Step 1: Introduction

There’s nothing like a bowl of creamy, hearty soup to warm you up on a chilly day. This Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender potatoes, nutritious broccoli, and melty cheddar cheese into a velvety, flavorful broth. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a cozy gathering, this recipe is a perfect fit.

What sets this soup apart is its simplicity. Thanks to the crock pot, it’s mostly hands-off, allowing the flavors to meld together as it slowly simmers. While the base of shredded hash browns saves time on peeling and chopping potatoes, the addition of fresh broccoli and carrots keeps the dish wholesome. Herbed cream cheese and sharp cheddar give it a decadent creaminess that’s hard to resist.

Pair it with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad, and you have a satisfying, fuss-free meal. Whether served as a starter or the main event, this soup is guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in veggies while enjoying the cheesy, savory flavors we all love.

Step 2: Why This Recipe is Perfect

This recipe ticks all the boxes for a family favorite. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Effortless Preparation: Using a crock pot means minimal effort. Just toss the ingredients in, let it cook, and enjoy a warm, hearty meal with little active time in the kitchen.
Perfect Texture and Flavor: The combination of tender potatoes, broccoli florets, and carrots creates a soup with just the right balance of creaminess and texture. The herbed cream cheese and sharp cheddar add richness and a hint of tang.
Nutrient-Packed: Broccoli and carrots not only provide a pop of color but also deliver vitamins, minerals, and fiber. You can feel good about serving this soup to your family.
Customizable: Whether you want to add crispy bacon bits, extra veggies, or a touch of spice, this soup adapts to your preferences.
Great for Any Occasion: This soup is versatile enough to serve at casual dinners, potlucks, or as a comforting meal when you’re craving something warm and indulgent.
Make-Ahead Friendly: The soup reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep. Leftovers taste even better as the flavors deepen over time.

Step 3: Ingredients List

This recipe serves 4-6 people and uses simple, readily available ingredients:

For the Soup

4 cups shredded hash browns (thawed): Saves time and gives the soup its hearty, potato-filled base. 🥔
3 cups broccoli florets (chopped into small pieces): Adds a vibrant, nutritious element. 🥦
1 cup shredded carrot: Provides a hint of sweetness and extra color. 🥕
1 shallot (or ½ small sweet onion, minced): For a mild onion flavor. 🧅
3 cups sodium-reduced chicken broth: Forms the base of the soup. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. 🍲
4 oz herbed cream cheese (½ cup): Adds creaminess and a touch of savory herbs. 🧀
1 cup milk (2% fat or higher): Helps create a smooth, creamy texture. 🥛
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star ingredient for rich, cheesy flavor. 🧀
½ teaspoon garlic powder: For a subtle garlicky undertone. 🧄
½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory flavors. 🧅
Salt and black pepper: To season the soup to taste. 🧂🌶️

Optional Garnishes

Extra shredded cheddar cheese 🧀
Crispy bacon bits 🥓
Fresh chives 🌱

Step 4: Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Base

Place the shredded hash browns, chopped broccoli, shredded carrot, and minced shallot into the crock pot.
Pour in the chicken broth, and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

2️⃣ Slow Cook the Soup

Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Check that the potatoes and broccoli are tender before proceeding.

3️⃣ Add the Creamy Elements

Once the vegetables are soft, stir in the herbed cream cheese and milk. Mix until the cream cheese fully melts and incorporates into the soup.

4️⃣ Add the Cheese

Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, letting it melt completely. Stir frequently to avoid clumps and ensure a smooth, cheesy broth. Adjust the soup’s thickness by adding a splash of milk or broth if needed.

5️⃣ Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with additional shredded cheddar, crispy bacon bits, or fresh chives, if desired. Serve hot with warm bread, crackers, or a side of garlic toast for the perfect meal.

Step 5: Equipment Needed

To make this Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Here’s a detailed list of everything required to prepare and serve this comforting soup:

Crock Pot (Slow Cooker)
- The most crucial piece of equipment! A 4-6 quart crock pot is sufficient for this recipe. It allows for slow, even cooking, letting flavors develop over time. The “set-it-and-forget-it” convenience is unbeatable.
Sharp Chef’s Knife
- Essential for chopping fresh broccoli florets, shredding carrots (if not pre-shredded), and dicing the shallot or onion. A sharp knife ensures precise cuts and faster prep.
Cutting Board
- Provides a clean, sturdy surface for chopping veggies. It’s best to have a dedicated board for produce to avoid cross-contamination.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
- For accurately measuring ingredients like broth, milk, cream cheese, seasonings, and spices. Precision is key to getting the flavor balance just right.
Mixing Spoon or Ladle
- A long-handled spoon or ladle is useful for stirring ingredients, ensuring an even cook, and serving the soup when it’s ready.
Grater or Box Grater
- If you’re shredding fresh cheddar cheese, a grater will be necessary. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded, packaged cheese.
Serving Bowls and Spoons
- To serve the final product, you’ll need bowls large enough to hold a hearty serving of soup. Spoons with a deep bowl are ideal for enjoying the creamy soup base.
Optional: Immersion Blender
- If you prefer a smoother texture, an immersion blender can be used to blend part of the soup directly in the crock pot. This step is optional, as the shredded potatoes naturally create a thick texture.

By having these tools on hand, you’ll be fully prepared to create this flavorful soup with ease.

Step 6: Tips, Swaps, and Variations

Want to customize your Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup? Here are some expert tips, ingredient swaps, and creative variations to make it your own:

1. Tips for Success

Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: To keep the broccoli vibrant and tender, add it later in the cooking process (about halfway through) if you prefer it with a bit of bite.
Avoid Grainy Cheese: Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Consistency Adjustments: If the soup is too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to thin it to your desired consistency.

2. Ingredient Swaps

Broccoli: Swap with cauliflower for a twist on the classic flavor.
Cheese: Substitute sharp cheddar with gouda, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor.
Herbed Cream Cheese: If you can’t find herbed cream cheese, use plain cream cheese and add Italian seasoning or fresh herbs.
Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to make it vegetarian-friendly.

3. Flavor Variations

Add Protein: Stir in shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, or diced ham for a heartier soup.
Spice It Up: Add red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Make It Chunky: For a chunky texture, avoid blending and keep the broccoli and carrots in larger pieces.
Creamier Texture: Use heavy cream instead of milk for a more indulgent, rich consistency.

With these customizations, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy this cozy, delicious soup.

Step 7: Storage and Pairings

This Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is just as delicious the next day! Here’s how to store it properly and what to serve alongside it.

1. Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freezing: This soup can be frozen, but dairy-based soups can sometimes change in texture. For best results, freeze before adding the cream cheese, milk, and cheddar. Thaw and stir in the dairy components after reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring often. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to adjust the consistency.

2. Pairing Suggestions

Bread: Pair with warm crusty bread, garlic bread, or dinner rolls to soak up every drop of the creamy broth.
Salads: Serve with a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
Sandwiches: A classic grilled cheese or turkey panini perfectly complements the cheesy, hearty flavors of the soup.

With proper storage and the right pairings, you’ll have a versatile meal that’s as good the next day as it is fresh from the pot.

Step 8: FAQs

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about making this Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

1. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth, and ensure the cheddar cheese and cream cheese are vegetarian-friendly.

2. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of hash browns?
Absolutely! Peel and dice fresh potatoes into small, bite-sized pieces before adding them to the crock pot. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best.

3. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes! Check that your chicken broth, cream cheese, and shredded cheese are gluten-free. The core ingredients of this soup are naturally gluten-free.

4. Why is my soup grainy?
Grainy soup is often caused by pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents. To avoid this, shred fresh cheddar cheese and stir it in gradually over low heat.

5. How can I thicken or thin the soup?
To thicken, mash some of the potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water) and cook for 10 minutes. To thin, add milk or broth and stir until the desired consistency is reached.

6. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but it’s best to add frozen broccoli halfway through the cooking time to prevent overcooking. No need to thaw—just toss it straight into the pot.

7. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between. If too thick, add milk or broth.

8. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Diced celery, leeks, or corn are great additions. Add them at the beginning of the cooking process with the carrots and potatoes.

With these FAQs answered, you’ll be ready to master the perfect bowl of Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup every time! 🍲

Crock Pot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup