This Easy Crockpot Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort dish! With creamy potatoes, hearty broth, and a dash of seasoning, it warms you right up. Just set it and forget it!
What I love most is that you can toss everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic while you relax. Perfect for chilly days when you need some extra coziness! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using russet potatoes for their creamy texture. You can also try Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery flavor. If you’re in a pinch, baby potatoes work too; just chop them in half.
Broth: Chicken broth gives a rich flavor, but if you’re vegetarian or vegan, opt for vegetable broth. Homemade broth is great if you have it, but store-bought is a quick alternative.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but feel free to mix it up! Gouda or Monterey Jack add a lovely creaminess. For a lighter version, use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Bacon: If you want to skip the meat, leave the bacon out or use turkey bacon. You might also try crispy chickpeas or tempeh for a plant-based crunch.
How Do I Get the Right Texture for My Soup?
The texture is key for potato soup! After cooking, you want to blend it just enough to create a creamy base while still keeping some of the potato chunks. Here’s how:
- Once the potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender directly in the crockpot for a quick blend. This keeps it simple!
- If you don’t have an immersion blender, scoop out half of the soup and blend it in a regular blender before mixing it back in.
- Blend until smooth, or leave some potato pieces for a heartier bite. This balance makes each spoonful delightful!
Enjoy crafting this warm and inviting soup! It’s perfect for cold nights and so easy to make.
Easy Crockpot Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious potato soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare, then you’ll let the crockpot work its magic. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until those potatoes are super tender. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Having everything prepped makes the next steps a breeze!
2. Load the Crockpot:
Throw the diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, and chicken (or vegetable) broth into your crockpot. Give it a little stir to mix everything together.
3. Cook It Up:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Let the delicious aroma fill your kitchen while it cooks! You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are nice and tender.
4. Blend the Soup:
Once cooked, take an immersion blender and blend the soup a bit, leaving some potato chunks for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully scoop out half the soup, blend until smooth in a regular blender, then mix it back into the pot.
5. Add Creaminess:
Stir in the butter, milk (or cream), and shredded cheddar cheese until everything is melted and creamy. This step is what makes your soup so rich and comforting!
6. Season and Serve:
Give the soup a taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve it hot, topped with crumbled bacon (if using) and garnish with chopped green onions or chives for a fresh touch.
Enjoy your cozy meal with this simple and delicious crockpot potato soup! It’s perfect for any chilly evening. 😊
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Potato Soup
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes in This Recipe?
While fresh potatoes are ideal for this recipe, you can use frozen diced potatoes. Just note that they may release extra moisture, so consider reducing the amount of broth slightly to avoid a soupy consistency.
How Do I Store Leftover Potato Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain its creamy texture.
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, use dairy-free cream or milk alternatives, and omit the bacon or use a plant-based bacon substitute. You’ll still enjoy a delicious, hearty soup!
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
Feel free to experiment by adding chopped carrots, celery, or even a bay leaf for added depth of flavor. You can also mix in spices like paprika or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick!
