Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together the classic flavors of broccoli and cheddar cheese with the creamy goodness of potatoes. This recipe is perfect for chilly days when you crave something warm and satisfying. The slow cooker method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and velvety soup with minimal effort. My first encounter with this soup was during a winter family gathering, where its comforting aroma filled the house, making everyone eager to sit down and enjoy a bowl. This soup not only warms you up but also brings a sense of nostalgia and comfort. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or something special for a family dinner, this Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

32 oz frozen broccoli (fresh doesn’t stand up well)

2 Idaho potatoes, cut up

1 can of cream of chicken soup

1 can of cream of mushroom soup

1 small yellow onion, sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced (1.5 tsp)

1 (14 oz) can of chicken broth

1/4 stick butter

1 block Velveeta cheese

1 tsp flour

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Peel and Cut the Potatoes:

Start by peeling 2 Idaho potatoes.

Cut the potatoes into small, even-sized cubes to ensure they cook evenly in the crockpot.

Slice the Onion:

Take 1 small yellow onion and slice it finely.

This will help the onion integrate well into the soup, providing a subtle sweetness.

Mince the Garlic:

Mince 2 cloves of garlic (approximately 1.5 teaspoons).

Fresh garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the soup.

Step 2: Assemble the Soup in the Crockpot

Add Vegetables to the Crockpot:

Place the cut potatoes, sliced onion, minced garlic, and 32 oz of frozen broccoli into the crockpot.

Using frozen broccoli ensures that the broccoli maintains its texture throughout the cooking process.

Add Cream Soups:

Add 1 can of cream of chicken soup and 1 can of cream of mushroom soup to the crockpot.

These soups add creaminess and depth to the base of your soup.

Pour in Chicken Broth:

Pour in 1 (14 oz) can of chicken broth.

The broth helps to create the soup base and adds flavor.

Add Butter and Flour:

Cut 1/4 stick of butter into small pieces and add it to the crockpot.

Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of flour over the ingredients. This will help thicken the soup as it cooks.

Season with Salt and Pepper:

Add salt and pepper to taste.

It’s important to season the soup at this stage, but you can always adjust the seasoning at the end if needed.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

Cook on High:

Set your crockpot to high and cook for 4-5 hours.

Cook until the potatoes are tender and the broccoli is cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Prepare the Velveeta:

Cut 1 block of Velveeta cheese into small cubes.

Smaller cubes will melt more quickly and evenly into the soup.

Add Velveeta to the Crockpot:

About 30 minutes before the end of the cooking time, add the Velveeta cubes to the crockpot.

Stir well to help the cheese melt evenly into the soup, creating a rich and creamy texture.

Step 5: Final Adjustments and Serve

Check Consistency and Seasoning:

Check the consistency of the soup. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.

Serve:

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.

This soup is perfect on its own or with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian Option:

Replace the cream of chicken soup with another can of cream of mushroom soup.

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Different Cheeses:

Substitute the Velveeta cheese with sharp cheddar or a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top before serving for an extra cheesy kick.

Additional Vegetables:

Add other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or leeks for added flavor and nutrition.

If using fresh vegetables, sauté them lightly before adding them to the crockpot to enhance their flavors.

Spicy Twist:

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy variation.

You can also add some chopped jalapeños for a more intense heat.

Thicker Soup:

For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes in the crockpot before adding the cheese.

Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender.

Conclusion

Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delicious, hearty dish that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. Its rich, creamy texture and savory flavors make it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The simplicity of the crockpot method ensures that you can prepare this soup with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones. The versatility of the recipe means you can easily adapt it to suit various dietary preferences and tastes. Whether you stick to the classic ingredients or try out some of the suggested variations, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the process of making this delightful dish and the joy it brings to your table.