Crock Pot Potato Soup
This crock pot potato soup is a cozy, creamy delight that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something hearty, this recipe combines tender potatoes, flavorful broth, and rich cream to create a bowl of comfort. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, it’s a dish that will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 6 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crock pot.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains about 300 calories, 12g of fat, 45g of carbohydrates, 6g of protein, and 4g of fiber. This nutritional information is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes.
2. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
3. Place the diced potatoes, onion, and garlic in the crock pot.
4. Pour in the broth, ensuring all ingredients are submerged.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
7. Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher to mash them slightly for a creamy texture.
8. Stir in the heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
9. Adjust seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if necessary.
10. Serve hot, garnished with crumbled bacon and fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth and omit the bacon. Additionally, you can add vegetables like carrots or celery for extra flavor and nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
This crock pot potato soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or a warm sandwich. It can also be topped with extra cheese, sour cream, or green onions for added flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skimp on seasoning; it enhances the flavor.
– Avoid overcooking the potatoes; they should be tender but not mushy.
– Make sure to use a good quality broth for the best taste.
– Stir occasionally to prevent sticking if cooking on high.
– Don’t add cream until the end of cooking to prevent curdling.
Helpful Tips
– Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture.
– For a smoky flavor, try adding smoked paprika.
– Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
– Make it a loaded potato soup by adding toppings like sour cream or chives.
FAQs
Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, you can use frozen diced potatoes. Just add them directly to the crock pot without thawing. Cooking time may be slightly extended.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and ingredients, this soup can be made gluten-free.
Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use vegetable broth. Omit the bacon or use a plant-based bacon alternative.
How can I thicken the soup?
To thicken, you can blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in or add a cornstarch slurry during the last hour of cooking.
What toppings work well?
Popular toppings include crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, sour cream, chives, or crispy onions for added texture.
Conclusion
Crock pot potato soup is not just a meal; it’s a heartwarming experience that brings comfort to any dining table. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this easy-to-make soup is perfect for busy days and cozy nights alike. Enjoy it with friends and family for a delightful culinary experience!
Crock Pot Potato Soup
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of bacon cooked and crumbled
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes.
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Place the diced potatoes, onion, and garlic in the crock pot.
- Pour in the broth, ensuring all ingredients are submerged.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Once the potatoes are tender, mash them slightly for a creamy texture.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted.
- Adjust seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with crumbled bacon and fresh parsley.
