Creamy Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Imagine coming home to the comforting aroma of a creamy, cheesy soup simmering away in your crockpot. This Creamy Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a hearty, satisfying dish perfect for chilly days or whenever you’re craving something warm and nourishing.

Made with wholesome ingredients like fresh broccoli, tender potatoes, and real cheddar cheese, this soup is the definition of comfort food done right.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Cooking: Your crockpot does all the work! Just a few minutes of prep, and you’re free to enjoy your day.

Family Favorite: The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make this soup irresistible to kids and adults alike.

Nutritious & Filling: Packed with fresh vegetables, protein, and fiber, this soup is as nourishing as it is delicious.

Versatile: Customize it to your taste with additional toppings or spices. Plus, it’s great for meal prep and reheats beautifully.

• Save

Ingredients and Their Health Benefits

Main Ingredients:

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled and cubed): Rich in potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, these potatoes provide a creamy texture.
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets: A powerhouse of nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants, broccoli supports immune health and detoxification.
• 1 large yellow onion (diced): Adds depth of flavor and is rich in antioxidants and sulfur compounds for heart health.
• 2 carrots (diced): Provide a natural sweetness and are loaded with beta-carotene, which supports eye health.
• 2 celery stalks (diced): Low in calories and high in fiber, celery adds crunch and helps with digestion.
• 4 cloves garlic (minced): Known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
• 6 cups chicken broth: Adds richness and protein while being an excellent source of minerals.

Creamy and Cheesy Additions:

• 2 cups heavy cream: Provides the rich, creamy base while delivering calcium and healthy fats.
• 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated): A great source of protein and calcium that gives the soup its signature cheesy flavor.

Seasonings:

• 2 teaspoons dried thyme: A fragrant herb that enhances the soup’s savory profile and provides antioxidants.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Amplifies the flavor of fresh garlic for a more robust taste.
• Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.

Optional Garnishes:

• Extra shredded cheddar: Adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness.
• Chopped chives or green onions: Brightens the dish and provides a fresh, mild onion flavor.
• Croutons (optional): Adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Peel and cube the potatoes. Dice the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic.
2. Assemble in Crockpot:
   • Place the potatoes, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, dried thyme, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper in the crockpot. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the vegetables are just covered.
3. Cook:
   • Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the Broccoli:
   • During the last hour of cooking, add the broccoli florets.
5. In the Final 30 Minutes:
   • Stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to blend with the soup.
   • Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring well after each addition to prevent clumping.
6. Season and Serve:
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese, chopped chives, and croutons if desired.

Tips for Success

Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. Grating your own ensures a creamier soup.

Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Adding the broccoli in the last hour ensures it stays vibrant and doesn’t turn mushy.

Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup before adding the broccoli.

Keep Cheese from Separating: Add the cheese at the end and stir gently to maintain a smooth consistency.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freeze: This soup freezes well for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat: Warm the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cheese from separating.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is everything you need for a cozy, satisfying meal. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold winter evening or making it as part of a meal-prep routine, this soup is sure to delight.

Its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and nutrient-packed ingredients make it a recipe you’ll return to time and time again. Gather your ingredients, set up your crockpot, and let this delicious soup cook itself into your heart!