Slow Cooker Potato Soup has been a comforting staple in my household for as long as I can remember. There’s just something so cozy and nostalgic about that rich, creamy soup simmering away in the kitchen all day, filling the air with the most incredible aroma. It takes me right back to my childhood, when my mom would have a big pot of Slow Cooker Potato Soup waiting for us after a long, cold day of playing in the snow. I can still picture myself coming in from the frigid winter air, cheeks flushed and fingers numb, only to be greeted by the warmth and comfort of that beloved soup. Mom would ladle it into our bowls, topping it with crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar, and a dollop of sour cream. It was pure heaven, and I couldn’t wait to curl up on the couch and savor every single spoonful.
Nowadays, I find myself craving that same feeling of comfort and satisfaction, so I make Slow Cooker Potato Soup on a regular basis. It’s just one of those recipes that never fails to hit the spot, no matter the season or occasion. And you know what? It’s actually super easy to make, especially when you’ve got a trusty slow cooker doing most of the work for you.
Why This Slow Cooker Potato Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Slow Cooker Potato Soup
This Slow Cooker Potato Soup recipe is truly special because it combines the convenience of a hands-off cooking method with the deep, rich flavors that can only come from slowly simmering the ingredients together. The long, gentle cooking process allows the potatoes to break down and infuse the broth with their natural starchiness, creating a wonderfully creamy and velvety texture without the need for heavy cream or excessive thickeners. And by using a combination of Yukon Gold and russet potatoes, you get the best of both worlds – the creaminess of the Yukon Golds and the hearty, stick-to-your-ribs texture of the russets.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
– Yukon Gold potatoes: These creamy, buttery potatoes help create the luxurious base of the soup.
– Russet potatoes: The starchier russets lend body and substance to the Slow Cooker Potato Soup.
– Onion: Sautéed onions add depth of flavor and a subtle sweetness.
– Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for building aromatic complexity.
– Chicken or vegetable broth: The liquid base for the soup, providing the perfect balance of richness and savoriness.
– Milk or heavy cream: A touch of dairy adds creaminess and a silky mouthfeel.
– Butter: Just a small amount of butter helps to enrich the flavors.
– Seasonings: A blend of salt, pepper, and thyme complement the potato flavor perfectly.
Step-by-Step Slow Cooker Potato Soup Instructions
Preparing Your Slow Cooker Potato Soup
Making Slow Cooker Potato Soup couldn’t be easier. All you need is about 15 minutes of hands-on prep time, and then your slow cooker does the rest of the work. Simply toss all the ingredients into the pot, set it, and forget it. In just 6-8 hours, you’ll have a comforting, creamy soup that’s ready to enjoy.
1- Start by peeling and dicing the Yukon Gold and russet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. This ensures they’ll cook through evenly in the slow cooker.
2- Sauté the onion and garlic in a bit of butter until fragrant and softened, then add them to the slow cooker along with the potatoes.
3- Pour in the broth and milk, then season generously with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme.
4- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, until the potatoes are very tender and the soup has thickened to your desired consistency.
5- For a extra-velvety texture, use an immersion blender to purée a portion of the soup right in the slow cooker.
6- Ladle the Slow Cooker Potato Soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, or a dollop of sour cream.
Pro Tips for Success
The key to perfect Slow Cooker Potato Soup is to not let the potatoes overcook. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time, and be ready to purée part of the soup if you want an extra-creamy texture. And don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your personal taste – a little extra salt, pepper, or thyme can make all the difference.
Serving and Storing Your Slow Cooker Potato Soup
Perfect Pairings for Slow Cooker Potato Soup
Slow Cooker Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, so I love serving it with warm, crusty bread or buttery biscuits for dipping. A crisp green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts also make excellent accompaniments. And of course, you can’t go wrong with a grilled cheese sandwich on the side. As for beverages, a nice hot cup of tea or coffee is the perfect pairing, but a cold beer or a glass of white wine also complement the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Slow Cooker Potato Soup actually gets even better the next day, so it’s a great recipe to make in advance. Simply let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot and steaming. You can also freeze Slow Cooker Potato Soup for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Slow Cooker Potato Soup
Creative Slow Cooker Potato Soup Variations
While this classic Slow Cooker Potato Soup recipe is absolutely delicious as-is, there are so many fun ways to switch it up. Try adding diced ham or crispy bacon for a heartier meal, or stir in some shredded chicken for a protein boost. You could also experiment with different cheese toppings, like crumbled feta or gorgonzola. For a seasonal twist, add roasted garlic, rosemary, or even diced apple in the fall. The possibilities are endless!
Making Slow Cooker Potato Soup Diet-Friendly
To make this Slow Cooker Potato Soup recipe more diet-friendly, you can easily swap out a few ingredients. Use low-fat or unsweetened almond milk instead of regular milk or cream, and opt for vegetable broth to make it vegan. For a lower-carb version, replace some of the potatoes with diced cauliflower. You can also top the soup with plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. No matter which variations you try, this Slow Cooker Potato Soup is sure to satisfy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use all russet potatoes instead of a mix?
A: Absolutely! While the Yukon Golds add a lovely creaminess, you can certainly use all russet potatoes if that’s what you have on hand. The soup may end up a bit heartier in texture, but it will still be delicious.
Q: How long does Slow Cooker Potato Soup take to cook?
A: This Slow Cooker Potato Soup recipe needs to simmer for 6-8 hours on the low setting. This long, gentle cooking time allows the potatoes to break down and infuse the broth with maximum flavor and creaminess.
Q: Can I freeze leftover Slow Cooker Potato Soup?
A: Yes, Slow Cooker Potato Soup freezes beautifully! Just let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: How many servings does this Slow Cooker Potato Soup recipe make?
A: This recipe makes approximately 6-8 servings of Slow Cooker Potato Soup, depending on portion size. It’s a hearty, filling soup, so I’d recommend starting with a 1-cup serving and adjusting from there.
Q: What should I do if my Slow Cooker Potato Soup turns out too thin?
A: If your Slow Cooker Potato Soup ends up a bit on the thin side, no problem! Simply use an immersion blender to purée a portion of the soup directly in the slow cooker. This will help thicken it up and create an extra-velvety texture.
Slow Cooker Potato Soup
- Total Time: 375
- Yield: 6
Description
Indulge in the rich, velvety texture of this Slow Cooker Potato Soup. Packed with tender potatoes, savory seasonings, and a creamy broth, this comforting dish is perfect for a chilly day.
Ingredients
– 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 cups milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. 1. Add the diced potatoes, onion, and garlic to a slow cooker.
2. 2. Pour in the broth and milk, then stir in the butter, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. 3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are very tender.
4. 4. Use a potato masher or immersion blender to partially mash the potatoes, leaving some chunks for texture.
5. 5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. 6. Serve hot, garnished with chives, shredded cheese, or crumbled bacon if desired.
Notes
For a creamier soup, add an extra 1/2 cup of milk. You can also add diced ham or cooked bacon for extra flavor. The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 360
- Category: Main Courses
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
There’s just something so comforting and satisfying about a big bowl of Slow Cooker Potato Soup, isn’t there? The way the rich, creamy broth and tender chunks of potato warm you from the inside out is truly unbeatable. And the best part is, it’s so easy to make in your slow cooker with just a handful of simple ingredients. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a chilly day or just want to enjoy a classic comfort food, this Slow Cooker Potato Soup recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. So what are you waiting for? Get that slow cooker going and get ready to savor every last spoonful!