Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hands-off Cooking: Thanks to the crockpot, this recipe requires minimal prep time. Simply chop your ingredients, toss them into the slow cooker, and let it do the rest!
- Creamy and Delicious: The combination of creamy potatoes, fresh broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese creates the ultimate flavor-packed soup.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve this hearty soup as a main course with some crusty bread or as a side dish to complement any meal.
- Healthy Comfort Food: Loaded with nutritious vegetables like potatoes and broccoli, this soup is a comforting yet wholesome dish that can be enjoyed without guilt.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk (or heavy cream for a richer texture)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small cubes. Chop the broccoli into florets, making sure they’re not too large to cook evenly in the crockpot. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Add Ingredients to the Crockpot: Place the diced potatoes, chopped broccoli, onion, and garlic into the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring the vegetables are covered. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if using) for flavor.
- Cook the Soup: Set the crockpot to low and cook for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the broccoli is cooked through.
- Mash the Potatoes: Once the soup is done cooking, use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash the potatoes in the crockpot. You can make it as smooth or chunky as you like, depending on your preference.
- Add Milk and Cheese: Stir in the milk (or heavy cream if you want an even richer soup) and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup becomes creamy.
- Final Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 6–7 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high
Variations
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or cauliflower for an extra boost of nutrition and flavor.
- Make it Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to double-check that the broth and any other ingredients you use are certified gluten-free.
- Use Sharp Cheddar: For a bolder, more intense flavor, opt for sharp cheddar cheese.
- Thicken the Soup: If you like your soup thicker, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water or use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup.
Storage/Reheating
- Store: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- Reheat: To reheat, warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
FAQs
How can I make this soup dairy-free?
To make this soup dairy-free, substitute the milk with a plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Add it during the last hour of cooking to prevent it from becoming too mushy.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture when cooked.
Can I add meat to this soup?
Absolutely! Adding cooked bacon, ham, or shredded chicken can enhance the flavor and make the soup more filling.
Is it possible to make this soup on the stovetop?
Yes, you can simmer the ingredients in a large pot over medium heat until the potatoes and broccoli are tender, then proceed with mashing and adding the dairy and cheese.
How can I prevent the cheese from clumping?
Ensure the soup is not boiling when you add the cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
Can I use vegetable broth to make it vegetarian?
Yes, substituting chicken broth with vegetable broth will make the soup vegetarian-friendly.
What can I use instead of thyme?
If you don’t have
Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes (high)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Warm up with a bowl of Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup—a creamy, cheesy, and hearty dish perfect for chilly days. This easy slow-cooker recipe is packed with tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and rich cheddar cheese, making it a comforting meal for the whole family. Serve it with crusty bread for the ultimate cozy dinner!
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk (or heavy cream for a richer texture)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Peel and dice the potatoes. Chop the broccoli into small florets, dice the onion, and mince the garlic.
- Load the Crockpot: Add the potatoes, broccoli, onion, garlic, and broth to the slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme if using.
- Slow Cook: Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- Mash for Texture: Use a potato masher or immersion blender to achieve your desired consistency.
- Add Dairy & Cheese: Stir in milk (or heavy cream) and shredded cheddar until fully melted and creamy.
- Adjust & Serve: Taste and season if needed. Garnish with extra cheese, green onions, or sour cream.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, ensure all ingredients, including broth, are certified gluten-free.
- Sharp cheddar gives a bolder cheese flavor.
- If using frozen broccoli, add it in the last hour of cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–7 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
