Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheddar Potato Soup

This Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheddar Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and loaded with hearty vegetables. With tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and a rich cheddar cheese sauce, this soup is perfect for chilly days. Let your slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy a warm, flavorful meal with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation – Just chop, toss, and let the slow cooker do the work.
• Creamy & Flavorful – Packed with cheese, cream, and perfectly seasoned vegetables.
• Hearty & Satisfying – A filling meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
• Great for Meal Prep – Stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

• 1 C carrots, chopped
• 1/2 C celery, chopped
• 1 1/4 C yellow onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 1/2 C potatoes, peeled, cubed into small pieces
• 4 C broccoli florets , chopped
• 1 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 1/2 tsp ground white pepper, or black pepper
• 2 1/2 tsp salt
• 4 1/2 C chicken broth
• 1 1/2 C heavy cream
• 1/4 C all purpose flour, see notes
• 8 oz Colby cheddar cheese, freshly shredded

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Chop the carrots, celery, onion, garlic, potatoes, and broccoli into small, even pieces.
2. Shred the Colby cheddar cheese and set it aside.

2: Load the Slow Cooker

3. Add the carrots, celery, onion, garlic, potatoes, and broccoli to the slow cooker.
4. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, white pepper, and salt for seasoning.
5. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring all the ingredients are submerged.

3: Cook the Soup

6. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours, or until the vegetables are tender.
7. Stir the soup occasionally, if possible, to help distribute flavors evenly.

4: Add Cheese and Cream

8. After 4 hours, gradually sprinkle in the shredded Colby cheddar cheese, stirring after each addition to help it melt smoothly.

5: Thicken the Soup

9. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and flour until smooth.
10. Slowly pour the mixture into the slow cooker while stirring to combine.

6: Final Cooking

11. Cover the slow cooker again and continue cooking for an additional 30-45 minutes until the soup thickens.

7: Serve & Enjoy

12. Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheese or fresh parsley, if desired.
13. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips and Variations

• For a thicker soup – Use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup before adding cheese.
• Make it gluten-free – Substitute 2 tablespoons of cornstarch for the flour.
• Swap the cheese – Try sharp cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
• Vegetarian Option – Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast.
• Pair with a light salad for a well-balanced meal.
• Top with crispy bacon bits or sour cream for extra richness.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months, but note that dairy-based soups may separate slightly upon thawing.
• Reheating: Warm over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or milk if the soup is too thick.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! Frozen broccoli works well in this soup, but fresh will give the best texture.

2. Can I cook this on low instead of high?

Absolutely! Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.

3. Can I make this without cheese?

Yes! The soup will still be creamy without cheese, but it won’t have the classic cheddar flavor.

4. What’s the best way to thicken the soup without flour?

Use mashed potatoes or cornstarch mixed with water as a thickening agent.

5. Can I add meat to this soup?

Yes! Diced cooked chicken or crumbled bacon would be a delicious addition.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheddar Potato Soup is a simple, hearty, and delicious meal that’s perfect for chilly days. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, it’s an easy go-to recipe for any night of the week. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a comforting appetizer, this soup is sure to be a family favorite!

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