Nothing says comfort like a warm bowl of Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup. With a balance of hearty potatoes, fresh broccoli, and rich cheddar, this slow cooker soup is the perfect cozy meal to enjoy on a chilly day. This recipe is easy to follow, packed with flavor, and sure to be a family favorite.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
To make this flavorful soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 handful of celery, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2.5 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 cup milk
- 2 potatoes, cubed
- 4 cups broccoli florets, cut into small pieces
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions for Perfect Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Follow these steps for a creamy, savory soup that’s packed with veggies and cheese:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Chop the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic in a food processor or by hand.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tbsp of butter. Add the chopped vegetables and sauté for 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
Step 3: Add Flour and Seasoning
- Sprinkle in 2 tbsp of flour along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables, which helps thicken the soup as it cooks.
Step 4: Add Broth, Milk, and Potatoes
- Pour in the chicken broth and milk, then add the cubed potatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes to allow the potatoes to soften.
Step 5: Add Broccoli and Parmesan Cheese
- Stir in the broccoli florets and 1 tbsp of Parmesan cheese. Let the soup cook for another 5 minutes, until the broccoli becomes tender.
Step 6: Add Cheddar Cheese
- Finally, add 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese and stir well until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Remove the pot from heat.
Step 7: Blend for a Creamy Texture
- Take about 2 cups of soup and blend it in a blender or food processor until smooth. Pour it back into the pot for a thick and creamy texture.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with extra cheese or a sprinkle of black pepper, and enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
Tips for the Best Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add an extra tablespoon of flour or reduce the amount of chicken broth.
- Make it Vegetarian: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make this a vegetarian-friendly soup.
- Add Extra Veggies: For added nutrition, consider adding spinach or cauliflower to the soup.
- Storage and Reheating: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it’s too thick.
With its creamy texture and flavorful vegetables, this Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is sure to satisfy your cravings. Perfect for a cozy meal, it’s a simple, delicious way to enjoy comforting homemade soup.