Last fall, when leaves turned and air grew cool, I remembered a special evening. It was a gray day with brief sun peeks. I was tired and hungry after work.
So, I made my favorite slow cooker potato soup. It’s warm and satisfying. I used diced Yukon gold potatoes, chicken stock, and a bit of seasoning.
My crockpot worked its magic while I relaxed. The kitchen filled with a cozy aroma. It felt like a big hug after a long day.
That day, I knew crockpot potato soup was perfect for cozy dinners. It’s easy, flavorful, and feels like home.
Why Choose Crockpot Potato Soup?
Choosing an easy crockpot potato soup is great for many reasons. It’s a comforting dish that’s easy to make. Just chop the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the rest. This way, you get to enjoy delicious flavors without much work.
The slow cooker makes cooking easy. You only need to chop for 15-20 minutes. Then, you can relax while your meal cooks. It’s perfect for busy nights.
Convenience of Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is all about ease. You can set your ingredients in the slow cooker and forget about it. It turns simple ingredients into a rich and creamy soup.
Rich and Creamy Flavor
The flavor of this soup is amazing. It’s made with Yukon gold potatoes, garlic, and broth. These ingredients make the soup filling and tasty.
The slow cooking makes the potatoes tender. This brings out their sweetness and makes the soup creamy. It’s a simple dish that tastes like a gourmet meal.
Ingredients for the Best Crockpot Potato Soup
Making the best crockpot potato soup needs the right ingredients. They should mix well to get that creamy texture. For my homemade soup, I use key ingredients that are always ready. Here’s what you need for this cozy dish.
Essential Ingredients
- 4 pounds of russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- ½ cup of chopped yellow onion
- 2 cloves of minced garlic
- 2 stalks of finely diced celery
- 2 (14-ounce) cans of low-sodium chicken broth or one 28-ounce carton
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 cups of half and half for creaminess
- Thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled (for flavor)
- Shredded cheddar cheese, added during the cooking process
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 tablespoons of flour, to thicken
- Sour cream for serving
Optional Toppings
Adding your own touch to homemade crockpot potato soup is simple. Here are some ideas:
- Chopped scallions
- Additional shredded cheese
- Crispy bacon bits
- Dollops of sour cream
These ingredients make a dish that serves 8 and warms your heart. Using top-quality ingredients makes the flavors bright and fulfilling.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Potato Soup
Making a tasty potato soup in your crockpot is easy. Following simple steps makes it fun and ensures a creamy soup every time. Let’s go through the steps to get a delicious soup.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, get your ingredients ready: peel and cut 1.5 pounds of russet potatoes. Also, chop one onion.
- In your crockpot, mix the potatoes, onion, 4 cups of chicken stock, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 0.5 teaspoon of black pepper.
- Add 8 ounces of cream cheese and one 10.5 oz can of gluten-free cream of chicken soup for rich flavor.
- For extra texture, add one ranch seasoning packet.
- Stir everything well and cover the crockpot with the lid.
- Set your crockpot to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, depending on your schedule.
- When the potatoes are soft, blend the soup until smooth. Then, stir in any optional toppings.
Cooking Time and Temperature Guidelines
The cooking time is 4 to 6 hours on low. For quicker soup, use the high setting for about 3 hours. The cooking time affects the soup’s texture and taste.
This method of making crockpot soup is easy and forgiving. It lets you enjoy homemade soup with little effort.
Tips for a Creamy Crockpot Potato Soup
Creating a creamy crockpot potato soup is easy with the right ingredients. I have some tips to make your potato soup taste great.
Choosing the Right Potatoes
Yukon Gold potatoes are the best for creamy potato soup. They are naturally creamy and buttery. You don’t need to peel them.
Russet potatoes can get too mushy. Baby red and fingerling potatoes stay firm. Cut them into 3/4” to 1” chunks for the best slow cooking results.
Using Dairy Alternatives
For a healthier soup, use nonfat plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. It makes the soup creamy without many calories. Adding half a block of cream cheese or sharp cheddar also adds flavor.
In the last 30 minutes, mix heavy cream and cornstarch for thickening. This avoids using condensed soups. It makes the soup creamy and delicious.
Additions to Your Crockpot Potato Soup
Adding special touches to my crockpot potato soup makes it extra special. I can pick from vegetarian or loaded options. This way, I can make it just right for everyone.
Vegetarian Enhancements
For a tasty vegetarian potato soup, I choose my ingredients carefully. I skip the bacon and use vegetable stock instead of chicken broth. This keeps the soup rich and flavorful.
I also add different veggies or legumes for protein. Here are some great choices:
- Chopped carrots for sweetness and texture
- Green peas for a pop of color
- Chickpeas for added protein and fiber
These vegetarian options make the soup nutritious and comforting. Everyone can enjoy it.
Loaded Options for Extra Flavor
For a heartier soup, I try different loaded potato soup variations. Adding extra cheese, like sharp cheddar or gouda, makes it creamy. Here are my top loaded additions:
- Cooked crumbled bacon for a savory crunch
- Fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for brightness
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt, adding tanginess and creaminess
These toppings add depth to every spoonful. Whether I choose vegetarian or loaded, these additions make sure everyone is happy.
Simple Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe
I love making simple crockpot potato soup. It’s easy and tastes great. You can prepare it in about 20 minutes. Then, it cooks for 6 hours and 30 minutes, making it a perfect comfort food.
Preparation Time
This recipe takes about 6 hours and 50 minutes. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 50 minutes
Serving Size
This potato soup makes about 6 servings. Each serving is full of flavor and nutrients. It’s great for family meals or meal prep. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional content per serving:
| Nutrient | Content per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 408 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Total Fat | 25 g |
| Saturated Fat | 15 g |
| Cholesterol | 81 mg |
| Sodium | 584 mg |
| Potassium | 950 mg |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Vitamin A | 895 IU |
| Vitamin C | 11.7 mg |
| Calcium | 76 mg |
| Iron | 1.9 mg |
Health Benefits of Homemade Crockpot Potato Soup
Making homemade crockpot soup is good for you. Potatoes are full of vitamins and minerals. This makes the soup a great choice for a healthy meal.
You can make it your own way. This means everyone can enjoy it, no matter their diet.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Yukon gold potatoes are used in this soup. They are low in calories and fat. This makes them good for those watching their weight.
Each serving has potassium and fiber. These are important for your body to work right. Leeks add vitamins K and A, and garlic has antioxidants.
Customizable for Dietary Needs
This soup can be made for different diets. If you don’t want a lot of sodium, use low sodium broth. You can also use plant-based milk to make it dairy-free.
This makes the soup healthy for everyone. It fits with many diets, so it’s good for all.
| Nutrient | Content in 1 Serving (1.5 cups) |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 200 |
| Fat | 2 grams |
| Potassium | 600 mg |
| Fiber | 4 grams |
| Sodium | Varies (based on broth used) |
Delicious Potato Soup Crockpot Variations
Trying out different potato soup recipes makes cooking fun. I love making cheesy potato soups for a special treat. Vegetable loaded soups are great for adding fresh veggies. Each one brings a new flavor to the classic potato soup.
Cheesy and Bacon Versions
Cheesy potato soup is a real treat. Adding sharp cheddar cheese makes it creamy. Bacon slices add a smoky taste that goes well with the cheese. Here’s a quick look at this tasty mix:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours and 30 minutes on high
- Servings: 8
- Calories per serving: 420 cal
- Protein per serving: 17 g
Vegetable Loaded Variations
Adding fresh veggies like carrots and bell peppers makes the soup colorful. It’s a healthy way to enjoy more veggies. This version is full of vitamins and minerals.
- Customizable Ingredients: Use any vegetables you prefer.
- Flavor Enhancements: Adding herbs like thyme or spices boosts taste significantly.
- Rich Nutritional Profile: Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables, this version is not only hearty but healthy.
Storing and Reheating Your Crockpot Potato Soup
Enjoying a bowl of crockpot potato soup is great. But knowing how to store and reheat leftovers is key. Proper storing potato soup keeps it fresh and flavorful. You can enjoy your soup again without losing its taste.
Storage Guidelines
Use airtight containers for leftover soup. This keeps the flavor and texture good. You can store it in the fridge for up to five days.
For easy potato soup storage, portion it out. This makes reheating easier. You won’t have to thaw all of it at once.
Reheating Tips for Best Flavor
To reheat soup for best flavor, start by warming it gently on the stove. If it’s too thick, add a little chicken broth or milk. Stir well to heat evenly.
If you use a microwave, heat in short intervals. Stop to stir between each time. This keeps the soup’s flavor and texture perfect.
Pairing Suggestions for Your Soup
Choosing the right sides can make your crockpot potato soup even better. I like to serve different sides that go well with the soup’s creamy taste. Here are some ideas that make the meal even better.
Perfect Side Dishes
- Fresh, crisp salads with a light vinaigrette add a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus provide a tasty, healthy addition.
- A simple grilled cheese sandwich makes for a comforting option.
Breads and Crackers to Complement Your Soup
For bread pairings for soup, a warm, crusty loaf or buttery dinner rolls are perfect. They help soak up every bit of soup. Or, try crackers with potato soup for a nice crunch. Here are some good choices:
- Butter or salted crackers for a classic crunch.
- Herbed or seasoned crackers to add flavor.
- Whole grain crackers for a hearty option.
Why I Love Making Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup
I love making loaded potato soup because it’s so versatile. It reminds me of family gatherings where we all loved comfort food. You can add bacon, green onions, or cheddar cheese to make it your own.
Making this soup is easy. You can cook it for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. This lets me set it up in the morning and enjoy the smell all day. It makes my home feel cozy.
This soup is also good for you. It’s full of vitamins and minerals. It’s a classic dish that brings everyone together with its delicious flavors.
