Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe ๐ฒ
Indulge in the Comforting Warmth of Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup!
There’s nothing quite like the velvety, rich taste of a hearty potato broccoli cheddar soup simmered to perfection in a Crock Pot. This recipe is a winter warmer that will quickly become a family favorite, perfect for cozying up on a chilly evening. As the potatoes slowly break down, they create a naturally creamy base that perfectly complements the sharpness of cheddar cheese and the earthy flavors of fresh broccoli. The convenience of a Crock Pot allows the flavors to meld together effortlessly, creating a comforting dish that is both satisfying and incredibly easy to prepare.
This Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not just any soupโit’s a bowl full of comfort, health, and flavor that can be whipped up without much fuss. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a comforting lunch, or even a make-ahead meal for busy days, this soup ticks all the boxes. The use of high-quality ingredients like sharp cheddar cheese and fresh broccoli ensures that each spoonful is packed with flavor, while the slow cooking process allows the soup to develop a deep, savory taste that is simply irresistible.
Perfect for those who appreciate a delicious, homemade meal without the hassle, this recipe is a lifesaver on busy days. Itโs also a great way to sneak in some extra veggies, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Pair this soup with a slice of crusty bread, and you have a meal that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious.
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Ingredients ๐
- 4 cups broccoli florets (about 2 medium heads) ๐ฅฆ
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 6 cups) ๐ฅ
- 1 large onion, diced ๐ง
- 3 cloves garlic, minced ๐ง
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth ๐ฒ
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese ๐ง
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half ๐ฅ
- 1 tsp salt ๐ง
- 1/2 tsp black pepper ๐ถ๏ธ
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional) ๐ถ๏ธ
- 2 tbsp butter ๐ง
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening) ๐ฝ
- Fresh parsley for garnish ๐ฟ
Instructions ๐
- Prep the Vegetables:
- Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes. Dice the onion and garlic, and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
- Layer the Crock Pot:
- Add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and broccoli florets to your Crock Pot. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth until the vegetables are just covered.
- Season and Cook:
- Add the salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to the pot. Stir gently to combine. Cover with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender.
- Blend the Soup:
- Once the vegetables are fully cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend just a portion of the soup, leaving some chunks intact.
- Add Cheese and Cream:
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream. If you prefer a thicker soup, create a slurry by mixing the cornstarch with a little cold water, then add it to the soup. Cook on high for another 15-30 minutes until the soup has thickened slightly.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy with crusty bread or a side salad. ๐ฅฃ
Frequently Asked Questions ๐ค
1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
- Absolutely! Frozen broccoli can be a convenient alternative. Just add it in the last hour of cooking to prevent it from becoming too mushy.
2. How do I make this soup vegetarian?
- Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you have a delicious vegetarian soup.
3. Can I freeze this soup?
- Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
4. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
- If youโre looking to lighten up the recipe, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk, though the soup may be slightly less creamy.
5. How can I add extra protein to this soup?
- Stir in some cooked, shredded chicken or crumbled bacon towards the end of cooking for an extra boost of protein.
This Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe is not only a delight to your taste buds but also a great way to attract readers to your food blog. With the right blend of keywords and delicious ingredients, youโre sure to rank high on Google and have everyone coming back for seconds! ๐ฒ