Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
A cozy, creamy Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup combining tender Yukon Gold potatoes, fresh broccoli florets, and sharp cheddar cheese in a savory broth. This hands-off slow cooker recipe yields a comforting, hearty, and nutritious soup perfect for any season, made with simple pantry staples and easily customizable to your taste.
- Author: Nora
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours low or 3-4 hours high
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free flour substitution)
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped into bite-sized chunks
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Prepare the Base Ingredients: Peel and chop the Yukon Gold potatoes into bite-sized chunks. Cut the broccoli into small florets. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic to release their flavors when cooked.
- Sauté Aromatics and Make Roux: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes to form a roux that will thicken the soup and add creaminess.
- Add Ingredients to Crockpot: Transfer the roux mixture to your slow cooker. Add the chopped potatoes, broccoli florets, and broth. Stir everything together to combine evenly. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until vegetables are tender.
- Finish with Cheese and Cream: Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and milk or half-and-half. Mix gently until the cheese has fully melted into a creamy, silky soup. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Blend for Texture (Optional): If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree part or all of the soup to your desired consistency. Alternatively, serve as a chunky, rustic soup.
Notes
- Choose Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for the best texture and creaminess.
- Do not skip the roux; it is essential for a thick, silky soup without using heavy cream.
- Add cheese gradually off the heat to prevent graininess or separation.
- Use fresh broccoli rather than frozen to maintain the best texture and flavor.
- Season the soup in layers by tasting and adjusting salt and pepper at multiple stages.
- To make it vegan, substitute cheddar with vegan cheese, and use plant-based milk and broth.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
- Feel free to add extra veggies like carrots, celery, or cauliflower.
- Protein additions such as cooked chicken, bacon bits, or sausage can turn this into a heartier meal.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This soup freezes well if the cheese is left out and added fresh when reheating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
Keywords: potato broccoli cheddar soup, crockpot soup, slow cooker soup, creamy potato soup, broccoli cheddar soup, comfort food, easy soup recipe