Warm up your kitchen with this creamy and flavorful Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup! This hearty dish combines tender potatoes, vibrant broccoli, and rich cheddar cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave a satisfying bowl of soup, this recipe is simple to prepare and makes for a delightful family meal. Let your slow cooker do the magic while you enjoy the delicious aromas wafting through your home!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (optional, for sautéing)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prep the Ingredients:
- Wash and dice the potatoes into small cubes (about 1/2 inch).
- Cut the broccoli into small florets.
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Sauté the Aromatics (Optional):
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil or butter.
- Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until they are translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step enhances the flavor but can be skipped if you prefer to add everything directly to the crock pot.
- Load the Crock Pot:
- Add the diced potatoes, broccoli florets, sautéed onion and garlic (if used), shredded carrots, thyme, salt, and pepper into the crock pot.
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, stirring gently to combine all ingredients.
- Cook:
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- Add Cheese and Cream:
- Once the soup is done cooking, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream.
- Mix until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.