Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Introduction
There’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of warm, creamy soup on a chilly day. And when it comes to comfort food, it doesn’t get much better than potato broccoli cheddar soup. This delicious and hearty soup is packed with flavor and is the perfect way to warm up your belly. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make with the help of a crock pot. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to create this mouthwatering soup that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
Soup Base:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 large head of broccoli, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish (optional):
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions
- Crispy bacon bits
Steps
Follow these simple steps to make your crock pot potato broccoli cheddar soup:
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by peeling and cubing the potatoes. Chop the broccoli into small florets. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Shred the cheddar cheese if using a block.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become fragrant and translucent.
Step 3: Prepare the Soup Base
Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic into the crock pot. Add the cubed potatoes, chopped broccoli, vegetable or chicken broth, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Cook the Soup
Cover the crock pot and cook the soup on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork and the flavors well combined.
Step 5: Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth. Be careful when blending hot liquids to prevent any accidents.
Step 6: Add the Cheese and Milk
Return the blended soup to the crock pot. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth. Pour this mixture into the crock pot and stir well. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and continue stirring until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy.
Step 7: Adjust Seasonings
Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings according to your preference. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs if desired.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and crispy bacon bits if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Variations
Here are a few variations you can try to customize your potato broccoli cheddar soup:
- Add cooked diced chicken or crispy bacon for extra protein.
- Replace the cheddar cheese with Swiss or Gruyere for a different flavor profile.
- Add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and skip the bacon garnish.
Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your crock pot potato broccoli cheddar soup turns out perfectly:
- For a richer flavor, sauté the onion and garlic before adding them to the crock pot.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese according to your preference. You can add more for an extra cheesy soup or reduce the amount for a lighter version.
- If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can mash some of the potatoes with a fork instead of blending it completely.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Conclusion
With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and comforting flavors, crock pot potato broccoli cheddar soup is a winner on any occasion. This recipe is incredibly easy to make with the help of a slow cooker, and the end result is a bowl of pure comfort. Customize it with your favorite garnishes and variations to make it your own. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer for a gathering, this soup is sure to satisfy. Give it a try and enjoy the deliciousness!
FAQs
1. Can I freeze the leftover soup?
Yes, you can freeze the leftover soup for up to 3 months. However, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Make sure to cool the soup completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
2. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli if fresh is not available. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the crock pot.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of cheese like Swiss or Gruyere for different flavors. Just keep in mind that the taste and texture of the soup may vary.
4. Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
Yes, you can make a stovetop version of this soup. Simply follow the same steps, but instead of using a crock pot, cook the soup in a large pot on the stovetop over low heat. Simmer until the potatoes and broccoli are tender, then blend and add the cheese and milk as instructed.
5. Can I use milk alternatives like almond or soy milk?
Yes, you can use milk alternatives if you prefer. Just make sure to choose a variety that is unsweetened and unflavored to avoid any conflicting flavors in the soup.
