Introduction
Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delicious and easy-to-make comfort food that is perfect for chilly days or when you need a warm and hearty meal. This creamy soup combines tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and rich cheddar cheese, making it a satisfying dish for the whole family. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it while the ingredients meld together for a flavorful experience.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Potatoes: 4 medium-sized, diced
Broccoli: 2 cups, chopped
Onion: 1 medium, chopped
Carrots: 2 medium, sliced
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Vegetable broth: 4 cups
Cream cheese: 8 oz, cubed
Cheddar cheese: 2 cups, shredded
Salt: 1 teaspoon
Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon
Heavy cream: 1 cup (optional for added creaminess)
Prep Time
Preparation time for this soup is approximately 15 minutes. This includes washing, peeling, and chopping the vegetables.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cooking time is around 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high in the crockpot. The total time from prep to serving is about 6 hours and 15 minutes if you cook on low, and 3 hours and 15 minutes if you choose high. This recipe yields approximately 6 servings, making it an ideal meal for families or leftovers for the week ahead.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Chop the potatoes into bite-sized pieces and cut the broccoli into florets. Set both aside.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot
In the crockpot, add the chopped potatoes, broccoli, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to mix the ingredients well.
Step 3: Cook the Soup
Cover the crockpot and cook everything on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes and broccoli are tender.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Once cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Cream
Stir in the cheddar cheese and heavy cream, mixing until the cheese is melted and well incorporated. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Serve the Soup
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with more cheese, broccoli, or croutons if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat it slowly on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to adjust the consistency.
Vegetarian Option
For a vegetarian version, ensure that you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Cheese Variations
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for added flavor, such as gouda or mozzarella.
Cook techniques
Sautéing Vegetables
Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot enhances their flavors and aroma, giving the soup a richer base.
Layering Ingredients
Layer the ingredients properly in the crockpot to ensure even cooking. Start with denser vegetables like potatoes at the bottom.
Using Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh broccoli and cheddar cheese will enhance the flavor and texture of your soup, making it creamier and more vibrant.
Blending for Creaminess
For a creamier consistency, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup directly in the crockpot or transfer a portion to a blender.
Adjusting Thickness
If the soup is too thick after cooking, you can add more broth or milk to achieve your desired consistency.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but note that it may result in a slightly different texture compared to fresh broccoli.
How long should I cook the soup?
The soup should be cooked on low for about 6-7 hours or on high for about 3-4 hours, depending on your crockpot.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add other vegetables such as carrots or cauliflower for additional flavor and nutrients.
How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup can be frozen. Just ensure it is cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a warm, comforting dish that is simple to prepare and perfect for any time of the year. The combination of creamy cheddar, hearty potatoes, and nutritious broccoli creates a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, it is sure to be a hit.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cauliflower Cheddar Soup
Try substituting broccoli with cauliflower for a different yet delicious flavor. The creamy texture pairs beautifully with cheddar cheese.
Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Enhance the potato soup by adding crispy bacon, sour cream, and green onions to create a loaded baked potato experience.
Vegetable Cheddar Soup
Incorporate a variety of vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and peas for a colorful, nutritious twist to the classic recipe.
Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Use the same delicious broccoli and cheddar combination to create stuffed chicken breasts for an elegant dinner option.
Potato Broccoli Cheddar Casserole
Transform the soup into a casserole by layering it with breadcrumbs and cheese for a baked version that’s perfect as a side dish.
Cheddar Vegetable Quiche
Use leftover soup as a filling base for a quiche, mixing it with eggs and a flaky crust for a hearty brunch option.
