This Easy Crockpot Potato Soup is just the thing for chilly nights! With creamy potatoes, tasty broth, and a sprinkle of cheese on top, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
I love how I can toss everything in the crockpot and let it cook while I relax. Perfect for those busy days when comfort food is a must! 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are perfect for soups because they get creamy when cooked. If you want a healthier option, try Yukon Gold potatoes. They have a buttery flavor and hold their shape well.
Chicken Broth: For a vegetarian version, just switch to vegetable broth. I prefer low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the soup.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor. If you want something lighter, go for light cheddar or even Monterey Jack. Vegan cheese can be a good substitute if you’re avoiding dairy.
Bacon: It adds a tasty crunch! If you’re vegetarian, skip the bacon or use a plant-based bacon alternative.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, try using milk or a non-dairy cream, like coconut cream, for a different twist.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Soup Consistency?
Blending the soup helps achieve that creamy texture. Use an immersion blender for easy mixing directly in the crockpot. If you don’t have one, a regular blender works fine—just carefully blend in batches.
- After cooking, let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid splatters.
- Blend until you reach your preferred soup thickness—smooth for creamy or leave some chunks for texture.
- Reheat it after blending to ensure everything is warm and melted.
Tweaking the thickness is part of the fun! Adjust until you’re happy with it, and enjoy your cozy meal! 🥔🌿
Easy Crockpot Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Garnishes:
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy soup requires about 15 minutes of prep time. After that, you’ll need to let it cook in the crockpot for 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. The slow cooking makes the flavors come together beautifully, so you can relax while it does its magic!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot:
In your crockpot, add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Make sure everything is mixed together nicely.
2. Cook the Soup:
Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook. If you’re cooking on low, set the timer for 6 to 8 hours. If you prefer, you can cook it on high for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender!
3. Blend to Your Liking:
Once the potatoes are soft, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your preferred consistency. You can go for a completely smooth texture or leave some chunks for a heartier feel—it’s totally your choice!
4. Add Creaminess:
Stir in the butter, shredded cheddar cheese, and heavy cream. Let it cook on high for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until everything is melted and warmed through. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give your soup a taste and add more salt or pepper if you’d like. Make it perfect just for you!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Serve your soup hot in bowls, and top with crumbled bacon, a dollop of sour cream, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy.
Enjoy your cozy, comforting crockpot potato soup—perfect for those chilly days!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen diced potatoes! Just keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted. Start with the same cooking time, but check for tenderness a bit earlier since frozen potatoes can cook faster.
How Do I Store Leftover Potato Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to bring back the creamy consistency.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon, or add a plant-based bacon alternative if you want that smoky flavor. The soup will still be delicious and hearty!
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
You can mix in some cooked diced ham, sautéed mushrooms, or additional spices like paprika or cayenne for a kick! Fresh herbs like thyme and parsley can also enhance the flavor. Adjust to your taste!
