Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

There is something undeniably comforting and soul-satisfying about a warm bowl of Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup on a chilly day. This recipe brings together tender Yukon gold potatoes, vibrant broccoli florets, and the rich, creamy melt of sharp cheddar cheese, all slowly cooked to perfection in a crockpot. The result is a luscious, hearty soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, making it a beloved go-to for family dinners or cozy nights in. Whether you’re craving something simple or looking to impress with minimal effort, this Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup fits the bill beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but essential to achieve that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Each one plays a crucial role in making this soup irresistibly creamy and comforting.

• 1 lb Yukon gold potatoes: Their buttery texture and creamy consistency make these potatoes ideal for soups.
• 1 head broccoli (cut into florets): Adds vibrant green color, nutrients, and a slight crunch that complements the smooth potatoes.
• 4 cups chicken broth: Provides a rich savory base that infuses the soup with flavor without overpowering it.
• 1 cup milk: Enhances creaminess and balances the flavors with a soft dairy note.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it brings depth and indulgence to the soup.
• 0.5 tsp salt: Just enough to enhance all the natural flavors.
• 0.25 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to round out the taste.

How to Make Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by peeling and chopping the Yukon gold potatoes into bite-sized pieces, which ensures they cook evenly and become tender in the crockpot. Then, cut the broccoli head into small florets that will stay tender but still hold their shape once cooked. Preparing these vegetables upfront makes the whole process smooth and easy.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Next, add the chopped potatoes, broccoli florets, chicken broth, and milk directly into the slow cooker. Season everything with salt and black pepper for an immediate burst of flavor. Give it a quick stir to mix all the ingredients evenly, setting yourself up for a perfectly flavored soup from start to finish.

Step 3: Slow Cook Until Tender

Set your crockpot on low and let it work its magic for 4 to 6 hours. This gentle cooking process allows the potatoes to soften beautifully and the broccoli to release its fresh, green flavor into the broth. The long, slow simmer blends flavors deeply without any fuss.

Step 4: Stir in the Cheddar Cheese

When the vegetables are fork-tender, it’s time to add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir it in slowly so it melts evenly and creates that signature creamy, velvety texture that makes this soup simply irresistible. The cheddar also adds a wonderful sharpness that lifts the dish to a new comfort food level.

Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy

Once the cheese has melted completely, your Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is ready to serve. Ladle it into bowls while it’s warm and get ready to indulge in pure comfort. This dish is satisfying on its own or elevated with your favorite toppings.

How to Serve Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Garnishes

Enhance your soup with garnishes like a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar, crispy bacon bits, or fresh chives for a pop of color and texture. A dollop of sour cream or a swirl of crème fraîche also adds a lovely creaminess that complements the cheddar without overpowering it.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread or warm dinner rolls that are perfect for dipping. For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or a simple grilled cheese sandwich to keep the comfort theme going strong.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, try serving the soup in hollowed-out mini bread bowls or small pumpkin shells. This not only looks stunning but keeps the Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup warm longer, adding an extra wow factor without extra effort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be comfortably stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, although the broccoli may soften a bit after thawing. To freeze, pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, giving you a convenient ready-made comfort meal whenever you want.

Reheating

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cheese from separating. Adding a splash of milk while reheating can help restore the soup’s creamy texture perfectly.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! To make the Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegetarian, simply swap chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’ll still get a deeply flavorful and satisfying soup without any meat products.

Is it possible to use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets, but reduce the cooking time slightly as frozen broccoli cooks faster. Also, frozen broccoli may make the soup a bit more watery, so adjust seasoning and texture as needed.

Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with another type?

Cheddar is ideal for its sharpness and melting quality, but you can try Monterey Jack or Gouda for a milder or smokier flavor. Just keep in mind the texture might change slightly.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

While peeling Yukon gold potatoes is traditional for a smoother texture, you can leave the skins on if you prefer more texture and extra nutrients. Just be sure to wash them thoroughly before chopping.

What if I don’t have a crockpot?

No crockpot? No problem! You can prepare this soup on the stovetop by simmering the ingredients over medium heat until the potatoes are tender, then adding the cheese at the end. It just requires a bit more attention, but the results are delicious.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly nothing like cozying up with a bowl of homemade Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup, especially when you know it’s made with simple ingredients and lots of love. This recipe is perfect for busy days, lazy weekends, or whenever you crave something warm, cheesy, and nourishing. Give it a try—you just might find your new favorite comfort dish that’s as easy as it is delicious.

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