Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

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Introduction

Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting, creamy, and cheesy meal that’s perfect for chilly days. Combining hearty potatoes, nutritious broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese, this soup is not only delicious but also easy to make with minimal effort. Simply toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do the work for you, creating a velvety, savory soup that the whole family will love.

Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

  • 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
  • 2 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for added richness)

Optional Additions

  • Bacon: Add crispy bacon crumbles as a topping for extra flavor.
  • Carrots: Include diced carrots for more texture and color.
  • Hot Sauce: A dash of hot sauce can be added for a little heat.

Tips for Success

  • Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that may prevent smooth melting, so it’s best to shred your own cheddar.
  • For a Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the potatoes in the slow cooker before adding the cream and cheese.
  • Low and Slow: Cooking on low allows the flavors to develop more fully, but if you’re short on time, high heat works well too.

Instructions

  1. Prep the Ingredients:
  • Peel and dice the potatoes, chop the broccoli into small florets, and mince the garlic and onion.
  1. Add to the Crock Pot:
  • In the crock pot, add the diced potatoes, broccoli florets, chopped onion, minced garlic, vegetable broth, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  • Stir to combine and cover the crock pot.
  1. Cook:
  • Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the broccoli is soft.
  1. Add Cream and Cheese:
  • Once the vegetables are fully cooked, stir in the heavy cream and butter (if using).
  • Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese while stirring, allowing it to melt and blend into the soup.
  1. Blend for Creaminess (Optional):
  • If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend part or all of the soup. Alternatively, you can transfer a portion of the soup to a blender and pulse it until smooth, then return it to the crock pot.
  1. Final Seasoning and Serve:
  • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
  • Garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, or crispy bacon bits if desired.

Description

This Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chunks of potato and broccoli enveloped in a rich, cheesy broth. The sharpness of cheddar cheese pairs perfectly with the earthy flavors of the vegetables, while the cream adds a velvety texture. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or something to enjoy for lunch, this easy slow-cooker soup will warm you up with every bite.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~400 kcal
  • Protein: ~15g
  • Fat: ~30g
  • Carbohydrates: ~20g
  • Fiber: ~4g
  • Sugar: ~3g
  • Sodium: ~700mg

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

To make this soup lighter, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a milk alternative like unsweetened almond milk. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a reduced-fat variety while still retaining the rich flavor. Add extra vegetables like carrots or cauliflower for additional nutrition, and serve with a green salad or crusty bread for a well-rounded meal.

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