This cozy crockpot potato soup is your go-to dish for chilly days! With soft potatoes, creamy goodness, and just the right touch of seasoning, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
Honestly, it’s so easy to make! Just throw everything in the crockpot, let it cook, and enjoy the delicious smell filling your home. I love to top mine with cheese and crispy bacon—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I love using Russet potatoes; they’re perfect for a creamy texture. If you want to try something different, Yukon Gold potatoes work well too!
Chicken Broth: I usually opt for low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to control salt levels. If you don’t have broth, water with a pinch of salt can do the trick.
Cheddar Cheese: Mild cheddar gives a nice creaminess, but sharp cheddar adds a lovely bite. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan cheese alternative or skip it entirely.
Sour Cream: For a tangy flavor, use full-fat sour cream. Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a healthier option with a similar texture.
How Do I Cook the Potatoes Perfectly in a Crockpot?
The key to perfect potatoes in your soup is letting them cook long enough to become tender. Start with diced potatoes and make sure they’re uniform in size for even cooking. Here’s how:
- Add them to your crockpot with onions and garlic first so they soak up all those flavors.
- Cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Check for tenderness with a fork—if they’re soft, they’re ready!
- For a little texture, mash only part of the potatoes instead of fully blending them. It makes the soup hearty!
Enjoy crafting your cozy potato soup with these tips!
Easy Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe for Cozy Meals
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 6 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
Creamy Additions:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped (optional)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
Flavoring and Garnishing:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or parsley (optional)
- 3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delightful potato soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and then you’ll let the crockpot do all the work! Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. A cozy meal is just a few hours away!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by placing the diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and chicken broth into your crockpot. Make sure everything is mixed in well, so all the flavors combine!
2. Season It Up:
Add salt, black pepper, and dried thyme or parsley if you’re using it. Give everything a gentle stir to distribute the seasonings a bit.
3. Let It Cook:
Cover the crockpot and let it cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are very tender!
4. Mash for Texture:
Once the potatoes are cooked, take a potato masher or immersion blender and mash the soup slightly. You want some chunks for texture, so don’t blend completely! Just enough to make it creamy.
5. Add Creaminess:
Stir in the butter, sour cream, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is melted and creamy. Yummy!
6. Mix in Bacon (Optional):
If you’re using bacon, add the cooked bacon pieces and stir to combine. It adds a nice crunch and flavor to the soup!
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give your soup a taste and add more salt and pepper if needed. Adjust to your liking to make it just right!
8. Serve it Up:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with sliced green onions and extra cheese or bacon on top if you’d like. Enjoy this warm and comforting meal!
Enjoy your cozy, easy crockpot potato soup!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Red or Yellow Potatoes Instead of Russet?
Absolutely! Red or Yukon Gold potatoes work well too. They have a creamier texture and hold their shape better, giving your soup a slightly different but delicious taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Potato Soup?
Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just thaw in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free sour cream alternative, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based milk, and choose a dairy-free cheese for topping. The flavors will still be delightful!
What Can I Serve with This Potato Soup?
This potato soup is perfect on its own, but you can serve it with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for a complete meal. Enjoy dipping your bread in that creamy goodness!
