This Easy Crockpot Potato Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! Made with creamy potatoes, cheese, and just the right spices, it’s perfect for chilly days.
Plus, all you have to do is toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the magic. I love pairing it with some crispy bread. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are great for soup because they become soft and creamy when cooked. If you want to switch it up, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery taste or red potatoes for a firmer texture.
Broth: Chicken broth adds a nice depth of flavor. If you’re vegetarian or just prefer a lighter option, vegetable broth works perfectly. Homemade broth can elevate your soup, but store-bought is super convenient!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is a favorite for its rich flavor. You can substitute it with Monterey Jack or even a dairy-free cheese if you want to keep it vegan.
Bacon: Adding crumbled bacon brings in a nice crunch. For a vegetarian option, try crispy chickpeas or extra crispy tofu instead. They give a nice texture without the meat.
How Do You Achieve the Creamy Texture?
The key to a creamy potato soup is in the mashing technique. After the potatoes are fully cooked, you want to partially mash them, leaving some chunks for a delightful bite. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a potato masher directly in the crockpot. Mash to your desired consistency.
- If you have an immersion blender, give the mixture a few quick blends for extra creaminess.
- After mashing, add the cheese, sour cream, and milk for that rich, velvety soup.
Mixing these ingredients well helps create that comforting, creamy base we all love!
Easy Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe for Cozy Meals
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
- 3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- 2 tbsp butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious potato soup will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then let your crockpot do the work for 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So when you’re ready for a cozy meal, just set it and forget it until dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by peeling and dicing your potatoes into small cubes. This helps them cook evenly in the crockpot. You want them small enough to soften nicely but chunky enough to give the soup texture.
2. Add Ingredients to the Crockpot:
Place the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic in the crockpot. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and sprinkle in the dried thyme if you’re using it. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
3. Let It Cook:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are super tender and easy to mash.
4. Mash the Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are cooked, take a potato masher or immersion blender and mash them right in the crockpot. You want to mash them enough to create a creamy texture but still leave some potato chunks for a hearty bite.
5. Add Creaminess:
Now, stir in the butter, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and milk. Mix everything well until the cheese is melted and the soup is wonderfully creamy.
6. Season:
Add salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your preference!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm potato soup hot, garnished with crumbled bacon and sliced green onions if desired. This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or crackers for a cozy meal.
Enjoy every spoonful of your comforting crockpot potato soup!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Potato Soup
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While russet potatoes are great for their creaminess, you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery flavor or red potatoes for a firmer texture. Just remember, different types may alter the final consistency of the soup slightly.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed for creaminess.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover potato soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, let the soup cool, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, skip the bacon or substitute with crispy chickpeas, and ensure that your cheese and sour cream are vegetarian-friendly. The soup will still be delicious and creamy!
