This warm and creamy crockpot potato soup is a hug in a bowl! Packed with fluffy potatoes, cheese, and a touch of love, it’s a comfort food classic.
What I love about this soup is how easy it is! Just toss everything in the crockpot, go about your day, and come home to a tasty meal. Perfect for chilly nights! 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are ideal for potato soup due to their starch content that creates a creamy texture. If russets aren’t available, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery flavor.
Chicken Broth: This adds depth but if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth. Homemade broth can elevate the flavor even more if you have the time!
Sour Cream: This adds a tangy creaminess. If you want a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute, which still gives that creamy mouthfeel.
Bacon: While it adds a wonderful crunch and smoky flavor, you can omit it for a vegetarian version or use turkey bacon as a leaner alternative. For a plant-based option, try using crispy chickpeas!
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Creamy Texture in My Soup?
Making a creamy potato soup is all about how you treat the potatoes. Here’s what to do:
- Cook the potatoes until they’re very tender; this usually takes 6-8 hours on low.
- About 30 minutes before serving, mash some of the potatoes in the pot. This will help thicken the soup while still keeping some chunky pieces for texture.
- For even creamier results, add shredded cheddar and sour cream after mashing the potatoes. This creates a rich, velvety finish.
- If you want to have a perfectly thick soup, whisk flour into milk or heavy cream before adding it into the slow cooker, allowing it to thicken nicely.
Adjust the seasoning before serving for the best flavor, and don’t forget to garnish with your favorite toppings for a lovely finish!
How to Make Crockpot Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 cup sour cream, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream (for creaminess)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
For Garnishing:
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious crockpot potato soup will take about 10 minutes of prep time. For cooking, it will need 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal that will fill your home with a lovely aroma!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Crockpot:
Start by spraying the inside of your crockpot with non-stick spray or lightly greasing it. This makes for easy cleanup!
2. Add the Vegetables:
In the crockpot, add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. These ingredients will create the delicious base for your soup.
3. Pour in the Broth:
Now, pour the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) over the veggies, ensuring everything is well covered. This will infuse all those lovely flavors as they cook together.
4. Time to Cook:
Cover the crockpot and let it work its magic. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are super tender.
5. Mash It Up:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, mash some of the potatoes with a potato masher right in the crockpot. This will give your soup a creamy, thick texture while still leaving some chunks for that hearty feel.
6. Mix in the Goodies:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream until everything is melted and creamy. Yum!
7. Thicken the Soup (Optional):
If you prefer an even thicker soup, whisk the flour into the milk or heavy cream until you have a smooth mixture. Stir this into the crockpot and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes.
8. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt or pepper if necessary. You want it just right for your taste!
9. Serve and Garnish:
Finally, serve the soup hot, and don’t forget to garnish generously with crispy crumbled bacon, extra cheddar cheese, dollops of sour cream, and sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
This hearty crockpot potato soup is ideal for a cozy meal, especially on cold days. Enjoy every spoonful! 🍲✨
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes give the best creamy texture, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly different flavor and creaminess. Just make sure whatever potatoes you choose are starchy enough for the soup.
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the milk and sour cream with non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk and cashew cream or dairy-free yogurt. You can also use nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor without dairy.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. If it thickens too much, just add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up.
Can I Freeze Potato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze potato soup! Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove, stirring in a little broth or cream to revive its creaminess.
