This Crockpot Potato Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! With tender potatoes, creamy goodness, and tasty seasonings, it’s perfect for chilly days.
I love how simple it is—just toss everything into the pot and let it slow cook. A sprinkle of cheese and some crispy bacon on top makes it extra special. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets. They break down beautifully in the soup, creating that comforting creaminess. If you’re out of Russets, Yukon golds work too—they add a buttery flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a great burst of flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Sour Cream: It adds a nice tang. Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute, giving you that creamy texture with extra protein.
Bacon: While crispy bacon adds great texture, it’s optional. For a vegetarian option, you can substitute with smoked paprika to achieve that smoky flavor without meat.
How Do I Achieve the Creamiest Potato Soup?
The key to a creamy soup is partially mashing the potatoes. This helps thicken the soup while still leaving some chunks for texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Once the soup is cooked, grab a potato masher or an immersion blender.
- Gently mash or blend just some of the potatoes, not all. You want to keep it hearty!
- Mix in your cheeses and creams slowly, letting them melt to create that luscious finish.
Lastly, don’t rush—allowing it to cook for a bit after adding ingredients helps everything meld together wonderfully!
Easy Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe for Cozy Comfort
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 6 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
Liquid Ingredients:
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup heavy cream or half and half
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
- Fresh chives or green onions, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious potato soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and then 6 to 8 hours to cook on low or 3 to 4 hours on high in the crockpot. It’s such a simple dish, and while it cooks, your kitchen will smell amazing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Crockpot:
Start by spraying the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray or greasing it lightly with butter. This will help prevent the soup from sticking and make cleanup easier!
2. Add Your Veggies:
Next, toss in the diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, celery, and carrots into the crockpot. It’s a colorful mix that’s sure to make your soup hearty and healthy!
3. Mix in the Broth and Seasoning:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and sprinkle in the salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Stir everything together to combine the flavors nicely.
4. Cook It Up:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. You want the potatoes and veggies to be nice and tender, so keep an eye on it!
5. Make It Creamy with a Roux:
In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour, cooking it for 1-2 minutes until it turns lightly golden, creating a roux to thicken your soup.
6. Thicken the Soup:
Stir the roux back into the crockpot, mixing well. Let it cook for an extra 15-20 minutes to blend the flavors and thicken the soup.
7. Mash for Creaminess:
Using a potato masher or immersion blender, gently mash some of the potatoes right in the crockpot. This gives your soup that creamy texture while still having some potato chunks!
8. Stir in the Cream and Cheese:
Now, for the best part! Stir in the sour cream, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese until everything is melted and combined. This is what makes your soup rich and delicious!
9. Taste and Adjust:
Give your soup a taste and adjust any seasoning if needed. You want it to be just right!
10. Serve with Love:
Pour the soup into bowls and garnish with crumbled bacon and fresh chives or green onions for a lovely finish. Enjoy your cozy and comforting Crockpot Potato Soup!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Russet potatoes are the best for that creamy texture, Yukon golds can also add a buttery flavor. Just avoid waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes as they don’t break down as well.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a vegan version, replace the sour cream and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives such as coconut cream and cashew or soy yogurt.
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or milk if it thickens up in the fridge.
Can I Freeze This Potato Soup?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
