Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

If you’re craving a cozy, comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug, then this Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is exactly what you need in your life. It’s a luscious, velvety soup packed with vibrant broccoli, tender potatoes, and a rich cheddar flavor that melts perfectly with every spoonful. The best part? Making this soup is effortless thanks to the slow cooker that does all the hard work for you, letting the ingredients meld together beautifully. Whether it’s a chilly day or you want a wholesome meal that’s easy to prep, this soup will quickly become one of your go-to favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make a truly delicious Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you only need a handful of fresh and simple ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and veggie-packed goodness.

• Broccoli florets (6 cups): Fresh and vibrant, broccoli adds a lovely green color and fresh taste, as well as great texture.
• Chopped onion (1 cup): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when slow-cooked.
• Shredded carrots (1 cup): Brings a hint of natural sweetness and a lovely orange contrast.
• Cream cheese (2 oz.): This ingredient adds a silky, tangy richness that deepens the soup’s creamy texture.
• Minced garlic (1 tablespoon): Garlic infuses the soup with a comforting aromatic base.
• Nutmeg (¼ teaspoon): A touch of warmth and subtle spice that enhances the cheesy flavor beautifully.
• Kosher salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the soup.
• Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds just the right kick without overpowering.
• Cornstarch (⅓ cup): Used to thicken the soup gently, giving it a luxurious, creamy consistency.
• Chicken broth (4 cups): The flavorful liquid base that ties all the ingredients together perfectly.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (8 oz.): The star ingredient that gives the soup its irresistible cheesy, melty character.
• Milk (2 cups): Adds creaminess and balances the flavors to make every bite smooth and dreamy.

How to Make Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by roughly chopping the broccoli florets to manageable bite-sized pieces. Place them in the bottom of your crockpot along with the chopped onion, shredded carrots, cream cheese, and minced garlic. This creates a wonderful vegetable base that will soften and meld into the creamy soup as it cooks.

Step 2: Mix the Broth and Seasonings

In a large bowl, whisk together chicken broth with nutmeg, kosher salt, black pepper, and cornstarch until the mixture is completely smooth. This blend of seasoning and thickener will ensure the soup turns out silky and flavorful. Pour this over the vegetables in the crockpot and stir gently to combine all the ingredients.

Step 3: Slow Cook Until Tender

Cover your crockpot and cook on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours or on LOW for 6 to 7 hours. The broccoli should become tender but still maintain a bit of texture. For those who prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend directly in the pot, leaving some small broccoli chunks if you like a bit of bite.

Step 4: Add the Dairy and Cheese

Reduce the crockpot heat to LOW and pour in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Let it cook for about 30 more minutes until the cheese melts completely, creating a creamy and cheesy finish to your Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup that’s simply irresistible.

How to Serve Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Garnishes

Top your soup with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar or a handful of crispy bacon bits for a salty crunch. Freshly chopped chives or parsley add a herbaceous brightness and an inviting splash of green, making each bowl look as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty artisan bread or warm, buttery dinner rolls to dunk and scoop every last bit. For a lighter option, a simple crisp side salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup inside a hollowed-out bread bowl for an extra cozy and rustic touch that’s perfect for entertaining or family dinners. You can also ladle it over baked potatoes for a heartier meal, turning traditional sides into a comforting hybrid.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring into an airtight container to keep the flavors fresh and the texture just right.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge and be aware that the texture may separate slightly but will re-emulsify when reheated.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it back up and keep it creamy and delicious.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and you’ll still get all the comforting flavors without the meat. The combination of cheese, cream cheese, and vegetables shines on its own in this recipe.

Is it possible to use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli can work in a pinch. Just be aware it tends to soften more during cooking, so the texture might be softer. Add it in at the beginning and adjust cooking time as needed.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Cheddar is classic for this soup, but feel free to experiment with Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a sharper cheese like aged white cheddar to give it a unique twist.

How thick should the soup be?

The soup should be creamy and smooth but still pourable. If you prefer it thicker, add a little more cornstarch mixture next time or mash some of the broccoli pieces after cooking.

What if my soup isn’t thick enough?

If it feels too thin after cooking, whisk together a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the hot soup. Cook on low until it thickens up nicely.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup, it will become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation. The ease of slow cooking combined with such a rich, comforting flavor is simply unmatched. So go ahead, gather these simple ingredients, set it and forget it, and treat yourself to a bowl of warmth and pure deliciousness. Your cozy night just found its perfect match!

Print