Easy Crockpot Potato Soup: A Comforting Classic

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of potato soup to soothe the soul, especially on a chilly day. This Easy Crockpot Potato Soup is a no-fuss, creamy, and hearty dish that will leave your family and friends asking for seconds. The slow cooker does all the work, blending flavors and textures into a delicious, comforting meal. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner at home, a potluck, or meal prep for the week, this potato soup is a winner.

This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a restaurant-quality soup in your own kitchen. Best of all, this dish is highly customizable—you can add bacon, cheese, or extra veggies to suit your taste.

So, let’s dive into this warm, creamy, and flavorful Crockpot Potato Soup recipe!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 5 large russet potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 2 cups milk (whole milk or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
• 1 cup heavy cream (optional for a richer texture)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for depth of flavor)
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme)
• 2 tablespoons butter

Thickening Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• ¼ cup water

Toppings (Optional but Recommended!):

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• ¼ cup chopped green onions
• ½ cup sour cream

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Wash, peel, and dice the potatoes into small cubes (about ½ inch).
2. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
3. If using fresh thyme, remove the leaves from the stems and chop them finely.

Step 2: Load the Crockpot

1. Add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic into the crockpot.
2. Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth).
3. Add salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme, then stir to combine.
4. Place 2 tablespoons of butter on top for extra richness.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

1. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until potatoes are soft and fork-tender.

Step 4: Blend the Soup (Optional for Creaminess)

• For a chunky soup, lightly mash some of the potatoes with a fork or potato masher.
• For a smooth and creamy soup, use an immersion blender to blend everything until smooth.

Step 5: Thicken the Soup

1. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch with ¼ cup water until smooth.
2. Stir this mixture into the soup. Let it cook for another 15-20 minutes on HIGH until thickened.

Step 6: Add Dairy for a Creamy Finish

1. Pour in milk and heavy cream. Stir well to combine.
2. Let it warm up for another 10-15 minutes before serving.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Top with cheddar cheese, bacon, green onions, and sour cream.
3. Enjoy this warm and delicious potato soup!

History of Potato Soup

Potato soup has deep roots in many cultures around the world. Potatoes were first cultivated in South America over 7,000 years ago and became a staple in European diets after being introduced by Spanish explorers in the 16th century. During harsh winters, potato soup became a comfort food due to its affordability, availability, and ability to provide warmth and nourishment. Today, potato soup remains a beloved dish, with variations found in American, German, Irish, and French cuisines.

Benefits of Crockpot Potato Soup

This easy crockpot potato soup isn’t just delicious—it also offers numerous health benefits:
✅ Rich in Fiber – Potatoes provide dietary fiber, which aids digestion.
✅ High in Vitamins – Packed with vitamin C, B6, and potassium.
✅ Comforting & Satisfying – A warm, filling meal perfect for cold days.
✅ Versatile & Customizable – Add vegetables, proteins, or different seasonings to suit your taste.
✅ Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, inexpensive ingredients.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

(This is an estimate and varies depending on toppings and exact ingredients used.)

• Calories: ~350 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 15g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fiber: 5g

Who Loves This Soup?

Potato soup is a crowd-pleaser that appeals to all age groups:
❤️ Families – Kids and adults alike enjoy its creamy, cheesy goodness.
❤️ Vegetarians – Easily made meat-free by using vegetable broth and omitting bacon.
❤️ Busy Professionals – A great make-ahead meal for easy weeknight dinners.
❤️ Seniors – Soft, warm, and easy to digest.
❤️ Soup Lovers – A must-have for anyone who enjoys a hearty bowl of soup.

Alternative Methods to Make Potato Soup

1. Instant Pot Method

• Add all ingredients to the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
• Perform a quick release, then blend to desired consistency.
• Stir in milk, cream, and toppings before serving.

2. Stovetop Method

• In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic in butter.
• Add potatoes and broth, bring to a boil, and then simmer for 30-40 minutes until soft.
• Mash or blend, then stir in milk, cream, and seasonings.

Conclusion

Easy, delicious, and incredibly comforting, this Crockpot Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you make it for a family gathering, a quick weeknight dinner, or meal prep, this soup is guaranteed to be a hit. With its rich history, nutritional benefits, and versatility, it’s no wonder potato soup is a favorite worldwide.

So, grab your slow cooker and enjoy a warm, creamy bowl of homemade potato soup today!