Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food – crockpot potato soup! There’s just something so incredibly soothing about a warm bowl of this creamy, hearty goodness on a chilly day. Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the rich aroma of potatoes simmering away, blending perfectly with savory broth and melted cheese. It’s like a big, cozy hug in a bowl! This recipe is super simple and perfect for busy days when you want something delicious waiting for you at the end. Trust me, once you try this crockpot potato soup, it’ll become a staple in your home, just like it is in mine!
Ingredients for Crockpot Potato Soup
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped for a sweet base
- 4 cups chicken broth, or vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist
- 1 cup heavy cream, to add that luscious creaminess
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, because cheese makes everything better!
- 4 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled for topping
- Salt and pepper, to taste for that perfect seasoning
How to Prepare Crockpot Potato Soup
Getting started with this crockpot potato soup is a breeze, and I promise you’ll love how simple it is! First things first, grab your trusty crockpot and let’s get cooking. Here’s how I do it:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Begin by adding the diced potatoes and chopped onion straight into the crockpot. It’s like building the foundation of your soup!
- Next, pour in the chicken broth. This is where the magic begins! Make sure all the potatoes are submerged for even cooking.
- Now, set your crockpot to low and let it work its magic for 6 to 8 hours. If you’re short on time, the high setting will do the job in about 4 hours. Just keep an eye on it!
- When the time’s up, grab a fork or a potato masher and mash some of those potatoes right in the pot. This will give your soup that thicker, creamier texture that’s just divine.
- Now, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, letting it melt into the soup for that rich, delicious flavor. Let it cook for an additional 30 minutes on low to warm everything through.
- Finally, just before serving, sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top and season with salt and pepper to taste. Voila! Your hearty crockpot potato soup is ready to warm your soul.
Tips for Success
To make the best crockpot potato soup, here are a few tips that I swear by! First, choose a mix of starchy and waxy potatoes for the perfect texture. Yukon Golds are my favorite because they’re creamy and hold their shape well. Don’t skip the step of mashing some potatoes; it really amps up the creaminess! If you want to elevate the flavor even more, sauté the onions in a bit of butter before adding them to the crockpot. It adds a lovely depth to the soup. And remember, taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking, and feel free to get creative with toppings—crispy onions or fresh herbs can really make it pop!
Nutritional Information for Crockpot Potato Soup
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are approximate. For a serving size of 1 cup, you can expect about 320 calories, 22g of fat, 8g of protein, and 28g of carbohydrates. It’s also got about 800mg of sodium, which you might want to watch if you’re keeping an eye on salt intake. This crockpot potato soup is hearty and filling, making it a satisfying option for any meal!
Variations of Crockpot Potato Soup
One of the things I love most about this crockpot potato soup is how versatile it is! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’re good to go! You can also mix in other veggies to amp up the nutrition—try adding carrots or celery for extra flavor and crunch, or even some corn for a hint of sweetness. Feeling adventurous? Toss in some diced bell peppers or a handful of spinach for a pop of color! And don’t be shy with the seasonings—experimenting with herbs like thyme or rosemary can really elevate the taste. Each variation brings something deliciously unique to the table!
Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Potato Soup
When it comes to serving this cozy crockpot potato soup, I love to pair it with a few simple sides that really enhance the meal experience! A fresh, crunchy garden salad dressed with a light vinaigrette is perfect for cutting through the creaminess of the soup. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, serve it alongside some warm, crusty bread or a gooey grilled cheese sandwich—oh, the melty goodness! For a touch of elegance, a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley on top of the soup adds a nice pop of color and flavor. Trust me, these additions will take your cozy meal to the next level!
FAQ Section
Can I make this crockpot potato soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I freeze crockpot potato soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk, though keep in mind it will be less rich. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk works surprisingly well!
Can I add protein to this soup?
Absolutely! Shredded chicken or diced ham can be fantastic additions for a heartier soup. Just toss them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking to warm them through.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover crockpot potato soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly before enjoying again!
Crockpot Potato Soup: 6 Steps to Comforting Bliss
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and hearty crockpot potato soup perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add diced potatoes and chopped onion to the crockpot.
- Pour in the chicken broth.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- After cooking, mash some potatoes for a thicker texture.
- Stir in heavy cream and cheese, and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Top with bacon, salt, and pepper before serving.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or celery.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: crockpot potato soup
