There’s something heartwarming about a bowl of creamy, homemade potato soup, especially as the days grow cooler. With this crock pot recipe, you can easily create a comforting dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Let’s dive into the ingredients, preparation steps, and some tips for perfecting this delightful soup.
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Why Crock Pot Potato Soup?
Potato soup, especially when made in a crock pot, is the ultimate comfort food. Using a slow cooker not only makes it simple but also enhances the flavors as the ingredients cook together gradually. This method allows you to set it up and walk away, making it ideal for busy days. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping, or simply looking for a cozy meal, this crock pot potato soup is a versatile choice.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for a delicious batch of crock pot potato soup. This recipe yields about six servings.
Soup Base
- 5–6 medium russet potatoes (peeled and diced into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 large yellow onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low sodium preferred for better control over saltiness)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for a rich and creamy texture)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, but adds a delightful flavor)
Seasonings
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (for a hint of smoky flavor)
- 1–2 bay leaves (for a subtle depth in taste)
Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (such as cremini or button mushrooms, to add an earthy richness)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives (for garnish)
- Cooked and crumbled bacon (for an extra savory topping)
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create a comforting bowl of crock pot potato soup.
Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by peeling and dicing the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Then, finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. If using mushrooms, clean and slice them. Preparing everything beforehand makes the assembly quick and simple.
Layer the Ingredients in the Crock Pot
Place the diced potatoes at the bottom of the crock pot. Next, add the chopped onions, minced garlic, and optional mushrooms on top. These ingredients will cook evenly and blend together as they simmer.
Pour in the Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, covering the potatoes and vegetables. Add the dried thyme, paprika, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to mix the seasonings throughout the soup base.
Cook on Low or High
Cover the crock pot and cook the soup on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. Cooking on low allows the flavors to deepen gradually, but if you’re short on time, the high setting works well too.
Mash or Blend the Soup for Creaminess
Once the potatoes are tender and fully cooked, remove the bay leaves. Using a potato masher, gently mash the potatoes inside the crock pot. For a smoother consistency, you can use an immersion blender, blending until the soup reaches your desired texture.
Add the Cream and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream to give the soup a rich, velvety texture. If you want an extra creamy finish, add a cup of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and thoroughly combined. The cheese adds an extra depth of flavor that complements the potatoes beautifully.
Taste and Adjust Seasoning
After the cream and cheese are incorporated, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or a dash of paprika as desired.
Serve and Garnish
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish each bowl with fresh chives for a pop of color and a hint of oniony flavor. For extra flair, add crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of cheese on top. Serve immediately and enjoy the warming comfort of homemade potato soup.
Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Potato Soup
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best as they break down nicely, creating a creamy texture. However, Yukon Gold potatoes can also add a buttery flavor if you prefer.
- Control Consistency: For a thicker soup, mash more potatoes or blend a larger portion. If it’s too thick, add more broth or a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Enhance Flavor with Mushrooms: If using mushrooms, sauté them briefly before adding to the crock pot. This step adds depth and enhances their earthy flavor, making them a perfect optional ingredient.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy creamer if you’re looking for a dairy-free version.
- Add a Protein: This soup pairs wonderfully with bacon or diced ham for a heartier meal.
Variations on the Classic Potato Soup
Potato soup can take on many delicious twists, so feel free to get creative! Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
- Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Top with sour cream, chives, bacon bits, and extra cheese to turn this into a fully loaded baked potato soup.
- Broccoli Potato Soup: Add a cup of chopped broccoli florets during the last hour of cooking. This variation brings in extra nutrition and a pleasant texture contrast.
- Spicy Potato Soup: Stir in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. This option works well for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Cauliflower Potato Soup: Add half a head of cauliflower florets for a nutrient-packed twist. Cauliflower blends in seamlessly, adding creaminess without altering the classic taste.
Why Mushrooms?
Mushrooms add an earthy, umami-rich note to this potato soup, giving it depth and a unique flavor. While entirely optional, mushrooms complement the creamy texture of the potatoes, making the soup even more satisfying. For those who love mushrooms, adding them is a simple way to elevate this classic dish.
Serving and Storing Crock Pot Potato Soup
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this soup with crusty bread, homemade croutons, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. The rich creaminess pairs well with crunchy sides, and bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop.
Storing and Reheating:
Refrigerate any leftover soup in an airtight container for up to three days. When reheating, warm on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, and add a splash of broth or milk if the soup thickened in the fridge.
Freezing Tips:
Potato soup can be frozen, but dairy tends to separate when thawed. For best results, freeze before adding the cream and cheese. Then, add those ingredients when you’re ready to reheat.
Conclusion
This crock pot potato soup delivers on flavor, ease, and comfort. With simple ingredients and optional mushrooms for added depth, this recipe suits any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal.
Try out this versatile recipe, garnish with your favorite toppings, and enjoy a bowl of pure comfort that brings warmth to the soul.
