Crockpot potato soup is a slow-cooked version of the classic potato soup, made in a crockpot or slow cooker. It typically includes potatoes, broth, and dairy products like milk or cream. The slow-cooking process ensures that the potatoes become tender and the flavors meld together beautifully, making it a flavorful and comforting dish.
For best results, cook your Crockpot potato soup on low for 6 to 8 hours. This gives the potatoes time to soften and absorb the flavors from the broth and seasonings. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for about 3 to 4 hours, but the slow cooking method gives the soup its rich taste and smooth texture.
The beauty of Crockpot potato soup lies in its simplicity and versatility. Adding different toppings, like crispy bacon or shredded cheese, enhances the flavor while keeping the process easy. The slow cooker ensures that the potatoes soften perfectly, creating a smooth and creamy base. The hands-off nature of the recipe also makes it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to enjoy a comforting meal with little preparation.
Why You’ll Love It Crockpot Potato Soup
- Easy to Make: Crockpot potato soup is simple to prepare. Just chop the ingredients, throw them in the slow cooker, and let it do the work. No need for constant attention, making it perfect for busy days.
- Comforting and Creamy: This potato soup is rich and creamy, with the perfect balance of smooth texture and hearty potatoes. It’s the ultimate comfort food, especially on cold days or when you want a warm, filling meal.
- Customizable for Any Taste: You can easily adjust this recipe to suit your preferences. Add bacon, cheese, or extra herbs for a personalized touch. It’s a flexible dish that anyone can enjoy, no matter their taste.
Ingredient Notes for a Crockpot Potato Soup
- Potatoes: Potatoes are the main ingredient for this soup. Choose starchy potatoes like russets for a creamy texture. Cut them into chunks for even cooking in the slow cooker. They absorb the flavors of the broth and seasonings, making the soup rich and hearty.
- Onion: Onions add a savory depth to the soup. Chop them finely for even distribution in the soup. They cook down to a sweet flavor, complementing the potatoes perfectly.
- Chicken Broth or Vegetable Broth: Broth gives the soup a flavorful base. Chicken broth adds a rich, meaty taste, while vegetable broth offers a lighter, vegetarian option. Both work well to create a delicious and comforting soup.
- Milk: Milk adds creaminess to the soup. It helps to make the soup smooth and velvety. You can use whole milk, 2%, or even a non-dairy option like almond milk if preferred.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese brings sharpness and richness to the soup. Stir it in at the end of cooking for a gooey, cheesy finish. It melts into the soup, adding flavor and creaminess.
- Sour Cream: Sour cream enhances the flavor with its tangy richness. Stir it in just before serving for a creamy, smooth texture and added depth.
- Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky and savory touch to the soup. Fry the bacon until crispy, then crumble it over the top for a delicious crunch and extra flavor in every bite.
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder gives a mild, aromatic flavor without the strong bite of fresh garlic. It’s a perfect seasoning for the crockpot potato soup, infusing it with a savory taste.
- Black Pepper: Black pepper adds a hint of heat and spice. It balances the creamy and savory flavors, giving the soup a subtle kick.
- Salt: Salt is essential to bring all the flavors together. It enhances the broth and ingredients, making the soup taste fuller and more delicious. Be sure to taste and adjust the salt as needed.
Helpful Tips and Add Your Touch
When making Crockpot potato soup, you can adjust ingredients to match your taste. Start with potatoes, onions, garlic, and broth. Add seasonings like salt, pepper, and thyme to enhance the flavor. The beauty of this dish is its flexibility—experiment with different herbs to make it your own.
To add creaminess to your Crockpot potato soup, use heavy cream or milk. For a richer texture, you can even add sour cream or cheese. If you prefer a lighter version, opt for vegetable broth or low-fat dairy alternatives. This simple tweak will keep the dish satisfying but lighter.
One helpful tip when making Crockpot potato soup is to chop potatoes into uniform pieces. This ensures they cook evenly. For extra flavor, try browning the onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker. The added step deepens the flavor and makes your soup even more delicious.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings for your Crockpot potato soup. Try adding crispy bacon, shredded cheese, or fresh chives. These small touches will give your soup an extra burst of flavor and texture. Your family or guests will love the added crunch and richness.
Crockpot Potato Soup Variation
You can easily customize your crockpot potato soup. For a heartier version, add cooked sausage or shredded chicken. For extra flavor, toss in a bit of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper. Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or even cream cheese to change the texture and taste.
How to Serve Crockpot Potato Soup
Crockpot potato soup can be served as a main dish or as a side. For a complete meal, pair it with a side salad or crusty bread. Add toppings like crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and fresh herbs to elevate the flavor and texture.
This soup also pairs well with a light, refreshing drink such as iced tea or sparkling water. Serve it in a deep bowl with a spoon for easy enjoyment. If you’re hosting, consider adding a variety of toppings for guests to customize their bowls.
Storage Options
Crockpot potato soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency.
For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat as usual. Be aware that potatoes may slightly change texture after freezing, but the flavor remains excellent.
FAQs About Crockpot Potato Soup
How long does it take to cook crockpot potato soup?
Typically, crockpot potato soup takes 6-8 hours on low heat or 3-4 hours on high. The potatoes should be tender and easy to mash when ready.
Can I make crockpot potato soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare crockpot potato soup a day before serving. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving.
Can I freeze crockpot potato soup?
Yes, crockpot potato soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring to an airtight container for freezing.
How can I make crockpot potato soup thicker?
To thicken your crockpot potato soup, mash some of the potatoes directly in the crockpot or add a flour or cornstarch slurry. This will give the soup a creamy, hearty texture.
Best Slow Cooker Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the Crockpot: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes, diced onion, and garlic powder into the crockpot. Add the broth and stir to combine.
- Season: Add salt, pepper, and onion powder to taste. Stir again.
- Set and Wait: Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 6-8 hours. If you're short on time, you can set it on high for 3-4 hours. The potatoes should be tender when done.
- Mash the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are soft, take a potato masher and mash some of the potatoes in the crockpot to thicken the soup. You can leave some chunks for texture.
- Add the Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth.
- Add Bacon (Optional): Stir in crumbled bacon for added flavor, or sprinkle it on top when serving.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot!
Notes