roasted vegetables on the side will make this meal even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve the soup in hollowed-out mini bread bowls or rustic mason jars for a charming presentation. You can also layer it with a sprinkle of extra cheddar and a dash of paprika right before serving to create a vibrant, inviting look that’ll have everyone rushing to the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers — which is very likely because this soup is so delicious — store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy the comforting flavors even on busy days when you need a quick meal.
Freezing
This Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe freezes beautifully. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, making it an excellent option for meal prep or stocking your freezer with comfort food that’s ready whenever you are.
Reheating
For reheating, thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge and then warm it gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring frequently. If the soup thickens too much during storage, simply add a splash of milk or broth to bring back the perfect creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Absolutely! Vegetable broth is a great substitute that keeps the soup vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing flavor. Just choose a good-quality broth with a sturdy flavor to keep that rich base.
Is it possible to make this soup in a regular pot instead of a crockpot?
Yes! You can make this soup on the stovetop by simmering the ingredients until tender, but the slow cooker does a fantastic job melding the flavors and requires much less hands-on time.
How do I make the soup thicker or thinner?
If you want a thicker soup, add a bit more cornstarch next time or simmer it uncovered for a little longer. To thin it out, stir in extra broth or milk gradually until the desired consistency is reached.
Can I add potatoes to this Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe?
Definitely! Adding diced potatoes will give the soup extra heartiness and creamy texture. Be sure to cut them into small pieces so they cook fully along with the other vegetables.
What can I use if I don’t have an immersion blender?
If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer portions of the soup to a standard blender to puree and then return it to the crockpot. Just be cautious with the hot liquid to avoid splashes.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels like a warm, satisfying hug from the inside out. It’s simple to prepare, bursting with comforting flavors, and versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this soup promises to become a cherished favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
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Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A creamy, comforting Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup that combines tender broccoli, shredded carrots, and sharp cheddar cheese in a flavorful broth. Slow-cooked to perfection, this soup is easy to prepare and perfect for a hearty meal any day.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Cheese
- 6 cups broccoli florets (from 2 heads)
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 oz cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
Spices and Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Liquids and Thickener
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli: Roughly chop the broccoli florets and place them in the bottom of the crockpot. Add the chopped onion, shredded carrots, cream cheese, and minced garlic to the crockpot, distributing evenly.
- Combine Liquids: In a large bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, nutmeg, kosher salt, black pepper, and cornstarch until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Pour this liquid mixture over the vegetables in the crockpot and stir gently to combine everything evenly.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on HIGH for 2-3 hours or on LOW for 6-7 hours, until the broccoli is tender. To achieve a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup carefully, leaving some chunks if you prefer a bit of texture.
- Add Milk and Cheese: Reduce the heat setting on the crockpot to LOW. Add the milk and shredded cheddar cheese to the soup, stirring well. Continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes or until the cheese has fully melted and the soup is heated through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Give the soup a final stir to mix everything well, then ladle into bowls and serve hot for a warming and delicious meal.
Notes
- You can adjust the consistency by adding more or less chicken broth or milk depending on your preference.
- Using an immersion blender allows you to control the texture, keeping some broccoli chunks for added bite.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- The soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and freezes nicely for up to 2 months.
- Add crispy bacon or croutons as garnish for extra flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
