This cozy Crockpot Potato Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Made with simple ingredients like potatoes, onions, and broth, it’s perfect for chilly days.
What I love most is how easy it is! Just toss everything in the crockpot, let it simmer, and enjoy the yummy smell filling your home. Seriously, can it get any better? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: For this soup, I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. They become creamy and delicious when cooked. If you’re short on time, you could use pre-diced frozen potatoes as a quick alternative!
Onions: Chopped onion adds depth to the flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can swap it with shallots or leave it out altogether. You could also use onion powder if you prefer.
Bacon: Bacon brings a nice crunch! If you want a vegetarian version, try using smoked paprika for that smoky flavor. You can also use turkey bacon if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Cheese: Cheddar is best for its sharp flavor. However, feel free to use Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a vegan cheese alternative if you want a dairy-free version!
Sour Cream: For creaminess, sour cream works great. You can substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier kick or a dairy-free yogurt if needed.
How Do I Get the Right Creaminess in My Soup?
Achieving the perfect creaminess can transform your potato soup! Here’s how:
- Once potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender to blend some of the soup right in the crockpot. This keeps some chunks for texture.
- If you don’t have an immersion blender, scoop out half, blend until smooth, and then return it to the pot.
- Adding milk or heavy cream helps adjust the thickness. Start with half a cup, and add more after tasting until you reach your preferred creaminess.
Remember, blend gradually and taste often. You’ll find your perfect balance! Enjoy your cooking experience! 😊
How to Make Crockpot Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups peeled and diced potatoes (about 5-6 medium potatoes)
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (reserve some for garnish)
- 1 cup sour cream, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 to 1 cup milk or heavy cream (adjust for desired creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot Potato Soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and then 6-8 hours on low (or 3-4 hours on high) to cook. It’s perfect for a busy day, just set it in the morning and enjoy it for dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Crockpot:
Start by spraying your crockpot with some non-stick spray or lightly greasing it. This will help prevent the soup from sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Add the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and chicken or vegetable broth into the crockpot. Give it a little stir to mix everything up!
3. Let It Cook:
Cover the crockpot and let the soup cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 3-4 hours. It’s ready when the potatoes are nice and tender!
4. Blend for Creaminess:
Once your potatoes are soft, use an immersion blender to blend some of the soup until creamy, leaving some potato chunks for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer half of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and then return it to the crockpot.
5. Add Cheese and Cream:
Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and milk or heavy cream. Mix until the cheese is melted and everything is creamy and delicious.
6. Season to Taste:
Don’t forget to add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This will really enhance the flavors!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon, a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese, dollops of sour cream, and sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
8. Enjoy:
Serve hot and enjoy your comforting, creamy Crockpot Potato Soup! It’s perfect for sharing with family or enjoying on your own. Happy eating!
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes for This Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen diced potatoes! Just add them directly to the crockpot without thawing. Keep in mind that the cooking time may be slightly longer—check for tenderness before blending.
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No problem! You can use vegetable broth as a substitute, or even water with a bit of additional seasoning to enhance the flavor. Just make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
How Do I Store Leftover Potato Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup for longer storage—just let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, use vegetable broth, replace the cream and sour cream with coconut milk or a plant-based yogurt, and skip the bacon or use a vegan bacon alternative. It’ll still be deliciously creamy!
