Crockpot Potato Soup: A Creamy, Comforting Classic

Dive into a world of cozy comfort with this irresistible Crockpot Potato Soup recipe! Imagine a chilly evening, the aroma of creamy potato soup filling your home, and a warm bowl of deliciousness waiting to soothe your soul. This isn’t just any potato soup; it’s a slow-cooked, flavorful masterpiece that’s incredibly easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. From the tender, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes to the rich and savory broth, every spoonful is a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients. This Crockpot Potato Soup recipe is a testament to the power of slow cooking, transforming humble vegetables into a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Get ready to be amazed by how effortless it is to create a hearty, flavorful soup that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe

This Crockpot Potato Soup recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll fall head over heels for it:

• Effortless Preparation: The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Minimal chopping and prepping are required, leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy the process.
• Hands-Off Cooking: Once the ingredients are in the slow cooker, you can practically forget about it! The crockpot does all the work, letting the flavors meld and deepen over time.
• Incredible Flavor: The slow cooking process allows the potatoes to become incredibly tender, while the broth absorbs the flavors of the onions, carrots, and celery, creating a rich and complex taste.
• Customizable to Your Preferences: Love a creamy soup? Use cream instead of milk. Want a bit of smoky flavor? Add bacon! This recipe is easily adapted to your taste buds.
• Perfect for Meal Prepping: Make a large batch on the weekend and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week. It’s just as tasty reheated!
• Budget-Friendly: This recipe utilizes inexpensive, readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for those on a budget.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This Crockpot Potato Soup is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone, from picky eaters to seasoned foodies. It’s the ultimate comfort food.

Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this Crockpot Potato Soup is a true testament to the magic of slow cooking. It’s a recipe that allows the flavors to develop and deepen, creating a depth of taste that’s hard to match with quicker methods. And the best part? The minimal cleanup! After a long day, the last thing you want is a mountain of dishes. This recipe keeps cleanup to a minimum, letting you savor every moment of this comforting meal.

Why You Should Try This Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe

In a world filled with complicated recipes and time-consuming cooking methods, this Crockpot Potato Soup stands out as a beacon of simplicity and deliciousness. Here’s why you should give it a try:

• Experience the magic of slow cooking: Discover how slow cooking unlocks the full potential of your ingredients, resulting in a soup that is both incredibly flavorful and unbelievably tender.
• Enjoy a healthy and wholesome meal: This soup is packed with nutritious vegetables and provides a balanced meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.
• Save time and energy: Let your crockpot do the work, freeing up your time to focus on other things while creating a delicious and hearty meal.
• Impress your family and friends: This Crockpot Potato Soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply a cozy night in.
• Embrace the versatility: Customize the recipe to your liking, adding your favorite spices, toppings, or alternative ingredients. The possibilities are endless!
• Discover a new family favorite: This recipe is so simple and delicious that it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen, a warm hug in a bowl whenever you need it.
• Perfect for all skill levels: Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a delicious outcome.

Ultimately, this Crockpot Potato Soup recipe is an investment in your time, your health, and your happiness. It’s a recipe that delivers on taste, convenience, and satisfaction, making it a worthwhile addition to your culinary repertoire. So ditch the takeout menus and embrace the simple joy of homemade comfort food. You won’t regret it!

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Crockpot Potato Soup

This section details the ingredients and tools you’ll need to make this perfect Crockpot Potato Soup. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process much smoother.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed – Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture and rich flavor. Russet potatoes can also be used, but may result in a slightly less creamy soup.
• 1 large onion, chopped – Yellow onion is a classic choice, but white or red onion can be substituted for a slightly different flavor profile.
• 2 carrots, chopped – Adds sweetness and color to the soup.
• 2 celery stalks, chopped – Adds a subtle savory note to the soup.
• 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option) – Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the soup.
• 2 cups milk (or cream for a richer soup) – Heavy cream will give you a decadent, ultra-creamy soup. Half-and-half is another good option.
• 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt – Adds tanginess and creaminess. Greek yogurt works well too!
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional) – Adds smoky flavor and a delightful textural element.
• 2 tablespoons butter – Unsalted butter is preferred so you can control the salt level.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Provides an earthy aroma and flavor. Fresh thyme can be substituted (use about 2 tablespoons).
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste depending on the saltiness of your broth.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground black pepper is always best.
• Optional toppings: chives, bacon bits, shredded cheese – These add extra visual appeal and flavor dimensions.

Necessary Utensils:

• Large Crockpot (slow cooker) – A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe.
• Chef’s knife – For chopping vegetables. A sharp knife ensures clean cuts and efficient preparation.
• Cutting board – A sturdy cutting board will protect your countertop and provide a stable surface for chopping.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurement.
• Large spoon or spatula – For stirring the soup.
• Immersion blender (recommended) – For easily pureeing the soup to your desired consistency. A regular blender can be used, but requires careful handling of hot liquids.
• Ladle – For serving the soup.
• Serving bowls – For enjoying your delicious Crockpot Potato Soup!
• Bacon pan (if using bacon) – For crisping the bacon prior to crumbling.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Crockpot Potato Soup

Follow these steps to create the most comforting and flavorful Crockpot Potato Soup.

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by peeling and cubing the Yukon Gold potatoes into approximately 1-inch pieces. Chop the onion, carrots, and celery into roughly the same size. Uniform size ensures even cooking.
2. Sauté Aromatics (Optional but Recommended): In your crockpot, melt the butter over medium heat (if your crockpot has a sauté function). Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step enhances the flavor of the soup.
3. Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Add the cubed potatoes, chicken broth (or vegetable broth), dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the crockpot. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are very tender and easily pierced with a fork. **Longer cooking times result in a more intensely flavored soup.**
5. Puree (Optional): Once the potatoes are tender, carefully puree the soup using an immersion blender. **Work in sections to avoid splashing.** If using a regular blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches, allowing it to cool slightly before blending to prevent burns. **Vent the lid to release steam.** Blend until you reach your desired consistency – completely smooth or partially chunky.
6. Stir in Dairy: Stir in the milk (or cream) and sour cream (or yogurt). **Do this gently** to avoid curdling the dairy. Heat through for another 15-20 minutes on low, stirring occasionally. **Do not boil** the soup after adding the dairy, as this can cause it to separate.
7. Add Bacon (Optional): If using bacon, stir in the cooked and crumbled bacon bits.
8. Serve and Garnish: Serve the hot Crockpot Potato Soup immediately. Garnish with your favorite toppings such as chives, additional bacon bits, or shredded cheese. A dollop of extra sour cream is also delicious.

Tips and Variations for Crockpot Potato Soup

This section provides helpful tips and variations to elevate your Crockpot Potato Soup experience.

• For a thicker soup: Use less liquid or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• For a spicier soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup while it’s simmering.
• For a richer flavor: Sauté the vegetables in bacon fat instead of butter.
• Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Ensure your sour cream or yogurt alternative is vegan-friendly.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure that your broth is gluten-free. Most store-bought broths are, but always check the label.
• Add other vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables such as leeks, mushrooms, or green beans. Add them along with the carrots and celery.
• Make it cheesy: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
• Roast the vegetables: For a deeper, more intense flavor, roast the vegetables in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes before adding them to the crockpot.
• Avoid over-blending: If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only a portion of the soup, leaving some potatoes intact for texture.
• Taste and adjust seasonings: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Crockpot Potato Soup

This Crockpot Potato Soup offers a nutritious and delicious meal.

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. These values are calculated per serving based on a recipe yielding 6 servings.

• Calories: Approximately 250-300 per serving (depending on dairy choice)
• Protein: Approximately 8-10 grams per serving (depending on broth choice)
• Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams per serving (depending on dairy and bacon choice)
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35 grams per serving

Benefits of Ingredients:

• Potatoes: Excellent source of potassium, vitamin C, and fiber.
• Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A, important for eye health.
• Celery: Low in calories and a good source of vitamin K and fiber.
• Chicken Broth (or Vegetable Broth): Provides electrolytes and flavor.
• Milk/Cream: Source of calcium and protein.
• Sour Cream/Yogurt: Provides probiotics, beneficial for gut health.
• Bacon (optional): Adds flavor but should be consumed in moderation due to high fat content.

FAQs

Conclusion

This Crockpot Potato Soup recipe is a culinary hug in a bowl – simple to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. The slow-cooked magic transforms humble ingredients into a creamy, comforting masterpiece. From the ease of preparation to the endless customization options, this recipe is a true kitchen winner. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the warm, delicious embrace of homemade Crockpot Potato Soup.

Don’t forget to share your thoughts and pictures in the comments below! And if you’re looking for more delicious recipes to warm your heart and soul, be sure to check out our collection of fall favorites on RecipesLuna.com, including our delightful Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies and our creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

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Creamy Crockpot Potato Soup

This comforting crockpot potato soup is easy to make and packed with flavor. Perfect for a chilly evening!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 minutes mins

Total Time 11 hours hrs

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course, Soup

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold Potatoes peeled and cubed
• 1 Yellow Onion chopped
• 2 Carrots chopped
• 2 Celery Stalks chopped
• 6 cups Chicken Broth (or vegetable broth)
• 2 cups Milk (or cream)
• 1/2 cup Sour Cream or Plain Yogurt
• 4 slices Bacon cooked and crumbled (optional)
• 2 tablespoons Butter
• 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper

Equipment

• Crockpot (Slow Cooker)
• Immersion blender or regular blender
• Large Cutting Board
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

Instructions

1. In a large crockpot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the cubed potatoes, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
3. Stir well to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until potatoes are very tender.
5. Once the potatoes are tender, carefully use an immersion blender to partially or fully puree the soup to your desired consistency. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and puree until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
6. Stir in the milk (or cream) and sour cream (or yogurt). Heat through for another 15-20 minutes on low, stirring occasionally. Do not boil.
7. Stir in the cooked bacon bits (if using).
8. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings, such as chives, bacon bits, or shredded cheese.

Notes

For a thicker soup, use less milk or cream. You can also add other vegetables like corn or peas. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.