This Easy Crockpot Potato Soup is creamy and warm, perfect for chilly days. It’s packed with tasty potatoes, veggies, and just the right spices to make your taste buds smile!
Who doesn’t love a soup that practically makes itself? Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic while you kick back. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! 🥔❤️
I appreciate how I can prep this soup in minutes and let it cook while I do other things. It’s become my go-to for easy weeknight meals that the whole family enjoys!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are perfect for soup as they break down nicely, creating a creamy texture. You can substitute with Yukon Gold if you prefer a slightly buttery flavor or use sweet potatoes for a healthier twist.
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds great flavor but feel free to use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. Homemade or low-sodium varieties can give you more control over salt content.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a nice tang to the soup. If you’re looking for a different flavor, Monterey Jack or Gruyère work well too. For a vegan choice, try vegan cheese shreds.
Bacon: While bacon adds a delicious crunch and smokiness, you can easily skip it for a vegetarian version. Crumbled tempeh or plant-based bacon can be great alternatives for vegans.
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Texture?
The key to achieving a creamy and chunky texture is the way you mash the potatoes. Here’s how to do it right:
- Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher for a rustic look; mash just a few to create creaminess while leaving some whole for texture.
- If you want it super smooth, an immersion blender is great. Blend just part of the soup to keep some chunks.
This technique allows you to customize the consistency to your liking without making it too puréed. Add the cream and cheese afterward to enhance that comforting richness!
Easy Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe for Cozy Meals
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 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)
For Creaminess and Flavor:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup sour cream
For Topping (Optional):
- 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives for garnish
Seasoning:
- 2 teaspoons salt, adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for warmth)
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy potato soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then cooks for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in your crockpot. Just set it up and let it do the work while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Your Ingredients:
Start by peeling the russet potatoes and dicing them into bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. The smaller the pieces, the quicker they’ll cook!
2. Load the Crockpot:
In your crockpot, combine the diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, salt, pepper, smoked paprika (if using), and thyme. Give everything a good stir to mix it well.
3. Set It and Forget It:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. This is where the magic happens!
4. Mash for Texture:
Once the potatoes are soft, take a potato masher or an immersion blender and mash some of the potatoes to create a creamy texture, leaving some pieces chunky for that homey feel.
5. Stir in the Creamy Ingredients:
Add the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream into the mixture. Stir until everything is well combined and the cheese melts into that rich, creamy goodness.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Now’s the time to taste your soup! Adjust the seasonings with more salt or pepper if needed. You can always add a little extra smoked paprika for more warmth if you like.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out your cozy soup while it’s hot! Top with crumbled bacon if you’re using it, and sprinkle with green onions or chives for that fresh touch. Enjoy your comforting bowl of goodness!
8. Cozy Leftovers:
This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready for seconds.
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Potato Soup
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes work great for their creaminess, you can also use Yukon Gold for a buttery flavor or even sweet potatoes for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Potato Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Yes! You can easily make the soup vegan by using vegetable broth, plant-based cream, and vegan cheese instead of the dairy products. Skipping the bacon or using a plant-based alternative will keep it completely vegan-friendly!
How Do I Thicken the Soup If It’s Too Thin?
If your soup ends up a bit too thin, you can thicken it by mixing a couple of tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then stir that into the soup and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until thickened. Alternatively, mash more potatoes to achieve your desired consistency!
