The Ultimate Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe: Creamy Comfort in Every Spoonful
When the days grow chilly or you’re craving something cozy and indulgent, Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the answer. This creamy, cheesy, and hearty soup combines tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese for a soul-warming meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, looking for a simple lunch, or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe has you covered.
Let’s dive into why this soup is a must-try and how you can create the perfect bowl of comfort food right at home.
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Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavor
Each ingredient in this recipe serves a unique purpose to create a dish that’s rich, balanced, and flavorful.
1. Russet Potatoes (4-5 medium, peeled and diced): The starchy base that makes the soup creamy and hearty.
2. Broccoli Florets (3 cups, chopped): Adds a pop of color, nutrients, and a slightly earthy flavor to balance the richness.
3. Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Sharp cheddar melts beautifully, giving the soup its signature cheesy goodness.
4. Carrots (2, diced): A subtle sweetness that complements the broccoli and cheese.
5. Yellow Onion (1, finely chopped): Adds depth of flavor and aroma as it cooks.
6. Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Enhances the savory profile of the soup.
7. Chicken or Vegetable Broth (4 cups): The liquid base that ties all the ingredients together.
8. Heavy Cream (1 cup): For a velvety, luxurious texture.
9. Butter (2 tablespoons): Sautéing the aromatics in butter adds richness.
10. All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons): Helps thicken the soup to the perfect consistency.
11. Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that bring out the flavors.
12. Optional Garnishes: Chopped green onions, extra shredded cheese, or crispy bacon bits for added flair.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a restaurant-quality soup right in your kitchen.
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Chop the broccoli florets and carrots, and finely chop the onion.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
3. Combine in the Crock Pot:
Add the potatoes, broccoli, carrots, sautéed onion and garlic, and broth to your Crock Pot. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook Low and Slow:
Set the Crock Pot to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
5. Blend for Creaminess (Optional):
For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup directly in the Crock Pot. Alternatively, transfer some soup to a blender, process until smooth, and return it to the pot.
6. Create the Cheese Sauce:
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add the heavy cream, whisking constantly until thickened. Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted.
7. Combine and Serve:
Pour the cheese sauce into the Crock Pot and stir to combine. Let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Effortless: With the Crock Pot doing most of the work, you can set it and forget it.
Versatile: Perfect as a main course or served alongside sandwiches or salads.
Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of cheese, potatoes, and broccoli is universally loved.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Results
1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese provide the best flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Add it halfway through the cooking process if you prefer a firmer texture.
3. Blend for Your Desired Texture: Leave it chunky for a rustic feel or blend it smooth for a creamy finish.
4. Reheat Gently: Warm leftovers on the stovetop over low heat to maintain the soup’s texture.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair this rich and hearty soup with:
Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up the creamy broth.
Side Salad: A fresh, tangy salad balances the soup’s richness.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic combo that’s always a hit.
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Conclusion: Comfort Food at Its Finest
This Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is everything you want in a cozy meal—rich, creamy, cheesy, and packed with wholesome ingredients. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve guests. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and
again.
Ready to make your kitchen smell amazing? Gather your ingredients and get started today! Your family and taste buds will thank you.
