Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Introduction:

This Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving a warm, filling meal. The potatoes and broccoli combine with the rich, velvety cheddar cheese to create a deliciously satisfying soup. The best part is, it’s all made in the slow cooker, meaning you can set it and forget it while the flavors meld together to perfection. Ideal for family dinners or meal prepping, this soup is easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

• 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
• 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 1 cup milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and the onions turn translucent (about 3–4 minutes). This step adds extra flavor to the soup.

If you’re using fresh broccoli, cut the florets into bite-sized pieces.

2. Add Ingredients to Crock Pot:

Add the diced potatoes, sautéed onions and garlic, and broccoli florets into your slow cooker.

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, milk (or cream), and season with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.

3. Cook the Soup:

Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the broccoli is cooked through.

If you prefer a thicker soup, use a potato masher to gently mash some of the potatoes in the slow cooker about halfway through cooking, or blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender.

4. Add Cheese and Sour Cream:

Once the potatoes and broccoli are tender, add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it’s melted and fully incorporated into the soup.

If you’re adding sour cream, stir it in now to make the soup extra creamy.

5. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:

Taste the soup and add more salt, pepper, or other seasonings as desired. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your preferred consistency.

6. Serve:

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional shredded cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of paprika, or fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve with warm bread or crackers on the side.

Tips for Success:

• Thickening the Soup: If you like a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup directly in the crockpot. You can blend as much or as little as you like.
• Creaminess: For an extra creamy soup, use heavy cream instead of milk and add a bit of sour cream for richness.
• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and skip the sour cream if you want a lighter version.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding extra milk or broth if needed to reach your desired consistency.

Benefits of Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

• Rich in Nutrients: This soup is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals from the potatoes and broccoli. Broccoli provides a healthy dose of vitamin C and antioxidants, while potatoes offer potassium and a good source of carbohydrates for energy.
• Comforting and Filling: The combination of potatoes, cheese, and creamy broth makes this soup hearty and satisfying, perfect for a comforting meal.
• Easy to Make: Using a Crock Pot means minimal preparation and hands-off cooking time. Simply add the ingredients, let the slow cooker do its magic, and enjoy a delicious meal with little effort.

Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g

Conclusion:

This Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a perfect dish for cozy nights, busy weeknights, or meal prepping. It’s simple, full of flavor, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you make it for a family dinner or enjoy it as a comforting lunch, it’s a delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of potatoes, broccoli, and cheddar cheese. Enjoy!

Lovers of Comfort Food:

If you’re a lover of comforting, creamy soups, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your rotation. The slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to prepare, and the flavors meld together beautifully. Whether you’re a fan of broccoli, cheddar, or simply hearty, homemade soups, this dish will satisfy your cravings and keep you warm all season long!