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Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming up on chilly days. This hearty soup combines the earthy flavors of potatoes, the freshness of broccoli, and the creamy richness of cheddar cheese, all simmered to perfection in a slow cooker. The ease of preparation, combined with its rich, velvety texture, makes this dish a favorite among families. In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about making this delectable soup, including tips, benefits, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Nutrition Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH
- Total Time: 6.5 to 7.5 hours
- Servings: 6
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 350 kcal
Ingredients for Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Here’s a detailed list of ingredients you’ll need to create this delicious soup:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions: Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by washing and peeling the potatoes. Dice them into small, even pieces to ensure uniform cooking. Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets, and dice the onion finely. Shred your cheddar cheese if not already pre-shredded.
2. Assemble the Ingredients in the Crock Pot
In your crock pot, combine the diced potatoes, broccoli florets, diced onion, garlic powder, and broth. Stir everything well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
3. Cook the Soup
- For a Slow Cook: Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on LOW for 6-7 hours. This method allows the ingredients to meld together for a deeper flavor.
- For a Quick Cook: If you’re short on time, set the crock pot to HIGH and cook for 3-4 hours.
Ensure the potatoes are fork-tender before moving to the next step.
4. Blend the Soup
Use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup. Blending gives it a creamy texture while leaving some chunks for added heartiness. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer a portion of the soup to a regular blender and puree in batches. Return the blended soup to the crock pot.
5. Incorporate Cheese and Cream
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Mix thoroughly until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is rich and creamy. Adjust the seasoning by adding salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese or steamed broccoli florets for an elevated presentation.
Tips for Making the Best Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best due to their starchy texture, which enhances the creaminess.
- Fresh vs. Frozen Broccoli: While fresh broccoli provides a better texture, frozen broccoli can be used if you’re in a pinch.
- Blend Strategically: For a chunky soup, only puree half the mixture. For a smoother texture, puree more.
- Cheese Quality Matters: Use high-quality cheddar cheese for optimal flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents, as it may not melt as smoothly.
- Control Thickness: If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth or cream until the desired consistency is reached.
Benefits of This Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with vitamins from broccoli and potatoes, this soup is a wholesome meal on its own.
- Easy to Prepare: The crock pot does all the hard work, making it a great recipe for busy days.
- Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and cheesy flavor appeal to even the pickiest eaters.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe by adding carrots, celery, or other vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Meal Prep-Friendly: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for meal planning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, and use a dairy-free cheese substitute.
2. Can I freeze this Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Absolutely. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat gently to avoid curdling the cream.
3. What can I use instead of an immersion blender?
A regular blender works well. Blend the soup in batches, but be cautious with hot liquids to prevent splattering.
4. Can I add protein to this Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Certainly. Cooked chicken, turkey, or crumbled sausage can be stirred in before serving for a protein boost.
5. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered dish, stirring halfway through.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the epitome of comfort food, blending simple ingredients into a creamy, delicious meal. Its ease of preparation and hearty flavor make it a must-try recipe for any home cook. With tips, benefits, and answers to common questions, you’re now equipped to create this classic dish like a pro. Serve it as a main course with crusty bread or as a starter for a cozy family dinner.
Enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness of this soup, and share it with loved ones for a meal that satisfies the soul!
