When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? Maybe it’s a warm hug in a bowl, something creamy and cheesy, perhaps with a sprinkle of greens for good measure. Imagine walking into your kitchen and being enveloped by the aroma of bubbling cheese and fresh broccoli mingling together, promising warmth and satisfaction. creamy brisket mac and cheese comforting chicken mashed potato bowls That’s exactly what you’ll get with this Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup—an experience that soothes the soul while tantalizing your taste buds. slow cooker queso chicken tacos. For more inspiration, check out this Copy Cat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup recipe.
This soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a memory maker. Picture cozy evenings spent with loved ones, laughter filling the air as you enjoy this rich, velvety concoction. It’s perfect for chilly nights when all you want is something that feels like a warm blanket wrapped around you. Let’s dive into how to whip up this delightful dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds—or thirds!
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. The flavor profile combines earthy potatoes with vibrant broccoli and creamy cheddar for a delicious taste explosion. With its rich green hues and golden cheese, it looks as good as it tastes. Enjoy this versatile soup as an appetizer or a hearty main dish any time of year! [/info_box]
I remember the first time I made this soup; my kids practically danced around the kitchen when they caught whiffs of that cheesy goodness bubbling away!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Potatoes: Choose Yukon Gold or Russets for their creamy texture; peel them to ensure a smooth soup.
Fresh Broccoli: Use bright green florets; they add color and crunch while retaining nutrients.
Onion: A medium yellow onion works best, providing a sweet flavor base when cooked down.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will enhance the aroma; chop them finely to release maximum flavor. honey garlic butter roasted carrots.
Vegetable Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while still adding depth to your soup.
Cream Cheese: This ingredient adds creaminess and richness; let it soften before mixing for ease.
Cheddar Cheese: Grate sharp cheddar for robust flavor; feel free to mix in other cheeses for variety.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and optional spices like paprika or cayenne can elevate your soup’s flavor profile.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Veggies: Start by washing and peeling your potatoes, then chop them into bite-sized pieces along with your broccoli florets. The goal is uniformity so they cook evenly.
Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil before tossing in diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant and soft—about 5 minutes will do. These are the foundation of flavor.
Add Ingredients to Crockpot: Transfer your sautéed onions and garlic into the crockpot. Add chopped potatoes, broccoli florets, vegetable broth, salt, pepper, and any spices you fancy—don’t be shy!
Set It and Forget It!: Cover your crockpot lid securely and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until potatoes are tender enough to mash easily with a fork.
Blend Until Smooth: Once cooked through, use an immersion blender right in the pot (or transfer batches to a blender) until smooth—be careful not to burn yourself!
Add Creaminess**: Stir in softened cream cheese until fully melted before adding grated cheddar cheese gradually—mixing until everything is beautifully blended together.
Enjoy your warm bowl of Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup while catching up with family or binging your favorite series! This delightful dish is sure to become a staple in your home as much as it has mine. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This delightful Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup combines creamy textures with cheesy goodness, making it a cozy favorite. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, creating a warm embrace that invites everyone to gather around the table. Perfect for chilly nights or quick lunches, it’s a dish that brings smiles. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing the onions and garlic for enhanced flavor, then add potatoes and broccoli before pouring in broth. This will ensure the ingredients meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out broccoli for cauliflower or add cooked bacon for extra flavor. A sprinkle of nutmeg can also elevate the taste!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat until warmed through, adding additional broth if needed.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] For creamy soups, always blend part of the soup to create a smooth texture. Ensure your vegetables are cut uniformly for even cooking. Don’t skip on seasoning; it truly elevates flavors! [/info_box]
Cooking this soup reminds me of winter afternoons when I’d come home from school, greeted by its comforting aroma. Every spoonful was a warm hug after a long day.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli in this Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well; just add it in halfway through cooking.
How can I thicken my soup if it’s too thin?
You can blend some of the soup and return it to the pot to thicken.
What cheese is best for Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Sharp cheddar adds great flavor; feel free to mix in some Gruyère for complexity!
Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Warm up with this Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup—a creamy, cheesy delight that brings coziness to chilly evenings. This easy-to-make soup features earthy potatoes and vibrant broccoli, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. Perfect for family dinners or as a hearty lunch, this dish promises satisfaction with every spoonful.
- Total Time: 58 minute
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Ingredients
- 4 cups Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep your veggies by washing and peeling the potatoes; chop them into bite-sized pieces along with the broccoli.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in olive oil until soft and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
- Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to your crockpot. Add the chopped potatoes, broccoli florets, vegetable broth, salt, pepper, and any spices you like.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until the potatoes are tender enough to mash easily.
- Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or by transferring batches to a blender carefully.
- Stir in softened cream cheese until melted, then gradually add the grated cheddar cheese while mixing until fully combined.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider swapping out broccoli for cauliflower or adding cooked bacon bits. A pinch of nutmeg can enhance the overall taste. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on low heat.
