Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

There’s nothing better than a warm, creamy bowl of soup on a chilly day. When the air is crisp and the evenings get colder, a comforting soup can feel like a big, cozy hug. This Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect way to warm up while enjoying a rich, cheesy, and nutritious meal.

What makes this soup even better? It’s incredibly easy to make! Just toss everything into the crockpot, let it simmer for a few hours, and come back to a delicious homemade meal. No need to stand over the stove stirring for hours—your crockpot does all the hard work for you.

If you love thick, creamy soups packed with flavor, this recipe is a must-try. The combination of tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and gooey cheddar cheese creates a dish that’s both filling and delicious. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies for picky eaters!

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Why You’ll Love This Soup

• Easy to Make – Just dump everything into the crockpot and let it cook while you go about your day.
• Creamy & Cheesy – If you love cheese, this soup is for you! The cheddar makes it rich and flavorful.
• Nutritious & Hearty – Packed with fiber from potatoes and vitamins from broccoli, this soup is both delicious and healthy.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Kid-Friendly – Even picky eaters will love this cheesy goodness!

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Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 3 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups fresh broccoli, chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter option)
• 2 tablespoons butter

For Thickening (Optional):

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• ¼ cup water

Kitchen Tools Needed

To make this Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you don’t need any fancy equipment—just a few basic kitchen tools:

• Crockpot (Slow Cooker) – This is the star of the show! A 6-quart slow cooker works best.
• Cutting board and knife – For chopping potatoes, broccoli, and onions.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To get the right ingredient amounts.
• Ladle – For serving up that delicious soup.
• Whisk (optional) – If you need to mix the cornstarch slurry for thickening.
• Cheese grater – Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese.

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Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

• Wash, peel, and dice the potatoes into small cubes.
• Chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
• Dice the onion and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Load the Crockpot

• Add the potatoes, broccoli, onion, garlic, broth, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme to the crockpot.
• Stir everything together and cover with the lid.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

• Set your crockpot to LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
• The soup is ready when the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4: Blend for Creaminess (Optional)

• If you like a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup while leaving some chunks.
• If you prefer a chunkier soup, just give it a good stir.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Cream

• Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and butter until melted and smooth.
• If you want a thicker soup, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with ¼ cup of water and stir it into the soup. Let it cook for another 10-15 minutes until thickened.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

• Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra shredded cheese or crispy bacon bits.
• Serve with warm crusty bread or crackers for the ultimate comfort meal!

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Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grate your own for the best results!
• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli – Add the broccoli in the last 1-2 hours of cooking if you prefer a firmer texture.
• Make it Extra Creamy – Blend part of the soup for a smoother texture, or stir in a little extra heavy cream for richness.
• Customize the Flavor – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat, or mix in cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor.
• Storage and Reheating – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed.

This Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food—cheesy, creamy, and so easy to make! Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or just need something cozy for dinner, this recipe is sure to be a favorite. Enjoy!

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is how customizable it is! Whether you’re working with dietary restrictions or just want to switch things up, here are some great alternatives:

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Potatoes: Swap russet potatoes for Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a slightly different texture.
• Cheddar Cheese: Try Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a mix of cheeses for a unique flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Use half-and-half, whole milk, or even unsweetened coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
• Butter: Replace with olive oil or plant-based butter for a vegan-friendly soup.
• Chicken Broth: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

Variations:

• Make it Spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a bit of hot sauce for some heat.
• Loaded Baked Potato Style: Stir in cooked bacon bits, sour cream, and green onions for a loaded potato soup vibe.
• Extra Veggies: Add carrots, celery, or cauliflower for more nutrients and texture.
• Protein Boost: Stir in cooked shredded chicken or ground turkey to make it more filling.

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Serving Suggestions

This creamy soup is hearty on its own, but pairing it with the right sides makes it even better!

Best Side Dishes:

• Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls: Perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Adds a buttery, garlicky crunch.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic cheesy combo!
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness.
• Crackers or Croutons: Add a bit of crunch on top.

Toppings to Try:

• Extra shredded cheese
• Crispy bacon bits
• Green onions
• Sour cream
• Crushed croutons

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers:

• Let the soup cool to room temperature before storing.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze in portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or milk if it’s too thick.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• From Frozen: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stovetop.

Note: If the soup separates after being stored, just stir well and reheat gently to bring back the creamy texture.

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FAQ

Can I make this soup without a crockpot?

Yes! Cook everything in a large pot on the stove, bringing it to a boil, then reducing it to a simmer for 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are tender. Stir in the cheese and cream at the end.

How do I make this soup thicker?

Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with ¼ cup of water, then stir it into the soup and let it cook for 10-15 more minutes. You can also blend part of the soup for a creamier texture.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes! Just add frozen broccoli in the last 30-45 minutes of cooking so it doesn’t get too mushy.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you use a gluten-free broth and thicken with cornstarch instead of flour, it’s naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free cheese and replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or another plant-based alternative.

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This Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is an easy, cheesy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any season. Whether you enjoy it on a cozy night in or serve it to guests, it’s sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!