Crockpot potato soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days when you crave something hearty yet easy to prepare. This creamy, cheesy soup is made effortlessly in your slow cooker, allowing you to come home to a delicious meal after a busy day. Loaded with tender potatoes, savory bacon, and the richness of cheese and sour cream, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
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Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe
One of the main attractions of this crockpot potato soup recipe is its simplicity. It requires just a few basic ingredients, and the slow cooker does most of the work for you. The result is a rich, creamy soup that’s loaded with flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or preparing it for a crowd, this soup is guaranteed to satisfy.
Additionally, it’s versatile. You can adjust the flavors and add-ins to suit your preferences. From crispy bacon to sharp cheddar cheese, you can top this soup with all your favorite ingredients to make it truly your own.
Ingredients for Crockpot Potato Soup
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this comforting crockpot potato soup:
• Potatoes: The base of the soup, contributing soft texture and heartiness.
• Chicken Broth: Provides depth of flavor and richness to the soup.
• Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory element that pairs perfectly with the potatoes.
• Milk: Ensures the soup is creamy without being too heavy.
• Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese adds both flavor and color to the soup.
• Sour Cream: Balances the richness of the soup and enhances its creaminess.
• Onion: Adds savory undertones to the flavor profile.
• Garlic: Brings in a depth of flavor, making the soup aromatic and inviting.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that highlight the other flavors.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you’re looking for variations or substitutions, here are a few options:
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and opt for veggie broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly soup.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk and sour cream with coconut milk and dairy-free sour cream.
• Protein Boost: For a more filling meal, add cooked chicken or leftover ham for extra protein.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this crockpot potato soup is easy with these simple steps:
- Begin by adding the potatoes, chicken broth, bacon, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper to the crockpot. Stir everything together, ensuring the potatoes are well-coated in the broth.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 5-6 hours. The soup is done when the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, lightly mash them with a potato masher to achieve your desired consistency. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender.
- Add butter, flour, milk, shredded cheese, and sour cream to the crockpot. Stir to combine, and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour until the soup reaches a thick and creamy texture.
- Serve the soup hot, garnishing with your favorite toppings such as green onions, extra cheese, bacon bits, or even a dollop of sour cream.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Crockpot Potato Soup
To make your crockpot potato soup even better, here are some helpful tips:
- Grate Your Own Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts much better than pre-shredded cheese. It will integrate smoothly into the soup for the best texture.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, add more broth or milk. For a thicker soup, mash the potatoes more thoroughly or let it cook longer.
- Store Leftovers: This soup is perfect for leftovers. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove when ready to serve.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
Crockpot potato soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and toppings. Here are a few ideas:
• Bread: Serve with a side of freshly baked breadsticks or a crusty baguette for a complete meal.
• Salad: A light, fresh chopped salad can balance out the richness of the soup.
• Sandwiches: Pair your soup with a club sandwich or a grilled cheese for a comforting combination.
• Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add a splash of hot sauce or some jalapeños for a spicy variation.
Health Benefits of Crockpot Potato Soup
This hearty potato soup, despite being creamy and rich, is lighter than many other comfort foods, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying yet not overly indulgent meal. Potatoes provide a good source of vitamins and minerals, and the addition of bacon and cheese gives it the protein boost needed to keep you full and satisfied. It’s the ideal dish for cold weather or when you need a cozy meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Conclusion
This crockpot potato soup is everything you want in a comfort food dish—easy to make, rich in flavor, and totally customizable. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this recipe delivers satisfying, creamy goodness with minimal effort. It’s the perfect meal for any occasion, and you’ll likely find yourself making it over and over again.
FAQ Section
1. Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use different types of potatoes, though Russet potatoes are ideal because they mash well and create a creamy texture. Yukon Gold potatoes are another great option if you prefer a slightly richer flavor. Just ensure the potatoes are peeled and cut into small chunks for even cooking.
2. Can I make this crockpot potato soup without bacon?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a vegetarian version or simply prefer to skip the bacon, you can omit it and substitute it with extra seasoning, such as smoked paprika or liquid smoke, to add some depth. You could also add vegetables like corn or bell peppers for a different twist.
3. How can I thicken my potato soup if it’s too runny?
If your soup is too thin, you can thicken it by mashing the potatoes more thoroughly or adding a bit more flour and butter to the mixture. Another option is to cook the soup longer on low heat to reduce the liquid. If you want a super creamy soup, consider using an immersion blender to blend part of the soup for a thicker consistency.
More Relevant Recipes
Crockpot Potato Soup
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy crockpot potato soup is a comforting, creamy, and flavorful dish that requires minimal effort. Made with tender potatoes, savory bacon, and topped with cheese and sour cream, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs large potatoes, peeled and cubed into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz cooked bacon, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper, or to taste
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Add the potatoes, chicken broth, cooked bacon, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper to the crockpot. Stir everything together.
- Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 5-6 hours until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Once the potatoes are tender, lightly mash them to your desired consistency. Use an immersion blender for a smoother texture if desired.
- Add butter, flour, milk, shredded cheese, and sour cream to the crockpot. Stir to combine.
- Cook for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour on low until the soup reaches a creamy consistency.
- Garnish with green onions and any other toppings you like. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Grate the cheese yourself for better melting.
- If you want a thicker soup, mash the potatoes more thoroughly.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This soup is best served with breadsticks or a light salad on the side.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 436 kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 830mg
- Fat: 37g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 37mg
