Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes for even cooking. You can leave the skins on for added texture and nutrients, but peeling them will give you a smoother soup.
2. Chop the onion and mince the garlic for added flavor.
3. Cut the broccoli into small florets. If you’re using frozen broccoli, no need to thaw it first; just toss it in frozen!

Step 2: Add the Ingredients to the Crock Pot

1. Place the diced potatoes, broccoli florets, chopped onion, and minced garlic into the Crock Pot.
2. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, making sure the ingredients are mostly submerged. Add the butter, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Stir to combine the ingredients.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

1. Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes and broccoli are tender.
2. Once the soup is fully cooked, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash or blend part of the soup. If you prefer a smooth texture, blend it until silky. If you like a chunkier soup, mash lightly, leaving some of the potato and broccoli pieces intact.

Step 4: Add the Cheese and Cream

1. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and let it melt completely. The cheese will thicken the soup and add a rich, creamy texture.
2. Pour in the heavy cream or whole milk, and stir to combine. The cream will give the soup a luscious, velvety consistency.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serve

1. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper, if needed.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives, and a dash of paprika if desired for a pop of color and flavor.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Serve this creamy, cheesy soup with warm bread or crackers on the side for a complete meal. The comforting flavors and creamy texture will surely hit the spot!

Why You’ll Love Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

• Hands-Off Cooking: The Crock Pot does all the hard work for you. Simply add the ingredients, let it cook, and you’ll be ready to enjoy a delicious meal without any hassle.
• Creamy & Cheesy: The addition of cheddar cheese and cream makes this soup ultra-creamy and rich, with the perfect balance of flavors.
• Hearty & Filling: The potatoes provide a hearty base while the broccoli adds a burst of nutrition, making this soup a satisfying meal that’s sure to keep you full.
• Customizable: You can adjust the thickness of the soup by mashing more or less of the potatoes. Add extra cheese for a cheesier version or use low-fat milk to make it lighter.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: This soup is ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any time you need a warm and cozy meal. Whether it’s a family dinner, a weekend lunch, or a dinner party, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Tips for Success:

• For a smoother texture: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the Crock Pot, or transfer half of the soup to a blender and return it to the pot.
• For extra flavor: You can sauté the onions and garlic in butter or olive oil before adding them to the Crock Pot to enhance their flavors.
• Add-ins: For extra richness, you can add a handful of cooked bacon bits or shredded rotisserie chicken to the soup.
• Freezer-Friendly: This soup can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just cool it completely, transfer it to an airtight container, and freeze. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal.

Conclusion:

This Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a perfect meal for busy days when you crave something comforting and delicious. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, all while being incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting a cozy gathering, this soup is sure to satisfy everyone’s hunger and leave them asking for seconds. Enjoy the cheesy goodness and the cozy vibes this soup brings!