The aroma of simmering vegetables and cheese wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace on a chilly day. My Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup has become a go-to delight in our home for its creamy richness and family-friendly charm. With just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients, this comforting soup transforms busy weekdays into cozy culinary moments without the fuss. Perfect for those looking to stray away from fast food, it effortlessly blends nutritious broccoli and creamy cheddar into a soul-warming meal. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, making it an ideal make-ahead option for when life gets hectic. Curious about how to make this cozy classic your own? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Why This Soup Will Become Your Favorite?
Comforting and Creamy: This Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup delivers a velvety texture that comforts on chilly nights, making it the perfect companion to your favorite cozy throw.
Effortless Preparation: With minimal prep and a slow cooker doing the work, you can spend time on other things while still serving a delicious home-cooked meal.
Family-Friendly Flavor: Packed with nutritious broccoli and melted cheddar, this soup is a hit for both kids and adults alike, making mealtime stress-free and enjoyable.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to customize it as you like! Try adding cooked chicken for extra protein or swap broccoli for cauliflower for a new twist.
Freezer-Friendly Delight: Make a big batch and freeze portions for those busy days when you need a warm meal on the fly, similar to my Cheesy Potato Soup recipes that save the day!
Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup Ingredients
Here’s what you need to create this comforting dish:
For the Soup Base
- Broccoli Florets – Provides a nutritious and vibrant base; fresh or frozen works well.
- Chopped Onion – Adds depth and flavor; yellow onion is common, but feel free to use red or shallots instead.
- Shredded Carrots – Infuses natural sweetness and color; pre-shredded options save time.
- Minced Garlic – Complements the soup with aromatic depth; fresh garlic enhances flavor significantly.
- Chicken Broth – Creates the soup’s base; swap for vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian.
For Creaminess and Flavor
- Cream Cheese – Contributes to the rich, creamy texture; mascarpone is a great substitute for something different.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Provides the signature cheesy flavor; mixing in Monterey Jack adds a twist.
- Milk – Enhances the creaminess of the soup; almond milk or non-dairy alternatives are good lower-calorie options.
For Thicker Consistency
- Cornstarch – Serves as a thickening agent to achieve that hearty consistency; can be replaced with flour or arrowroot starch for gluten-free options.
- Nutmeg – A subtle spice that elevates creaminess; use sparingly for the best flavor.
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to adjust according to your taste.
Now you’re all set with the ingredients for this delightful Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup! Let’s bring this heartwarming recipe to life.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Begin by chopping fresh broccoli florets and place them at the bottom of your slow cooker. This serves as the nutritious foundation for your Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Adding the florets first allows them to steam thoroughly and infuse the soup with their vibrant flavor, setting the tone for the entire dish.
Step 2: Layer the Vegetables
Next, sprinkle the shredded carrots and chopped onion over the broccoli in the slow cooker. Add in the minced garlic as well, ensuring you create a colorful and flavorful layer of vegetables. The onions will soften and sweeten during cooking, adding depth and warmth to the soup’s overall profile.
Step 3: Combine Broth and Seasonings
In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, cornstarch, nutmeg, kosher salt, and black pepper until smooth. This mixture will thicken your Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup and enhance its creaminess. Once combined, pour the broth mixture over the layered vegetables in the slow cooker, ensuring an even distribution, and give it a gentle stir.
Step 4: Cooking Time
Cover the slow cooker and set it to HIGH for 2-3 hours, or LOW for 6-7 hours. During this time, the broccoli will become tender and all the flavors will meld beautifully. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as you’ll want the broccoli to be perfectly cooked yet still vibrantly green.
Step 5: Finish the Soup
Once the vegetables are tender, switch the slow cooker to LOW, and stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. This is what transforms your Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup into a creamy, cheesy delight. Cook for an additional 30 minutes, stirring regularly until the cheese melts completely, creating a rich and velvety consistency.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
After everything is well combined and creamy, ladle the warm Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup into bowls. Add a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper if desired, and serve it with crusty bread on the side. The inviting aroma of your hearty soup will be the highlight of your cozy meal!
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the broccoli, onions, and carrots up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can mix the broth with cornstarch and seasonings, allowing you to simply pour this mixture over the vegetables in the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook. To prevent browning, cover the prepped vegetables tightly. When you’re ready to enjoy your comforting soup, add everything to your slow cooker, set it, and let it do the work for you. Just stir in the milk and cheese at the end for a creamy finish that is just as delicious!
Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you experiment with these delightful twists on the classic recipe!
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Cauliflower Swap: Replace broccoli with cauliflower for a subtly different flavor and creamy texture that surprises the palate. Both veggies create a similar comforting base, ensuring the cheese remains the star of the show.
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Protein-Packed Addition: Toss in shredded cooked chicken or diced ham for an extra protein boost that makes this soup even heartier and satisfying, perfect for a filling lunch or dinner.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to bring a delightful warmth that perfectly complements the creaminess of the soup. A touch of heat can turn this cozy dish into a comforting adventure.
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Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, added during the last hour of cooking to infuse your soup with a fresh, aromatic profile that elevates the whole dish.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute the cream cheese with cashew cream or a non-dairy yogurt alternative for a dairy-free version, keeping all the creaminess while accommodating dairy sensitivities.
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Cheese Variety: Experiment by blending in different cheeses like Gruyère or Gouda along with the cheddar for a deeper flavor profile and an elegant twist to your Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
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Extra Veggies: What about some added greens? Stir in baby spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a nutritional boost and a vibrant splash of color.
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Smoky Touch: Add some smoked paprika to your broth for a hint of smokiness that will elevate the flavors, giving you a delightful depth that’s reminiscent of a hearty, rustic meal.
Craving more comforting soup goodness? Try out my Cheesy Mashed Potato or the wholesome Cheesy Potato Soup for more nourishing options!
What to Serve with Creamy Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
The warmth of a hearty soup calls for delightful companions to make your meal even more special.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, the crispy exterior and soft center provide a fantastic texture contrast to the creamy soup.
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Garden Salad: A fresh, lightly dressed salad with crisp greens and colorful veggies adds a refreshing crunch that balances the rich flavors of the soup.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The gooeyness of melted cheese between two crisp, buttery slices complements the cheesy nature of the soup exceptionally well.
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Roasted Garlic Bread: The aromatic and savory notes from roasted garlic provide a fragrant addition, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.
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Crispy Bacon Bits: Sprinkling some crispy bacon on top adds a smoky crunch, creating a delightful contrast to the soup’s creamy goodness.
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Apple Crisp: A warm, cinnamon-spiced dessert after your comforting soup will sweeten up your meal, leaving everyone satisfied and cozy.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: This fizzy drink adds a touch of festivity and pairs beautifully with the creamy soup’s flavors, making it a delightful beverage choice.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing and slightly tart, these drinks cleanse your palate and enhance the overall dining experience.
How to Store and Freeze Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze portions of the Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Leave space for expansion when freezing.
Thawing: Thaw the soup overnight in the fridge before reheating. If in a hurry, use the microwave on a low setting or place the container in a bowl of warm water.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to regain the creamy texture.
Expert Tips for Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Smoother Texture: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency while leaving some chunks for added texture.
Salt Adjustment: If your chicken broth is heavily salted, taste before adding more kosher salt, as adjusting seasoning is key for delicious Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and vegetables to elevate the flavors; pre-minced garlic and wilted veggies can dull the soup’s taste.
Thickening Tips: For an even creamier consistency, consider adding a splash more milk or an extra dollop of cream cheese towards the end of cooking.
Variations Galore: Feel free to swap in veggie favorites or add proteins, like chicken or leftover ham, to make this soup your own masterpiece!
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Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of broccoli should I use?
Absolutely! You can use either fresh or frozen broccoli florets for this soup. Fresh broccoli gives a vibrant taste and texture, while frozen broccoli is a great time-saver. Just make sure the florets are bright green and without any dark spots for the best flavor.
How should I store leftover soup?
Very! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to make a big batch, this soup is freezer-friendly as well!
Can I freeze Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Yes, you can! Portion the cooled soup into airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving room for expansion, and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you are ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk if necessary to restore creaminess.
What if my soup is too thick after cooking?
No worries! If your soup turns out thicker than you’d like, simply stir in a little warm broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency. A splash at a time is best, so you can control the thickness easily.
Are there any dietary considerations for this soup?
I recommend it! For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily make this soup vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and for a gluten-free option, replace cornstarch with arrowroot starch or gluten-free flour. Be mindful of allergies to dairy; substitutes like almond or oat milk can keep the creamy texture while accommodating those needs.
Can I add other vegetables or proteins?
Absolutely! This recipe is fantastic for customization. If you want to add cooked chicken, ham, or different veggies like carrots or cauliflower, it will only enhance the flavor. Feel free to experiment!
Creamy Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by chopping fresh broccoli florets and place them at the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Next, sprinkle the shredded carrots and chopped onion over the broccoli in the slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, cornstarch, nutmeg, kosher salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to HIGH for 2-3 hours, or LOW for 6-7 hours.
- Once the vegetables are tender, switch the slow cooker to LOW, and stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese.
- After everything is well combined and creamy, ladle the warm soup into bowls and serve.
