Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

This Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food — rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. The combination of hearty potatoes, fresh broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese makes it a satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly days. Best of all, this soup is made easy in the slow cooker, allowing the ingredients to meld together over time for an even more delicious result.

Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy and comforting dish that combines the wholesome goodness of potatoes and broccoli with the rich, savory flavor of cheddar cheese. The slow cooker makes this recipe incredibly convenient, allowing you to set it and forget it while it simmers to perfection. The result is a luscious, hearty soup that’s perfect for cozy nights at home or as a starter for your next family dinner.

This recipe can be customized to suit various dietary preferences and can even be made a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor. It’s a versatile dish that’s sure to please kids and adults alike, and it works wonderfully as a make-ahead meal, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Preparation Steps

Before you begin cooking, here are the simple preparation steps to get the ingredients ready for the slow cooker. These steps will ensure the soup turns out smooth and flavorful.

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel and Dice the Potatoes: Peel the russet potatoes and cut them into evenly sized cubes (about 1/2 to 1-inch pieces). This ensures that they cook evenly in the slow cooker.
2. Optional Step: To help prevent the potatoes from browning, you can soak them in water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the crockpot. Drain well before using.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

1. Chop the Broccoli: Cut the fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets. You can also chop the stems into small pieces if you prefer to use them.
2. Set Aside: The broccoli will be added later during the cooking process to preserve its texture and color.

Step 3: Prepare the Onion and Garlic

1. Chop the Onion: Finely chop the onion into small pieces.
2. Mince the Garlic: Mince the garlic cloves to infuse the soup with their aromatic flavor.

Step 4: Make the Cornstarch Slurry (Optional)

1. Prepare the Slurry: If you like your soup to have a thicker consistency, mix the cornstarch with 1/4 cup of cold water in a small bowl. Stir well until smooth, and set aside. This will be added later to help thicken the soup.

Crockpot Cooking Instructions

Now that you have everything prepared, it’s time to cook the soup in the crockpot. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect texture and flavor:

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients in the Crockpot

1. Add the Potatoes: Place the diced potatoes at the bottom of the crockpot.
2. Add the Onion and Garlic: Sprinkle the chopped onions and minced garlic over the potatoes.
3. Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian version). This will form the base of the soup.
4. Season the Soup: Add the dried thyme (if using), salt, and pepper to the crockpot. Drop in the bay leaf if you’re using it.
5. Stir and Cover: Stir to combine the ingredients, cover the crockpot with the lid, and set the slow cooker to cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Step 2: Add the Broccoli and Cream

1. Add the Broccoli: About 30 minutes before the soup is done, add the chopped broccoli to the crockpot. This will help the broccoli retain its texture and color while ensuring it’s cooked through.
2. Add the Dairy: Once the potatoes are tender and the broth is flavorful, add the milk, heavy cream, and butter (if using) to the crockpot. Stir well to combine and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes on low.

Step 3: Thicken the Soup (Optional)

1. Cornstarch Slurry: If you prefer a thicker soup, stir the cornstarch slurry into the soup at this point. Let the soup cook for an additional 15–20 minutes to allow the slurry to thicken the liquid.
2. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed with more salt or pepper, if desired.

Step 4: Add the Cheddar Cheese

1. Stir in the Cheese: Once the soup has finished cooking, turn the heat to low and slowly stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Add it in small batches, ensuring it melts smoothly into the soup.
2. Melt and Blend: Continue stirring until all the cheese has melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the Bay Leaf: If you used a bay leaf, remove it from the soup.
2. Serve: Ladle the hot, creamy potato broccoli cheddar soup into bowls and enjoy! Optionally, garnish with extra shredded cheddar, a dollop of sour cream, or some freshly chopped parsley for added flavor and color.

Stovetop Instructions (Optional)

If you don’t have a crockpot or want to speed up the process, you can make this soup on the stovetop. Here’s how:

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a little olive oil or butter.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

1. Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine.
2. Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) and bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Cook the potatoes for about 20–25 minutes or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 3: Add the Cream and Broccoli

1. Once the potatoes are tender, add the broccoli, milk, heavy cream, and any seasonings.
2. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 10–15 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the soup is heated through.

Step 4: Add the Cheese and Serve

1. Once the soup is done, reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts smoothly into the soup.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, then serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Serving Suggestions

This Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a satisfying meal on its own, but it can be even more enjoyable when served with complementary sides. Here are some ideas for pairing:

• Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with a thick slice of warm, crusty bread, such as sourdough or a baguette, for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: A side of buttery garlic bread pairs beautifully with the creamy soup.
• Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the soup. Try a simple mixed greens salad with lemon dressing.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For the ultimate comfort meal, serve the soup alongside a grilled cheese sandwich. The crispy, cheesy bread complements the creamy soup perfectly.

Variations and Customizations

This potato broccoli cheddar soup recipe is highly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your preferences. Here are some variations you can try:

Add Protein:

• Chicken: Add cooked shredded chicken or rotisserie chicken for a heartier, protein-packed version.
• Bacon: Top the soup with crispy bacon bits or mix them into the soup for a smoky flavor.

Vegan or Dairy-Free Version:

• Vegan Cheese: Use plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast to give the soup a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
• Coconut Milk: Replace the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• Vegetable Broth: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegan.

Extra Veggies:

• Carrots: Add diced carrots for extra color and sweetness.
• Cauliflower: For an added veggie boost, cauliflower can be used in place of some of the potatoes or in addition to them.
• Leeks: Swap the onion with leeks for a mild, sweet onion flavor.

Tips for Perfect Soup

• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: If you’re using a slow cooker, make sure the potatoes are tender but not mushy. Check them in the last hour of cooking to avoid overcooking.
• Use Fresh Cheese: For the best melt and flavor, shred your cheese fresh. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the soup.
• Avoid Boiling: After adding the cheese, avoid boiling the soup, as it can cause the cheese to become grainy.
• Blend for Smoothness: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender or transfer part of the soup to a blender to purée it before adding the broccoli and cheese.

Freezing:

• Freezing: If you want to freeze the soup, place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space for the soup to expand as it freezes.
• Reheating from Frozen: Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add extra liquid as needed.

Freezing Instructions

This soup can be frozen and enjoyed later. Here’s how:

• Cool Completely: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
• Freezing: Label and date the container, then place it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of cream or broth to adjust the consistency.

Healthier Version of Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

If you’re looking to make a lighter version of this soup, here are some swaps you can try:

• Use 2% Milk: Instead of whole milk or heavy cream, you can use 2% milk to reduce the fat content while still keeping the soup creamy.
• Skip the Butter: Use a small amount of olive oil or skip the butter entirely.
• Lower-Sodium Broth: Use low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to reduce the salt content.
• Cauliflower Instead of Potatoes: For a lower-carb option, replace some or all of the potatoes with cauliflower.

Drink Pairings

Pair your Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup with these drinks for a perfect meal:

• Cider: A refreshing hard cider can add a nice contrast to the richness of the soup.
• Iced Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, a lightly sweetened iced tea works well with the soup.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
A: Yes, frozen broccoli works just as well as fresh broccoli. Just add it in the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from overcooking.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes! While sharp cheddar is ideal, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even gouda for a different flavor profile.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! If you want to make a larger batch, simply double the ingredients and cook for the same amount of time.

Best Practices for Slow Cooker Cooking

Cooking in a slow cooker allows you to create the most tender, flavorful dishes with minimal effort. However, there are some best practices you can keep in mind to ensure your Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup turns out perfectly every time.

Layering Ingredients for Optimal Cooking

One key thing to remember when cooking in a slow cooker is the importance of layering your ingredients. For soups and stews, place root vegetables and hearty ingredients (like potatoes) at the bottom, as they take the longest to cook. The more delicate ingredients, such as broccoli, should be added toward the end to avoid overcooking. In this recipe, add your potatoes first, followed by the onions, garlic, and broth. Add the broccoli in the last 30 minutes of cooking to keep its bright color and fresh texture.

Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker

Slow cookers work best when they’re about two-thirds full. Overcrowding the crockpot can lead to uneven cooking, as the heat will have difficulty circulating. If you double the recipe, you may need to use a larger slow cooker or split the ingredients into two separate crockpots for even cooking.

Keep the Lid Closed

Although it may be tempting to check on your soup frequently, resist the urge to lift the lid of your slow cooker. Every time you lift the lid, heat escapes, which can significantly increase cooking time. Stick to the recommended cooking times and only open the lid when absolutely necessary.

Creative Garnishes to Elevate Your Soup

While Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is comforting and delicious on its own, a well-chosen garnish can take your soup to the next level in terms of both flavor and presentation. Here are a few creative ideas to try:

1. Crispy Bacon Bits

Adding crispy bacon bits to your soup gives it a crunchy texture and smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the soup. Simply fry up a few slices of bacon, crumble them, and sprinkle over the soup just before serving.

2. Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs add a pop of color and flavor. A sprinkle of chopped parsley, chives, or even thyme can brighten up the soup. You can also add a few fresh basil leaves or dill for a unique twist.

3. Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt

For a tangy contrast to the richness of the cheese, add a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top of each serving. This will provide a creamy and slightly tart element that complements the flavors.

4. Shredded Cheese

Although this soup already contains melted cheddar cheese, adding an extra handful of freshly shredded cheddar on top gives the soup an appealing, gooey finish. You can even try other cheeses like gouda or parmesan for an additional layer of flavor.

5. Croutons

A handful of homemade croutons or store-bought croutons can provide a crispy contrast to the creamy texture of the soup. For extra flavor, season your croutons with garlic powder, thyme, or rosemary before baking.

6. Chili Flakes or Hot Sauce

If you like a little spice, drizzle your soup with some hot sauce or sprinkle it with chili flakes. This can add an exciting, fiery note to balance out the richness of the potatoes and cheese.

How to Make This Soup a Full Meal

Although Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is already a comforting and hearty dish, you might want to round it out into a more complete meal. Here are a few ways to make this soup the star of a full dinner:

Add Protein:

• Shredded Chicken: As mentioned earlier, you can add cooked, shredded chicken to the soup for added protein. This will make the soup more filling and can be a great way to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken.
• Ground Sausage: Browned ground sausage, either Italian or breakfast sausage, can add an extra layer of flavor. Simply cook the sausage before adding it to the soup, and stir it in after the soup has finished cooking.
• Tofu or Tempeh: For a vegetarian or vegan version, try adding cubed tofu or tempeh for protein.

Serve with a Side:

• Green Salad: Pair the soup with a simple green salad to balance out the rich soup. You can go with a classic Caesar salad, a light arugula salad, or even a kale salad with a tangy lemon vinaigrette.
• Sandwiches: Grilled cheese sandwiches (perhaps with a gourmet twist) pair wonderfully with this soup. Try variations like a turkey and cheddar sandwich or a roasted vegetable and hummus sandwich.
• Quiche: A slice of quiche, especially one filled with spinach or mushrooms, would complement the flavors of this soup for a more indulgent meal.

Incorporate More Vegetables:

You can boost the vegetable content of this soup by adding more veggies, such as carrots, corn, or zucchini. These vegetables can be added in the earlier stages of cooking to ensure they cook thoroughly by the time the soup is ready.

Making This Recipe Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free

If you’re following a gluten-free or dairy-free diet, making a few substitutions can allow you to enjoy this soup while accommodating your dietary preferences.

Gluten-Free:

• Broth: Be sure to use gluten-free broth (vegetable or chicken), as many regular broths contain wheat as a thickener. Check labels to ensure the broth you choose is gluten-free.
• Thickening: Instead of flour, you can use cornstarch or potato starch to thicken the soup if you prefer a gluten-free option. Simply mix the starch with a little cold water to make a slurry and stir it into the soup toward the end of cooking.

Dairy-Free:

• Cheese: For a dairy-free version, you can use a plant-based cheese substitute or nutritional yeast to provide a cheesy flavor. Nutritional yeast is particularly great at giving a cheesy, umami flavor without any dairy.
• Milk and Cream: Replace the heavy cream and milk with non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk. Keep in mind that coconut milk will impart a slight coconut flavor, while oat milk has a neutral taste that works well in creamy soups.
• Butter: Use a plant-based butter or olive oil instead of regular butter for a completely dairy-free soup.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect meal to enjoy on a cozy day, offering both rich flavor and a satisfying texture. This soup can be customized to suit various dietary preferences, and the slow-cooked method ensures that each ingredient has time to meld together, resulting in a deep, comforting flavor.

Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or meal prep, this soup is versatile, easy to prepare, and always crowd-pleasing. With a handful of simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a hearty, cheesy masterpiece that will warm you from the inside out.

So go ahead and give this recipe a try in your slow cooker — it’s bound to become a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again!

Additional Recipe Ideas for Soup Lovers

If you love making soups and stews in your crockpot, consider trying some of these other comforting recipes:

1. Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup: A zesty, flavorful soup that combines tender chicken, beans, and corn with a delicious broth. Top with crispy tortilla strips, sour cream, and fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
2. Crockpot Beef and Vegetable Soup: A hearty, wholesome soup filled with tender beef, a medley of vegetables, and a savory broth. Perfect for chilly evenings.
3. Crockpot Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A classic tomato soup made creamy with a touch of heavy cream and fresh basil. Pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food duo.
4. Crockpot Split Pea Soup: A nutrient-packed soup made with split peas, carrots, celery, and ham. It’s filling, healthy, and perfect for meal prepping.
5. Crockpot Butternut Squash Soup: A creamy, velvety soup made with roasted butternut squash, onions, and a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s sweet, savory, and perfect for autumn.

Conclusion

The Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe provides all the flavors and comfort of a classic, beloved soup. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and indulgent richness make it a favorite for all ages. Plus, with its flexibility for dietary changes, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed by anyone.

Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to grab your slow cooker, gather the ingredients, and get cooking. Soon, you’ll be able to enjoy a creamy bowl of potato, broccoli, and cheddar soup that has all the comforting warmth and depth of flavor you crave.

This Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a hearty, creamy dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy meal. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it as part of a larger gathering, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. With the slow cooker doing most of the work, you can sit back and enjoy the comforting aroma of this delicious soup as it simmers to perfection.

Yield: 6-8

Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

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This Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food — rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. The combination of hearty potatoes, fresh broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese makes it a satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly days. Best of all, this soup is made easy in the slow cooker, allowing the ingredients to meld together over time for an even more delicious result.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 3 hours

Ingredients

• 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 cups half-and-half (or whole milk for a lighter option)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for creaminess)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 1/4 cup water (if using cornstarch for thickening)

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients:
   Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Chop the onion and garlic. If using fresh broccoli, cut it into florets.
   
2. Layer in the Crockpot:
   Add the diced potatoes, onion, garlic, and broccoli to the bottom of the crockpot. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and stir in the thyme, salt, and pepper.
   
3. Cook the Soup:
   Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender and the broccoli is soft.
   
4. Mash and Thicken:
   Once the soup is cooked, use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash some of the potatoes, leaving some pieces for texture. If you prefer a creamier soup, you can blend it until smooth using an immersion blender.
   If you like a thicker soup, mix the cornstarch with the water and stir it into the soup. Let it cook on high for another 20-30 minutes to thicken.
   
5. Add Dairy and Cheese:
   Once the soup has thickened to your liking, stir in the half-and-half (or milk) and butter, if using. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese (and mozzarella, if desired), stirring until the cheese has melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
   
6. Final Seasoning:
   Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or thyme, if needed.
   
7. Serve:
   Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese, croutons, or fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes

Creaminess: For a thicker, creamier soup, you can use half-and-half or add a bit more heavy cream. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute with milk or even a non-dairy milk option (such as almond or oat milk).

Broccoli: Add the broccoli during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from overcooking and losing its color and texture.

Cheese: Freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese works best for melting. Pre-shredded cheese can contain anti-caking agents that may prevent it from melting smoothly.

Stovetop Alternative: If you don’t have a slow cooker, this soup can also be made on the stovetop. Follow the same steps but reduce the cooking time: cook the potatoes until tender (about 25 minutes), then stir in the milk, cream, broccoli, and cheese.

Thickening: For a thicker soup, make a cornstarch slurry (2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup cold water) and add it to the soup 30 minutes before serving. Stir well to avoid lumps.

Flavor Enhancements: You can add more seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of paprika to enhance the flavor. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving can also brighten the taste.