Easy Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the ultimate comfort food made easy. This creamy, cheesy soup blends tender potatoes, hearty broccoli, and sharp cheddar into a rich, satisfying bowl that I can set and forget in the slow cooker. It’s cozy, filling, and full of flavor—the kind of meal I crave when I want something warm and comforting without a lot of effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how the slow cooker does all the work while I go about my day. The combination of potatoes and broccoli makes it both hearty and nutritious, while the cheddar cheese melts in to give it a velvety finish. It’s perfect for meal prep, budget-friendly, and family-approved. Whether I serve it for a weeknight dinner or a lazy weekend lunch, it always hits the spot.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced

• Fresh or frozen broccoli florets

• Carrots, shredded or diced

• Onion, chopped

• Garlic, minced

• Vegetable or chicken broth

• Salt and pepper

• Cheddar cheese, shredded

• Heavy cream or half-and-half

• Butter

Directions

1. I start by adding the diced potatoes, broccoli, carrots, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.

2. I pour in the broth and give it a quick stir to combine everything.

3. I cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes and broccoli are tender.

4. Once cooked, I use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup for a creamy texture while leaving some chunks for heartiness. If I don’t have one, I mash some of the potatoes with a fork right in the crockpot.

5. I stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until smooth and melted.

6. I finish by stirring in a bit of butter for extra richness and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings. It takes 10–15 minutes to prep and 6–7 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high in the crockpot. That makes it ideal for tossing together in the morning and enjoying a hot meal by dinner time.

Variations

I sometimes add cooked bacon or ham for extra protein and smoky flavor. For a spicy kick, I stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce. If I want to make it lighter, I use milk instead of cream and reduce the cheese slightly. I’ve also added cauliflower or spinach when I want more veggies in the mix.

Storage/reheating

I store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months—I just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. To reheat, I warm it on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave in 1-minute increments, stirring in between. I might add a splash of milk or broth if it has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, I often use frozen broccoli and add it in at the beginning along with the other ingredients. It cooks down nicely in the crockpot.

What type of potatoes work best?

I usually go with russet for a fluffier texture or Yukon gold for a creamier bite. Both hold up well during the long cooking time.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely. I just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure the cheese is vegetarian-friendly.

How can I thicken the soup?

If I want it thicker, I mash more of the potatoes or let it simmer uncovered for a bit before adding the cream and cheese. I avoid adding flour or cornstarch unless absolutely necessary.

What cheese is best for this soup?

I stick with sharp cheddar for bold flavor. I always grate it myself because pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly due to added anti-caking agents.

Conclusion

Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a cozy, comforting meal that I can count on any day of the week. It’s easy, flavorful, and packed with everything I love—cheese, potatoes, and veggies—all in one creamy bowl. Whether I’m feeding my family or just looking to meal prep something warm and satisfying, this soup always delivers.