Name: Creamy Crockpot Cheesy Potato Broccoli Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and diced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, thinly sliced; 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Nothing hits the spot like a warm, velvety bowl of Creamy Crockpot Cheesy Potato Broccoli Soup. This is my ultimate comfort food — rich, hearty, and packed with creamy cheddar, tender potatoes, and bright green broccoli. I love making this on days when I need something easy yet satisfying. It fills the house with the most delicious aroma while slowly cooking, and by dinner time, it’s ready to ladle into bowls and top with even more cheese.

What makes this soup a standout is the way all the ingredients meld together in the slow cooker. You barely have to lift a finger — just toss everything in, walk away, and return to a soup that tastes like you’ve been stirring it lovingly all day. I’ve tried several versions over the years, but this one is hands-down my favorite for its balance of flavor, texture, and ease.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Crockpot Cheesy Potato Broccoli Soup

This recipe is a weeknight hero. It’s simple to prep, totally hands-off thanks to the crockpot, and family-approved every single time. It brings a perfect blend of creaminess from the cheese and richness from the potatoes, while the broccoli adds freshness and a pop of color. Whether you’re cooking for kids or adults, it’s a cozy hit that always disappears fast.

What Kind of Cheese Works Best in Creamy Potato Broccoli Soup?

I always recommend using sharp cheddar for that deep, cheesy flavor that cuts through the richness of the soup. It melts beautifully and pairs perfectly with potatoes and broccoli. If you’re looking for an extra silky finish, you can also add a small amount of Velveeta or cream cheese. But truly, freshly shredded cheddar is the star here — skip the pre-shredded kind for the smoothest result.

Options for Substitutions

You can easily tailor this soup to fit what you have on hand or meet dietary preferences. Swap out the cheddar for a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding lactose. No broccoli? Cauliflower works just as well. Want more protein? Add shredded rotisserie chicken or even crispy bacon on top. And if you’re looking to cut carbs, you can use cauliflower instead of potatoes while still keeping the creamy texture.

Ingredients for this Creamy Crockpot Cheesy Potato Broccoli Soup

Russet Potatoes – These provide the hearty, starchy base and help create the soup’s creamy texture as they break down slightly during slow cooking.
Broccoli Florets – Adds freshness, vibrant color, and a light crunch that balances the richness of the soup.
Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Melts into the soup for bold, cheesy flavor that makes every bite irresistible.
Onion – Gives a subtle aromatic flavor that enhances the depth of the soup.
Garlic – A few cloves go a long way in boosting the overall flavor profile.
Carrots – Add a hint of sweetness and color, making the soup more well-rounded.
Vegetable or Chicken Broth – Forms the liquid base and infuses the soup with savory depth.
Milk – Helps achieve the creamy consistency; whole milk is ideal for richness.
Heavy Cream – Adds luxurious thickness to the final texture.
Butter – Used for flavor and to help sauté aromatics if you choose to do that step.
Flour – Acts as a thickening agent when mixed with butter to create a roux.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and balance.

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Peel and dice the potatoes into small chunks for quicker cooking. Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Dice the onion and thinly slice the carrots. Mince the garlic finely.

Step 2: Assemble Ingredients in the Crockpot

Place the diced potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic into the crockpot. Pour in the broth and stir to combine. Set your crockpot to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Step 3: Blend Some of the Soup (Optional)

For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup while it’s still in the crockpot. This step is optional but gives a creamy base without removing the chunky texture entirely.

Step 4: Add Broccoli and Finish the Base

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the broccoli florets. Let them cook until just tender. In a small saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux. Slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth and thickened. Add this mixture to the crockpot and stir.

Step 5: Stir in the Cheese

Add shredded cheddar cheese to the crockpot and stir until melted and creamy. Be sure the heat is on low or warm — you don’t want the cheese to curdle.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra shredded cheese, a sprinkle of black pepper, or even crumbled bacon if desired.

How Long to Prepare the Creamy Crockpot Cheesy Potato Broccoli Soup

Prep Time: Most of the work for this soup is upfront and takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Chopping the vegetables—especially the potatoes and broccoli—can take a bit of time, but once that’s done, everything goes straight into the crockpot.

Cook Time: On low, this soup cooks perfectly in 6 to 7 hours, giving the flavors time to meld beautifully and the potatoes to soften just right. If you’re short on time, you can set your crockpot to high and finish in about 3 to 4 hours. Add the broccoli during the last 30 minutes either way.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Crockpot Cheesy Potato Broccoli Soup

Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese — it melts smoother than pre-shredded which often contains anti-caking agents.
Cut your potatoes and broccoli into even pieces so they cook uniformly.
Add the cheese at the very end and keep the heat low to avoid separation or a gritty texture.
For a thicker soup, puree part of it before adding the cheese.
Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end — the broth and cheese already bring saltiness, so start light.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the broccoli: Add it too early and it will become mushy and discolored.
Adding cheese at high heat: It can separate and give the soup a grainy texture.
Skipping the roux: This creamy step helps stabilize the dairy and gives the soup its rich consistency.
Not blending enough: If your soup is too chunky, blending part of it helps bring everything together.
Not seasoning in layers: Always taste the broth before serving — it might need just a bit more salt or pepper.

What to Serve With Creamy Crockpot Cheesy Potato Broccoli Soup?

1. Crusty Garlic Bread

The ultimate pairing for scooping up every last drop of soup.

2. Simple Green Salad

A light, crisp salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.

3. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Go all-in on the comfort factor with this melty, toasty companion.

4. Baked Potato Skins

Loaded potato skins echo the flavors of the soup in a fun appetizer.

5. Roasted Veggies

Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower add texture and contrast nicely.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Let the soup cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently.

Freezer: You can freeze this soup, though be aware the texture may change slightly due to the dairy. Use freezer-safe containers and leave room at the top for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating Tips: Reheat slowly over low heat and avoid boiling once the cheese has been added to maintain a smooth texture.

Estimated Nutrition

Calories: 350 per serving
Protein: 12g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 800mg

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of potatoes work best?

Russet potatoes are ideal because they break down slightly, adding to the soup’s creamy texture.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and skip any meat-based toppings.

How do I prevent the cheese from curdling?

Make sure the soup is not boiling when you add the cheese and stir gently until melted.

Can I make this on the stovetop instead?

Yes, just simmer everything (except cheese and broccoli) in a large pot until tender, then add broccoli and finish with the cheese and cream as instructed.

Is this soup gluten-free?

As long as you use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch for the roux, it can be made gluten-free.

Conclusion

Creamy Crockpot Cheesy Potato Broccoli Soup is the kind of dish that turns a simple weeknight into something special. It’s rich, nourishing, and packed with flavor — and thanks to the slow cooker, it’s also wonderfully low-effort. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this soup delivers both comfort and convenience in every bowl.