Easy Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup – A Family Favorite

# Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort in a Bowl

This **Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup** is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and wholesome nutrition. Made with tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a fragrant blend of seasonings, this soup is a comfort food dream come true. Whether you’re looking for a simple dish to warm you on a chilly evening or an easy meal the whole family will love, this recipe delivers every time.

Simple to prepare with a trusty crockpot, this soup achieves a velvety texture and depth of flavor without requiring constant babysitting. Enjoy the rich taste of cheddar combined with hearty potatoes and vibrant broccoli for a dish that will have you coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into what makes this soup a true family favorite.

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## Quick Recipe Highlights
– **Flavor Profile**: Creamy, cheesy, and comforting with a hint of smokiness from paprika.
– **Texture**: Rich and velvety with chunks of tender potato and broccoli.
– **Aroma**: Savory notes of garlic, onion, and melted cheddar cheese.
– **Visual Appeal**: A vibrant bowl with warm tones of cheddar and green pops of broccoli.
– **Skill Level Needed**: Perfect for beginners—minimal preparation, let the crockpot do the work.
– **Special Equipment**: A crockpot or slow cooker, immersion blender or potato masher.

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## Recipe Overview
– **Difficulty Level**: This is an easy recipe suited for all experience levels. The crockpot eliminates the need for complicated cooking techniques.
– **Category**: Lunch or dinner; works as a one-pot meal or appetizer course.
– **Cuisine**: Comfort food with American-inspired flavors.
– **Cost**: Affordable, using pantry staples like potatoes and cheddar cheese.
– **Season**: Perfect for fall and winter when warm, hearty meals are most appreciated.
– **Occasion**: Simple weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or prepping for meal plans.

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## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crafted for the busy home cook, this dish is as practical as it is delicious:

1. **Taste and Texture Appeal**: The smooth, cheesy base is perfectly complemented by the soft chunks of potato and broccoli, creating a satisfying balance.
2. **Convenience**: Thanks to the crockpot, you can set everything up and let it cook while handling your day.
3. **Nutritional Benefits**: Loaded with fiber from the vegetables and protein from the cheese, this soup is nutrient-dense and fuels your body.
4. **Social Value**: It’s a hit with family and friends—perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home.
5. **Budget-Friendly**: Made with inexpensive ingredients that yield multiple satisfying servings.

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## Ingredient Deep Dive

– **Potatoes**: With their starchy richness, potatoes create the creamy base for this soup. Opt for Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for their smooth consistency. Store in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness.

– **Broccoli**: The bright green florets not only add nutrition but also beautiful color. Choose fresh broccoli with firm stalks and tight buds for the best flavor, although frozen broccoli works well too.

– **Cheddar Cheese**: Sharp cheddar takes the flavor up a notch, creating a bold, cheesy taste. For maximum meltability, shred the cheese yourself rather than buying pre-shredded.

– **Garlic and Onion**: These aromatics form the flavor backbone, enriching the soup’s savory profile. Use fresh ingredients for the best results, or substitute with garlic/onion powder in a pinch.

– **Smoked Paprika**: Adds a hint of warmth and smokiness to elevate the dish. Skip the cayenne if you prefer mild flavors.

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## The Recipe

### Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

**Serves**: 6
**Prep Time**: 15 mins
**Cook Time**: 6 hours
**Total Time**: 6 hrs 15 mins

### Kitchen Equipment Needed
– Crockpot or slow cooker
– Immersion blender or potato masher
– Sharp knives for chopping
– Cutting board
– Ladle for serving

### Ingredients
– 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (about 4 medium potatoes)
– 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Fresh chives or green onions for garnish

### Directions
1. Place diced potatoes, broccoli florets, onion, and garlic into your crockpot.
2. Pour the broth over the vegetables and season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using). Stir to combine.
3. Cook on **low for 6-7 hours** or until potatoes are very tender. Alternatively, cook on **high for 3-4 hours**.
4. Use a potato masher or immersion blender to puree the soup until the desired texture is reached.
5. Mix in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, allowing the cheese to melt as it cooks for an additional 20-30 minutes on low.
6. Finish by stirring in unsalted butter for added richness. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives or green onions.

### Recipe Notes
– For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with whole milk.
– Add extra veggies, like carrots or celery, for more depth and flavor.
– To thicken further, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir into the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

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## Troubleshooting Guide

– **Too Thick**: Add more broth or cream to loosen the consistency.
– **Not Creamy Enough**: Ensure all cheese is fully melted, or blend the soup more thoroughly.
– **Bitter Flavor**: Overcooked broccoli can lead to bitterness. Opt for fresh rather than frozen if this is an issue.

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This **Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup** is the epitome of cozy comfort food. Whether you’re new to the kitchen or a crockpot pro, this recipe is a surefire winner. Let us know how you enjoyed it and share your photos of the delicious results. Happy cooking!