If you are searching for a cozy, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a creamy, savory delight packed with tender potatoes, smoky bacon, and gooey cheddar cheese, all slow-cooked to perfection. This recipe is wonderfully simple to prepare yet rich in flavor and texture, making it an ideal go-to comfort food for chilly days or whenever you want to impress friends and family with minimal effort. Let’s dive into creating this soul-satisfying soup that will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Choosing the right ingredients is the secret to making a memorable Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe. Each component plays a vital role in building the layered flavors and luscious texture that defines this dish. From starchy potatoes for body to sharp cheddar for richness, these essentials come together beautifully without any fuss.
- 6 cups of peeled and diced potatoes: The hearty foundation providing creaminess and body.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the broth.
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced: Lends a gentle warmth and aromatic kick.
- 6 cups of chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that ties the soup together.
- 1 teaspoon of salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper: Delivers a mild, comforting heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika: Gives a hint of smokiness that complements the bacon perfectly.
- 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese: Creates that irresistible creamy, cheesy element.
- 1 cup of cooked and crumbled bacon: Brings a crunchy, savory contrast with smoky notes.
- 1 cup of heavy cream: Provides luxurious richness and velvety smoothness.
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup for the perfect hearty consistency.
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh pop of color and brightness to finish.
How to Make Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
Start by placing the diced potatoes, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika into your crockpot. This assembly is the flavor foundation, so try to distribute everything evenly. The slow cooking will gently meld these ingredients, turning them into a lush broth filled with inviting aromas.
Step 2: Slow Cook Till Tender
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. During this time, the potatoes soften completely, and the flavors fully develop. The result will be tender, flavorful potatoes swimming in a seasoned broth that’s begging to be transformed into rich soup.
Step 3: Mash Some Potatoes
Once the potatoes are tender, take a potato masher and gently mash some of the potatoes right in the crockpot. This step is a game changer—it thickens the soup naturally while leaving lovely chunks for texture. The soup base starts looking irresistibly creamy and thick here.
Step 4: Add Cream and Flour Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and all-purpose flour until smooth. Pour this mixture into the crockpot and stir well. The cream adds indulgent richness while the flour helps the soup reach that perfect velvety consistency you dream of in a potato soup.
Step 5: Stir in Cheese and Bacon
Now it’s time for the cheese and bacon magic. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon into the crockpot. Stir occasionally as the cheese melts and the soup thickens slightly, creating a luscious, cheesy, smoky blend that’s pure comfort.
Step 6: Season to Taste
Give the soup a careful taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed. This final touch is your chance to personalize the soup’s flavor intensity before serving.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Serve the soup piping hot, garnished generously with freshly chopped parsley. This splash of green freshens the look and adds a subtle herbaceous note that balances the richness beautifully. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
How to Serve Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley adds a lovely color and slightly bitter freshness that contrasts well with the creamy, cheesy goodness of this soup. Other great options include a sprinkle of extra crispy bacon, shredded cheddar, or even a dollop of sour cream to elevate the experience.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls perfect for dipping. A crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables can bring brightness and balance to this hearty meal, rounding out the comfort food vibe with a touch of freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a charming and edible presentation that amps up the coziness factor. Alternatively, layering in extra toppings at the table encourages everyone to customize their bowl, turning a simple meal into a fun, interactive experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making the soup even more enjoyable when reheated.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully, too. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat leftover soup slowly over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens more than you like, whisk in a splash of broth or milk to bring back that creamy texture. Avoid boiling to preserve the smooth creaminess and keep the cheese from separating.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon. You can add extra smoked paprika or smoked cheese for that beloved smoky depth without meat.
What kind of potatoes work best?
Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds are ideal for this recipe because they break down nicely and help thicken the soup while still holding some chunks for texture.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes to thicken the soup?
It’s best to stick with the natural potato mash method in the recipe for the best flavor and texture. Instant potatoes might give you a gummy texture and won’t have the same fresh potato flavor.
Is it possible to make this soup in a regular pot instead of a crockpot?
Yes, you can simmer all ingredients gently on the stove for about 45 minutes to an hour until the potatoes are tender, mashing them and adding cream, flour, cheese, and bacon afterward. Just keep an eye on it and stir often to avoid sticking.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or a creamy plant-based milk alternative instead of heavy cream and omit the cheese or choose a dairy-free cheese substitute. The flavor will change slightly but will still be delicious.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like coming home to a big pot of warm, cheesy, hearty potato soup bubbling away in the crockpot, ready to comfort and satisfy. This Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that requires minimal hands-on time but delivers maximum flavor and coziness. I encourage you to try this recipe soon and share it with those you love — it’s sure to become one of your all-time favorites!
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Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 6h 0m
- Total Time: 6h 20m
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Crockpot Potato Soup is a rich and creamy dish made with tender potatoes, savory bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a hint of smoked paprika. Slow-cooked to perfection, it offers a hearty, flavorful meal perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave a warm, satisfying bowl of soup.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 6 cups peeled and diced potatoes
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Thickening and Flavor Enhancements
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Garnishes
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Add Ingredients to Crockpot: Place the diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika into the crockpot, ensuring ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Cook Soup: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Mash Potatoes: Use a potato masher inside the crockpot to gently mash some of the cooked potatoes. This creates a creamy texture while maintaining chunks for a hearty soup.
- Prepare Cream Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and all-purpose flour until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps, which will help thicken the soup.
- Incorporate Cream Mixture: Stir the heavy cream and flour mixture into the crockpot thoroughly, combining it well with the partially mashed potatoes and broth.
- Add Cheese and Bacon: Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon, stirring occasionally until the cheese melts fully and the soup thickens to your liking.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and add extra salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon.
- You can make the soup gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour or cornstarch for thickening instead of all-purpose flour.
- If you prefer a smoother soup, blend a portion of the soup before adding the cream and cheese.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.
- Adjust cream and cheese quantities to your preference for thickness and cheesiness.
