When you want a warm, comforting meal, nothing beats a hearty bowl of potato soup made in a crock pot. This dish delivers not only the comfort you crave but also the wonderful aroma that fills your home as it simmers throughout the day. With minimal prep time and a blend of rich flavors, this crock pot potato soup is a perfect go-to recipe for busy weeknights or chilly weekends.
Why We Love This Crock Pot Potato Soup Recipe
What makes this potato soup so special? For starters, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. Just throw the ingredients into your crock pot, set the timer, and let it do the work for you. You’ll enjoy a deliciously creamy soup without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of diced potatoes, aromatic onions, and savory garlic cooks together beautifully in the broth, creating a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. Plus, you can customize the soup with various toppings, making it a versatile dish. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this soup is sure to please everyone!
Ingredients about Crock Pot Potato Soup
- 4 large potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cream or milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, green onions, crispy bacon
These simple ingredients come together to create a comforting and flavorful soup that you can enjoy any time of year. The choice between chicken or vegetable broth gives you the option to cater to your dietary preferences while still retaining that delicious soup flavor.
How to Make Crock Pot Potato Soup Directions
Making crock pot potato soup is simple and straightforward. Start by preparing your ingredients. Dice the potatoes into small cubes, chop the onion finely, and mince the garlic. Once you have your vegetables ready, it’s time to get cooking!
- Layer the Vegetables: Begin by placing the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic into your crock pot. Arrange them evenly to allow for proper cooking.
- Add Broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. This will be the base of your soup, imparting great flavor throughout the cooking process.
- Season It Up: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the contents in the crock pot. This step is essential for enhancing the flavors. You can always adjust the seasoning later, so start with a little and taste as it cooks.
- Cover and Cook: Secure the lid on your crock pot. You can choose to cook your soup on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Cooking it slowly allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and you’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender.
- Add Cream or Milk: About 30 minutes before serving, take the lid off and stir in the cream or milk. This addition will give your soup that rich, creamy texture that is so satisfying.
- Mash for Texture: Use a potato masher to mash the soup to your desired consistency. Depending on your preference, you can leave some chunks for texture or mash it completely smooth.
- Final Touches: Once the soup is ready, serve it hot. Encourage your guests to add their favorite toppings, whether it’s shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or even crispy bacon if you desire.
With these easy steps, you’ll have a delicious and comforting crock pot potato soup that is perfect for any occasion.
How to Serve Crock Pot Potato Soup
Serving crock pot potato soup is an enjoyable experience. You can ladle the hot soup into bowls and let everyone top it off with their favorite ingredients. Consider offering a variety of toppings in small bowls on the side, like:
- Shredded cheese: A mix of cheddar, mozzarella, or any cheese you love can add a great creamy texture.
- Green onions: Sliced green onions provide a fresh, zesty crunch that complements the soup perfectly.
- Croutons: For those who enjoy a little crunch, offering some croutons adds a delightful texture contrast.
Be sure to provide a basket of fresh bread or rolls on the side. The bread is perfect for dipping into your creamy soup, making each bite even more satisfying. Encourage your family and friends to make their bowls unique, allowing them to create a dish that suits their taste buds.
Expert Tips: Crock Pot Potato Soup
- Choose the Right Potatoes: For the best results, go for starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. They break down nicely and create a creamy consistency.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking Time: The magic of a crock pot lies in its slow cooking abilities. If you can, resist the urge to check on it too often. Let the flavors combine for maximum taste.
- Adjust Your Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving. You may want to add more salt or pepper based on your preference.
- Make It A Meal: You can easily transform this soup into a more substantial meal by adding additional vegetables like carrots or corn or protein like shredded chicken.
- Thicken It Up: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash more of the potatoes or blend part of the soup and then mix it back in.
How to Store Crock Pot Potato Soup
If you have leftovers, storing your crock pot potato soup is simple. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for longer, consider freezing. Transfer the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. Your potato soup can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
To reheat, simply thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then heat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm. You might want to add a splash of cream or broth if it thickens too much during storage.
Variation of Crock Pot Potato Soup
Crock pot potato soup offers a canvas for numerous delicious variations. Here are a few ideas you can try:
- Cheesy Potato Soup: Stir in shredded cheese along with the cream or milk for an extra cheesy flavor. Cheddar or Monterey Jack works particularly well.
- Loaded Potato Soup: Take it to the next level by adding toppings like diced tomatoes, sautéed vegetables, or your choice of protein, such as ham or turkey, during the last hour of cooking.
- Herb-Infused Soup: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to introduce some aromatic flavors. These herbs enhance the overall taste and provide a fragrant soup.
- Spicy Variation: If you enjoy heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to bring some warmth to your soup.
- Vegetarian or Vegan Option: For a vegetarian-friendly version, stick with vegetable broth and use plant-based cream or milk. You can also incorporate other vegetables like carrots and bell peppers to enrich the flavor.
By playing around with different ingredients and toppings, you will create a new version of this classic dish each time you make it.
FAQ
What are the best potatoes for potato soup?
For potato soup, starchy potatoes such as Russet or Yukon Gold are the best options. They break down well and provide a creamy texture.
Can I freeze crock pot potato soup?
Yes, you can freeze crock pot potato soup. Allow it to cool, then store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
How long should I cook potato soup in a crock pot?
You can cook potato soup in a crock pot on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Cooking on low allows for deeper flavor development.
How can I make the soup thicker?
To thicken your soup, mash more potatoes or blend a portion of it and return it to the pot. Adjust the thickness to your liking.
What toppings can I add to crock pot potato soup?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, green onions, croutons, and whatever else you like! Customize your bowl for the perfect finish to the soup.
Crock Pot Potato Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, diced Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds work best.
- 1 onion, chopped Enhances flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Adds aromatic depth.
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth Choose based on dietary preference.
- 1 cup cream or milk For a rich and creamy texture.
- to taste salt and pepper Adjust seasoning as needed.
Optional Toppings
- to taste shredded cheese Cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite.
- to taste green onions Sliced for garnish.
- to taste crispy bacon Optional for added flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Dice the potatoes into small cubes, chop the onion finely, and mince the garlic.
Cooking
- Layer the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic evenly in the crock pot.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper over the ingredients in the pot.
- Cover with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cream or milk.
- Use a potato masher to mash the soup to your desired consistency.
- Serve hot with optional toppings.
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