🥣 Slow Cooker Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup
📝 Description:
This creamy, hearty soup is comfort food at its finest — a rich blend of tender broccoli, soft potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese in a velvety base. Perfect for cozy nights, this slow cooker soup requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor with every spoonful.
🍽️ Servings:
6 to 8 servings
⏱️ Prep Time:
10 minutes
⏱️ Cook Time:
4–6 hours (on low) or 2.5–3 hours (on high)
🧂 Ingredients:
- 32 oz (about 4 cups) frozen broccoli florets
- 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional for extra flavor)
- 2 cups milk (or half-and-half for creamier texture)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: extra shredded cheese, croutons, or green onions
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Layer Ingredients: Add broccoli, potatoes, soups, onion (if using), garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper into the slow cooker.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 2.5–3 hours, until potatoes are tender.
- Add Dairy: Stir in milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Let it melt and stir until the soup is creamy.
- Blend (Optional): For a smoother texture, blend half the soup with an immersion blender or standard blender, then return to the pot.
- Taste and Adjust: Add more salt, pepper, or cheese as needed.
- Serve: Garnish as desired and serve hot!
💡 Tips:
- Cheese Choice: Use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese (which contains anti-caking agents) for best meltability.
- Make it Vegetarian: Use cream of celery or extra cream of mushroom instead of cream of chicken.
- Thicker Soup? Reduce milk or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp cold water).
- Creamier Version: Use heavy cream or evaporated milk.
📊 Nutritional Info (per serving, based on 8 servings):
| Nutrient | Approx. Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 260–310 kcal |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Sodium | 700–900mg |
Note: These values vary based on ingredients used, like cheese and milk type.
🌿 Health Benefits:
- Broccoli: Rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Supports immune health and digestion.
- Potatoes: Provide potassium, vitamin B6, and energy-rich complex carbs.
- Cheddar Cheese: Adds calcium and protein — best enjoyed in moderation.
- Comfort Food Factor: Nourishes not just your body, but your mood too!
❓ Q&A:
Q: Can I use fresh broccoli?
A: Yes! Use about 4 cups of chopped fresh broccoli. Add during the first step or halfway if you like it firmer.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. It keeps well refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, but dairy-based soups may slightly change texture after thawing. Stir well when reheating.
Q: What protein can I add?
A: Cooked shredded chicken, ham, or even crispy bacon bits make great additions.