Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a dish that’s rich, filling, and downright comforting. The creamy texture, tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and the sharp tang of cheddar make this a satisfying meal that’s perfect for the whole family. Best of all, it’s made in a crockpot, meaning you can toss the ingredients in and let it cook while you take care of other things. Whether you’re prepping for a cold evening or want an easy weeknight dinner, this soup has you covered.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
A Hearty, Comforting Meal for Cold Days
Nothing beats a warm, hearty soup on a chilly day, and this Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect way to chase away the cold. The potatoes offer a creamy texture, the broccoli brings in freshness, and the cheddar cheese adds that irresistible richness. Whether you’re enjoying it by the fire or curling up on the couch with a cozy blanket, this soup is the epitome of comfort food.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
One of the best things about this recipe is how little effort it requires. You simply toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker, turn it on, and let it do the work. No need to stand by the stove stirring for hours – you can run errands, get some work done, or even relax while your soup cooks to perfection.
Healthy and Nutritious
Broccoli is packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, while potatoes are a good source of potassium and fiber. Even though the soup contains cheese, the overall dish offers a good balance of nutrients, including calcium from the cheddar. If you’re looking for a way to sneak more veggies into your diet, this soup makes it easy and delicious.
Easy to Make in the Crockpot
The crockpot, or slow cooker, is a fantastic tool for making soups like this one. It takes the guesswork out of cooking and enhances the flavors as the ingredients slowly meld together. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to slow cooking, this recipe is foolproof and yields incredible results every time.
Ingredients for Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Let’s discuss what you’ll need to prepare this tasty soup. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, but choosing the right ones can make a big difference in taste and texture.
Choosing the Right Potatoes
Potatoes are a key component in this soup, and their starchiness gives it a velvety texture. But not all potatoes are created equal when it comes to soup.
Russet vs. Yukon Gold: Which is Better?
Russet potatoes are often the go-to choice for creamy soups because of their high starch content. They break down beautifully during cooking, resulting in a smooth, thick texture. On the other hand, Yukon Gold potatoes are slightly less starchy but have a buttery flavor that can elevate the richness of the soup. Either option works, but if you want a thicker consistency, go with russets. If you prefer a more delicate flavor, Yukon Golds are a great choice.
Fresh vs. Frozen Broccoli
For the broccoli component, you can use either fresh or frozen broccoli. Both options work well, but fresh broccoli will give you a slightly better texture, while frozen broccoli is more convenient and cooks faster. If using frozen, you don’t need to thaw it – just toss it straight into the crockpot.
The Best Type of Cheddar Cheese to Use
Cheddar cheese is the star ingredient in this soup, adding richness and a sharp, tangy flavor. Choosing the right cheddar can take your soup from good to great.
Sharp vs. Mild Cheddar
If you love bold flavors, opt for sharp cheddar cheese. It brings a more pronounced cheesy taste that pairs beautifully with the broccoli and potatoes. If you prefer a milder flavor, stick with mild cheddar, which melts smoothly and blends more subtly into the soup. You can also mix the two to get the best of both worlds.
Adding Aromatics (Garlic, Onions, etc.)
Aromatics like garlic and onions are essential for adding depth of flavor to the soup. While you can simply chop them and throw them into the crockpot, sautéing them in a bit of butter or olive oil beforehand will intensify their flavor, giving the soup a richer, more complex taste.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
For those looking to add an extra layer of indulgence, consider stirring in some crispy bacon or a dollop of sour cream. You can also add cream cheese for an even creamier texture.
Bacon, Sour Cream, or Cream Cheese
Bacon gives the soup a smoky, savory kick, while sour cream adds a touch of tanginess. Cream cheese, on the other hand, creates an ultra-luxurious consistency. You can add one or all of these depending on your taste preference!
How to Make Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This recipe is incredibly simple, but following the right steps will ensure your soup turns out creamy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Vegetables
Start by peeling and chopping your potatoes into small, evenly sized cubes. This ensures they cook evenly and break down properly. Next, chop your broccoli into florets, and finely mince your garlic and onions if you haven’t already sautéed them.
Setting Up the Crockpot
Once your vegetables are prepped, add the potatoes, broccoli, garlic, onions, and broth into the crockpot. Make sure everything is well-submerged in the liquid, as this will help the potatoes break down and become creamy.
Blending for a Smooth Texture
After the soup has cooked for several hours and the potatoes are fork-tender, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse the blender a few times until you’re happy with the consistency. For a smooth, velvety soup, blend longer. If you don’t have an immersion blender, gently transfer the soup to a blender in batches, blending carefully each time.
Adding the Cheese at the Right Time
Once the soup is blended, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Be sure to do this after the soup has been pureed, as adding cheese too early can cause it to separate or become grainy.
Cooking Time and Temperature
For this soup, cooking on low for 6-8 hours will give you the best results, as the slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully. However, if you’re short on time, cooking on high for 3-4 hours will also work well.
Tips for the Perfect Crockpot Soup
How to Prevent Cheesy Soups from Becoming Grainy
One of the biggest challenges with cheesy soups is preventing the cheese from curdling or becoming grainy. To avoid this, make sure you add the cheese at the very end of the cooking process, after the soup has been pureed and slightly cooled. If the soup is too hot, the fats in the cheese can separate, resulting in a grainy texture.
Adjusting the Thickness of the Soup
How to Thicken the Soup with a Slurry
If your soup is too thin, don’t worry – it’s easy to fix. Simply whisk together a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water, then slowly stir it into the soup. Let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until it thickens.
How to Thin the Soup if It’s Too Thick
If your soup is thicker than you’d like, you can easily thin it out by adding more broth or milk. Stir in a little at a time until the soup reaches your preferred consistency.
Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips
This soup is ideal for meal prepping and freezing. Once the soup is fully cooked, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Variations of Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Loaded Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
For a heartier, more indulgent version of this soup, try adding toppings that mimic a loaded baked potato.
Adding Bacon and Sour Cream
Stir in crispy bacon bits and a spoonful of sour cream just before serving for an extra savory and tangy twist. You can also top each bowl with additional shredded cheese and green onions for that full loaded potato effect.
Vegetarian and Vegan Modifications
This soup can easily be made vegetarian or even vegan with a few simple swaps.
Dairy-Free Cheese and Milk Alternatives
To make a vegan version, use plant-based cheese and swap out the dairy milk for almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk. You can also use vegan butter to sauté the aromatics, if desired.
Spicy Cheddar Soup with Jalapeños
If you like a little heat in your food, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup. The spiciness pairs surprisingly well with the creamy cheese and potatoes, adding a kick that spice lovers will appreciate.
Serving Suggestions
Best Toppings for Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Croutons, Bacon, and Green Onions
Adding toppings like crunchy croutons, crispy bacon, and finely chopped green onions takes this soup to the next level. These toppings add texture and additional flavor, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Pairing with Bread and Side Dishes
Crusty Bread, Salad, or Grilled Cheese
This soup is delicious on its own, but pairing it with a side dish makes for a more complete meal. A slice of crusty bread or a soft dinner roll is perfect for dipping, while a fresh green salad adds a light, refreshing contrast. For an extra indulgent meal, serve the soup alongside a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic comfort food combo.
Common Questions About Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Potatoes?
Yes! If you have leftover cooked potatoes, you can use them in this recipe. Just reduce the cooking time, as the potatoes will only need to warm through rather than cook from raw.
Is it possible to cook this soup on the stove instead?
Absolutely. To make this soup on the stove, follow the same steps for preparing the vegetables, then cook everything in a large pot over medium heat. Once the potatoes are tender, blend the soup, stir in the cheese, and serve.
How long will this soup stay fresh in the fridge?
When kept in an airtight container, this soup stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s perfect for making ahead of time and reheating for a quick meal.
Can I Freeze Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes beautifully. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. You can stash it in the freezer, where it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Information
Calories and Macros
A typical serving of this soup contains around 300-400 calories, depending on portion size and added ingredients like bacon or sour cream. It’s a filling meal that provides a good balance of carbs, fat, and protein, thanks to the potatoes, cheese, and broccoli.
Health Benefits of Broccoli and Potatoes
Broccoli is packed with vitamins like C and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants that promote health and wellness. Potatoes, particularly when prepared with the skin, are a great source of potassium and provide a steady energy source thanks to their complex carbohydrates.
How to Reduce the Calories
Low-Fat Cheese and Milk Alternatives
To lighten up this soup, you can use low-fat or fat-free cheddar cheese and swap out full-fat milk for skim milk or an unsweetened dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk.
Final Thoughts on Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
A Comforting Meal the Whole Family Will Love
This Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect cozy comfort food. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, yet easy enough to throw together in the crockpot with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it for dinner on a cold night or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.
Perfect for Meal Prepping or Freezing
If you love having ready-to-eat meals on hand, this soup is perfect for freezing. Make a big batch, divide it into portions, and freeze for future meals. It’s a great way to ensure you always have something comforting and delicious at the ready.
FAQ: Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
What Size Crockpot Should I Use?
A 6-quart crockpot is ideal for this recipe, but you can adjust the quantities to fit a smaller or larger crockpot if needed.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Soup?
Yes! Feel free to add extra veggies like carrots, cauliflower, or spinach. Make sure to tweak the cooking time to perfectly match your dish’s needs.
How Do I Prevent the Cheese from Curdling?
To prevent curdling, make sure you add the cheese at the very end, once the soup has been blended and slightly cooled. Stir it in gradually and avoid cooking the soup on high heat after adding the cheese.