This Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a warm, comforting dish perfect for chilly days. It combines the earthy flavors of potato and broccoli with creamy, cheesy goodness, all simmered slowly for deep, developed flavors.
📋 Ingredients:
- 🥦 4 cups broccoli florets, roughly chopped
- 🥔 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 🧅 1 large onion, chopped
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🧀 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 🥛 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 🥛 1 cup cream or whole milk
- 🧂 Salt and black pepper to taste
- 🌿 Optional: 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg or smoked paprika for added flavor
- 🥓 Optional: cooked, crumbled bacon for topping
- 🌿 Optional: chopped chives or green onions for garnish
📝 Directions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
- In your crockpot, combine the chopped broccoli, diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and chicken or vegetable broth. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional spices like nutmeg or smoked paprika.
2. Cook:
- Cover and set your crockpot to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The soup is ready when the potatoes are tender and can be easily mashed with a fork.
3. Blend (Optional):
- For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup right in the crockpot. You can also blend portions of the soup in a blender and then return it to the pot. Blend to your desired consistency, whether completely smooth or slightly chunky.
4. Add Dairy:
- Stir in the cream or milk and the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue to cook on low for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
5. Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon, additional shredded cheese, and chopped chives or green onions if desired.
🍽 Serve:
Enjoy your Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup as a cozy meal on its own or paired with crusty bread for dipping. This soup offers the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition, making it a satisfying meal for any day of the week.
⏱ Preparation Time: 15 minutes
⏱ Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low, 3-4 hours on high
🍽 Servings: 6 servings
💡 Notes:
- If you prefer a thinner soup, you can add more broth or water when adding the dairy.
- For a lactose-free version, use lactose-free milk and a suitable lactose-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
This Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is sure to become a new favorite, providing both warmth and wholesome nutrients in every spoonful! 🥦✨