This Easy Crockpot Potato Soup is warm and creamy, perfect for cozy days! With tender potatoes, hearty veggies, and a sprinkle of cheese, it’s like a hug in a bowl.
Making this soup is a breeze! Just throw everything in the crockpot and let it do its magic. I love having leftovers; it’s even better the next day! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Russet potatoes work great for this soup because they become creamy when cooked. If you prefer a different texture, Yukon golds are a good option too. They are buttery and smooth!
Broth: Chicken broth gives a hearty flavor, but vegetable broth is a perfect vegetarian choice. You could even use homemade broth if you have some on hand for extra taste!
Bacon: Although it adds a savory crunch, it’s optional. You can easily make a vegetarian version by skipping it or replacing it with crispy chickpeas for a protein boost and crispiness!
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is classic here, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or a cheese blend can work too. For a tangy twist, a bit of cream cheese can also add creaminess.
How Do You Get the Creamy Texture Without a Blender?
If you don’t have an immersion blender, don’t worry! You can achieve a creamy texture without blending all the soup.
- Mash a portion of the potato with a fork or potato masher after cooking. This will help thicken the soup while keeping some chunks.
- If you prefer, you can remove a few cups of the soup, blend them in a normal blender, and then stir it back in.
- Adding the sour cream and milk helps create that creamy feel as well, so don’t skip that step!
These tips will help you make your soup just the way you like it. Enjoy cooking!
Easy Crockpot Potato Soup
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)
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, chopped
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
For The Creamy Finish:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
Optional Toppings:
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
- Fresh chives or green onions, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This soup is super easy to make! You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and then a cooking time of 7-8 hours on low or 4 hours on high. Just let your crockpot do all the hard work while you relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by peeling and dicing the russet potatoes. Then chop the onion, celery, and carrots. Finally, mince the garlic. Add all of these vegetables to your crockpot.
2. Add the Broth and Seasonings:
Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the vegetables in the crockpot. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and dried thyme (if using) to give it some flavor.
3. Cook The Soup:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4 hours. The potatoes should be very tender once it’s done cooking.
4. Mash or Blend:
Once cooked, you can either use a potato masher to mash some of the soup for a creamy texture or use an immersion blender to blend it to your desired consistency. Just leave some chunks for that cozy feel!
5. Add Creaminess:
Now it’s time to make it creamy! Stir in the butter, sour cream, and milk (or cream) until everything is nicely combined and smooth.
6. Mix in the Cheese:
Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it melts into the warm soup. This is where the magic happens!
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give your soup a taste, and if it needs more seasoning, feel free to add a bit more salt or pepper.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, topped with crumbled bacon (if you’re using it) and a sprinkle of chives or green onions for a fresh finish!
Enjoy your cozy, comforting crockpot potato soup that’s perfect for chilly days!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Potato Soup
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While russet potatoes give a nice creamy texture, Yukon gold potatoes are also excellent due to their buttery flavor. You can even mix different kinds for more variety!
How Can I Thicken the Soup More?
If you’d like a thicker consistency, you can add a cornstarch slurry. Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little cold water, stir it into the soup, and cook on high for an additional 15 minutes to thicken it up.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the creaminess.
What Are Some Good Toppings for This Soup?
While crumbled bacon and chopped chives are classic toppings, you can also try adding croutons for crunch, a dollop of sour cream, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat!
