This Easy Crockpot Potato Soup is warm and creamy, perfect for chilly days. Just toss in some potatoes, broth, and spices, then let the slow cooker do its magic!
I love how simple it is—just set it and forget it! Plus, you can add toppings like cheese or crispy bacon. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl. 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Regular white or yellow potatoes work best for this soup. However, you can use red potatoes or Yukon Gold for a different texture. If you’re low on potatoes, you can also add cauliflower for a low-carb twist!
Broth: Chicken broth adds a rich flavor, but vegetable broth is a great vegetarian option. You can even use stock if you have it on hand, or water in a pinch, just add more spices!
Cream: While I like using heavy cream for added richness, you can use milk or even a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk. Coconut milk also adds a nice flavor!
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to swap in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder taste. For a fun twist, try a spicy cheese like pepper jack!
How Do I Get the Best Texture for the Soup?
The trick to a great texture is in the mixing! After your potatoes are cooked until tender, use a potato masher or an immersion blender. For the creamiest soup, blend about half, so you have some chunky bits left for character.
- Start by only partially mashing or blending, this keeps it hearty!
- Stir in your milk or cream gradually for desired thickness.
- Let the soup warm for an additional 15-20 minutes after adding the cream to meld the flavors.
Easy Crockpot Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 cups peeled and diced potatoes (about 5-6 medium potatoes)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving (optional):
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup sour cream
- Chopped green onions or chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful potato soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare, followed by 7-8 hours of cooking on low heat or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. So, set it in the morning and enjoy a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by peeling and dicing your potatoes. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Once everything is prepped, you can easily toss it into the crockpot.
2. Load the Crockpot:
Place the diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, butter, dried thyme, salt, and pepper into your crockpot. Pour in the broth—this forms the base of your lovely soup!
3. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the potatoes are nice and tender. No need to peek too often; just let it work its magic!
4. Mash for Creaminess:
Once the cooking time is up, grab a potato masher or an immersion blender. Gently mash some of the potatoes for a creamy texture, but leave some chunks for heartiness. This gives the soup a perfect mix of smooth and chunky!
5. Final Touches:
Stir in the milk or heavy cream and sour cream if you’re using it. Give it a good mix and let it warm for an additional 15-20 minutes to incorporate those delicious flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now for the fun part! Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve it hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions or chives. Enjoy your cozy bowl of goodness!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Potato Soup
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen diced potatoes! Just add them directly to the crockpot without thawing. You may need to increase the cooking time by about 30 minutes to ensure they cook through.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the bacon topping. You can enhance flavors with more herbs or add veggies like carrots or celery for extra bulk!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and cook the soup a day in advance, then refrigerate it. Reheat on the stove before serving, and adjust the consistency with a splash of broth or milk if needed.
