There’s something wonderfully comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s a velvety Crockpot Potato Soup. There’s magic in tossing together simple ingredients and letting them meld over hours in a slow cooker. This recipe is a favorite for cozy weeknight dinners, lazy Sunday brunches, or even potlucks where everyone raves about the flavor. The rich, creamy texture paired with savory bacon and melted cheese makes this dish special — just like a warm hug on a chilly night.
Why you’ll love this dish
This Crockpot Potato Soup is a delightful blend of convenience and comfort. With its creamy consistency and hearty flavor, it’s perfectly suited for those busy weeknights when you want something filling but don’t have the time to stand over the stove. It’s also a budget-friendly recipe, making it a favorite for families and those looking to save a little while still enjoying a delicious meal. Plus, the addition of bacon and cheddar cheese ensures that even picky eaters will be asking for seconds.
"This soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! Easy to make and tastes heavenly. My family loved it!" — A happy home cook
The cooking process explained
Making this potato soup couldn’t be easier! You’ll simply layer your ingredients in the crockpot and let them work their magic together. One of the great things about using a slow cooker is how it unlocks deep, rich flavors while keeping the preparation effort to a bare minimum. What’s more, the longer cooking time contributes to potatoes becoming wonderfully tender, allowing you to thicken the soup exactly to your liking with just a fork or potato masher.
What you’ll need
Before you get started, here’s a list of the key ingredients you’ll need for this creamy delight:
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Feel free to swap in your favorite broth and opt for turkey bacon or a vegetarian cheese alternative if you’re looking for dietary adjustments!
Step-by-step instructions
- Begin by placing the diced potatoes and chopped onion in the crockpot.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring the vegetables are well covered.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are nice and tender.
- Once they’re ready, mash some of the potatoes with a fork or a potato masher to achieve a thicker consistency that you enjoy.
- Stir in the heavy cream, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese until everything is creamy and melty.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions for that extra pop of flavor.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving your Crockpot Potato Soup is just as important as making it! Ladle the soup into warm bowls and sprinkle with fresh green onions for a beautiful presentation. You can pair it with crusty bread or homemade biscuits for dipping. A simple side salad rounds out the meal nicely, adding a refreshing crunch to complement the creamy soup.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your leftover soup fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. If you want to enjoy it later, this potato soup freezes beautifully! Spoon the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and it’ll be good for up to three months in the freezer. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best flavor, consider browning the bacon before adding it to the pot — this enhances the overall savory taste. If you’re short on time, you can use frozen diced potatoes, but fresh ones provide a better texture. Don’t hesitate to experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth of flavor!
Creative twists
Feel like trying something new? Here are a few variations to spice up your potato soup:
- Swap in sweet potatoes for a sweeter version.
- Add in some corn or peas for an extra veggie boost.
- For a spicier kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
- Top with sour cream or a sprinkle of paprika for extra flair.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare this soup?
- Overall, the active preparation time is around 15-20 minutes, with the crockpot doing the rest of the work!
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
- Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative, and use a plant-based cheese.
What’s the best way to freeze leftovers?
- Freeze the soup in portioned containers, ensuring they cool completely first. Label them with the date for easy tracking.
How can I make it spicier?
- Introduce diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the pot for a delightful heat.
Incorporating this Crockpot Potato Soup into your repertoire not only offers a delicious experience but also connects your family during mealtime. Whip it up, relax, and let the slow cooker do the work!
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Crockpot Potato Soup
- Total Time: 500 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian (if using plant-based alternatives)
Description
A rich and creamy potato soup made effortlessly in a slow cooker, perfect for cozy dinners and potlucks.
Ingredients
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Place the diced potatoes and chopped onion in the crockpot.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring the vegetables are well covered.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are nice and tender.
- Once ready, mash some of the potatoes with a fork or a potato masher to achieve the desired thickness.
- Stir in the heavy cream, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese until creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.
Notes
For a healthier option, consider using turkey bacon or vegetarian cheese. You can also enhance flavor with herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 480 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American