This Easy Crockpot Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food! Just pop some creamy potatoes, onions, and broth into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you relax.
Nothing beats the aroma of a cozy soup bubbling away at home! I love topping mine with cheese and crispy bacon for an extra treat. It’s so simple, even my cat thinks she can make it. 😸
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I like using Russet potatoes for their starchy texture. They create a nice creaminess. However, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes as alternatives. Just remember that different types may yield slightly different textures.
Broth: Chicken broth adds great flavor, but if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is a perfect substitute! You could also use homemade broth for more depth.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice that melts beautifully. If you’re in the mood for something different, Monterey Jack or Gouda can work well too.
Sour Cream: If you’re avoiding dairy, try plain Greek yogurt or a dairy-free sour cream alternative. It can give you a tangy flavor without the milk.
Bacon: For a vegetarian version, simply skip the bacon or try crispy tempeh instead for that meaty crunch!
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy Texture?
Getting that creamy texture without overdoing it can be tricky! Here’s how to achieve it:
- Cook the soup until the potatoes are fork-tender, which usually means 6-8 hours on low.
- Once tender, use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes directly in the crockpot. This keeps some chunks for a lovely texture!
- If you have an immersion blender, gently blend a bit for extra creaminess but don’t go overboard.
This technique allows creamy goodness without losing the heartiness of the potatoes. Enjoy your delicious potato soup! 🍵
Easy Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe for Cozy Comfort
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 medium potatoes (about 3 pounds), peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy potato soup recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 6-8 hours of cooking in the crockpot on low or 3-4 hours on high. Just set it and forget it! Perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal waiting for you at dinner time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by peeling and dicing your potatoes. You want them to be in small, even pieces for quick cooking. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Once done, place all these ingredients into the crockpot.
2. Add the Broth:
Pour the chicken broth over the diced potatoes, onion, and garlic. It should cover the veggies nicely. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together a bit.
3. Cook the Soup:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook. Choose the low setting for 6-8 hours or the high setting for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender enough to easily pierce with a fork.
4. Mash the Potatoes:
Once the cooking time is up, take a potato masher or an immersion blender and mash some of the potatoes right in the crockpot. This will create a creamy and slightly chunky texture! Do this according to your preference.
5. Add Creaminess:
Now it’s time to add the fun stuff! Stir in the butter, shredded cheddar cheese, milk (or half-and-half), and sour cream. Mix well until everything is melted and blended to a creamy perfection.
6. Season to Taste:
Give your soup a taste! Add salt and pepper according to your liking. You can add more cheese if you’d like it cheesier!
7. Serve and Garnish:
It’s time to enjoy your delicious soup! Serve it hot in bowls, topping each bowl with crumbled bacon (if using) and a sprinkle of sliced green onions for a fresh crunch.
Enjoy your warm, comforting crockpot potato soup that’s perfect for cozy evenings! 🥣✨
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes for This Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen diced potatoes! Just add them to the crockpot without thawing. You may need to increase the cooking time by about 30 minutes since they’ll take longer to cook through.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
To make this soup vegan, simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon. You can also use a plant-based sour cream and cheese to keep it creamy and delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep everything and store it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, just toss it into the crockpot and cook as directed. Note that you may need to adjust the cooking time depending on whether the ingredients are cold when you start.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
