Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food

When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm, hearty bowl of soup. Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect dish to satisfy your hunger and warm you up from the inside out. With its creamy texture, rich flavor, and the perfect blend of nutritious vegetables, this soup is not only a family favorite but also a foolproof recipe that delivers each time you make it. Whether you’re looking for an easy meal after a busy day or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this slow-cooked soup is bound to be a hit.

Why Choose Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

The slow cooker is one of the most convenient kitchen appliances, and when it comes to soups, it’s a game-changer. Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup combines everything we love about a comforting soup: the earthiness of potatoes, the nutritional benefits of broccoli, and the indulgence of rich cheddar cheese. By using a Crock Pot, the ingredients are infused with maximum flavor while you go about your day, making it an easy and effortless meal. The slow cooking process ensures that the vegetables become tender, and the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a velvety, creamy texture.

This particular soup is a healthier alternative to many creamy soups found in restaurants, as it’s made with real ingredients and can be customized to suit dietary preferences. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in more vegetables for kids or picky eaters who may not always enjoy their greens.

The Essential Ingredients for Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To make the best Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’ll need a few simple, yet flavorful ingredients. The following components combine to create the perfect balance of textures and flavors, resulting in a satisfying and wholesome dish.

For the Soup Base:

• 4-5 large russet potatoes – Potatoes are the heart of this soup, providing a creamy texture when cooked. Russet potatoes are ideal because they break down easily, adding body and thickness to the broth.
• 1 medium yellow onion – Onion adds savory depth and a touch of sweetness to the soup base.
• 3 cloves garlic – Garlic enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic qualities.
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth – A good-quality broth is essential for adding flavor to the soup without being too salty. You can choose chicken broth for a richer flavor or vegetable broth for a lighter version.
• 2 cups whole milk – Whole milk adds creaminess to the soup, ensuring a rich, velvety texture. You can substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative for a lighter or dairy-free version.
• 2 tbsp butter – Butter adds richness and depth of flavor, making the soup taste indulgent without being overwhelming.
• 1 tsp dried thyme – Thyme complements the earthy flavor of the potatoes and enhances the overall savory profile of the soup.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper – These are key to seasoning the soup to taste, balancing the flavors and enhancing the overall depth.

For the Broccoli and Cheese:

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets – Broccoli adds a vibrant green color, a pop of freshness, and essential nutrients to the soup. It also balances the creamy richness with its slight bitterness.
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – The cheese is what truly makes this soup irresistible. Sharp cheddar brings a tangy, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the potatoes and the earthiness of the broccoli.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional) – Flour can be used to thicken the soup if a thicker consistency is desired. This step is optional, depending on your texture preference.

How to Make Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Now that you know the key ingredients, let’s walk through the simple steps to create this delicious soup in your slow cooker. The process is easy and hands-off, making it a perfect recipe for busy days.

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

1. Peel and Dice the Potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into small cubes, about 1-inch in size. The smaller the pieces, the faster they’ll cook and break down into a creamy texture. No need to worry about perfect uniformity – the potatoes will soften as they cook.
2. Chop the Onion and Garlic: Finely chop the onion and garlic. These aromatics will add flavor and depth to the soup as they simmer with the potatoes.
3. Prepare the Broccoli: Cut the broccoli into small florets. You want the broccoli to be tender by the time the soup is done, but still vibrant and intact. If you prefer a smoother soup, feel free to chop the broccoli more finely.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients in the Crock Pot

1. Add the Vegetables: In your Crock Pot, combine the diced potatoes, chopped onion, garlic, and broccoli.
2. Pour in the Broth: Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the Crock Pot. Stir everything together to make sure the vegetables are evenly distributed.
3. Season the Soup: Add salt, pepper, and dried thyme to the mix. These seasonings will enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables and create a rich, savory base for the soup.
4. Add the Milk and Butter: Pour in the whole milk and add the butter. The milk will provide creaminess, while the butter will enrich the soup with a silky smooth finish.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

1. Set the Crock Pot: Cover the Crock Pot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This will give the potatoes plenty of time to break down, allowing the soup to thicken and the flavors to develop.
2. Check for Doneness: Once the potatoes are tender, check the texture of the soup. If you prefer a creamier consistency, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. If you want a thicker soup, add the optional flour, stirring it into the soup and letting it cook for another 30 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cheese and Broccoli

1. Add the Broccoli: Once the potatoes are soft, add the fresh broccoli florets to the soup. Cover and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes on low or until the broccoli is tender.
2. Stir in the Cheese: After the broccoli is cooked, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Let it melt completely, creating a creamy, cheesy broth.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as necessary. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or cheese, depending on your preference.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure each serving has a generous portion of potatoes, broccoli, and creamy cheddar broth. Serve with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping, and enjoy the comforting warmth of this delicious soup!

Why Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is Perfect for Any Occasion

Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the epitome of comfort food. Its creamy texture, hearty vegetables, and rich cheddar flavor make it the perfect meal for a cozy family dinner or a comforting lunch. The slow cooking process enhances the flavors, creating a soup that’s even better the next day. Plus, it’s an easy dish to make for a crowd, as it can be prepared in advance and served with minimal effort.

Additionally, this soup can be easily adapted to accommodate dietary preferences. For a dairy-free version, simply swap out the cheddar for a dairy-free cheese alternative and use coconut milk or almond milk instead of whole milk. Vegetarians can enjoy this soup by using vegetable broth, and for a lighter option, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or use low-fat milk. This versatility makes Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting, customizable meal.

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