This Easy Crockpot Potato Soup is creamy, hearty, and perfect for chilly days! Just toss in potatoes, broth, and your favorite seasonings and let the slow cooker do all the work.
I love how this soup makes the house smell amazing while it cooks. Plus, it’s so easy to grab some crusty bread to dunk in. Yum! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I like using Russet potatoes for a creamy texture, but you can swap in Yukon Golds for a buttery taste. Just make sure to peel and dice them evenly for consistent cooking.
Onion: A sweet onion adds great flavor. If you’re short on time, you could use onion powder (about 1-2 teaspoons) instead, but fresh is best for taste!
Broth: Home-made broth is fantastic, but store-bought works just as well. For a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is a perfect substitute.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds wonderful tang. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using reduced-fat cheese or leave it out altogether.
Bacon: It adds a delicious crunch! If you’re vegetarian, consider using crispy chickpeas or smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor.
How Do I Get Creamy Soup Without Overdoing It?
Achieving that rich and creamy texture is key! Here’s how to do it:
- After cooking, use a potato masher to break down some of the potatoes, leaving some chunks for texture.
- If you prefer an ultra-smooth option, you can use an immersion blender. Blend to your desired consistency!
- When adding sour cream and milk, do it slowly while stirring to prevent curdling. Heat on low to mix well before serving.
By following these steps, you’ll have a deliciously creamy potato soup that’s perfect for warming up on a cold day!
Easy Crockpot Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup Base:
- 6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
For Creaminess and Flavor:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or parsley (optional)
For Garnishing:
- 1/4 cup green onions or chives, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy potato soup takes about 10 minutes of prep time and cooks in the crockpot for 6-8 hours on low, or 3-4 hours on high. So, you can set it and forget it while it does all the hard work for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small pieces, so they cook evenly. Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic. These will create the flavorful base of your soup.
2. Add to the Crockpot:
Place the diced potatoes, chopped onions, and minced garlic into the crockpot. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Season with salt, pepper, and any dried herbs if you’d like to add some extra flavor.
3. Let It Cook:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook. If you’re home all day or want the flavors to really meld together, cook on low for 6-8 hours. If you’re in a hurry, go for high heat, and it will be ready in 3-4 hours.
4. Mash for Creaminess:
Once everything is nice and tender, take a potato masher or an immersion blender and lightly mash some of the potatoes to create a creamy texture while leaving some bits for that rustic feel. You can blend as much or as little as you like!
5. Incorporate Creamy Goodness:
Stir in the butter, sour cream, and milk (or heavy cream) into the mixture until everything is well combined and heated through. This is where the soup becomes wonderfully rich and creamy!
6. Cheesy and Savory:
Add in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon if using. Stir it in until the cheese is melted and everything is deliciously combined. Take a moment to taste it, and see if it needs any extra seasoning.
7. Serve it Up:
Finally, serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped green onions or chives. This lovely touch adds a burst of freshness to each bowl!
Now, enjoy your cozy, comforting crockpot potato soup! It’s perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a warm pick-me-up. 🌟
FAQs for Easy Crockpot Potato Soup
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be used for a healthier twist! They will provide a slightly different flavor and sweetness, so adjust seasonings if desired. Just be aware that they may cook faster, so check for tenderness around 4 hours on low heat.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the bacon. You can add extra beans or lentils for protein and texture if you’d like. It’ll still be delicious and hearty!
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or heat in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes! This potato soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It should stay good for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it has thickened.
