Are you ready to warm your soul with a hearty bowl of homemade crockpot potato soup? This creamy and comforting dish is not only incredibly easy to make but also bursting with flavor. Just set it and forget it while your slow cooker does all the work. Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup is a family favorite that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, chives
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 6 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is 6 to 8 hours on low heat.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of this delicious potato soup (about 1 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 4g
– Total Fat: 14g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fiber: 3g
– Sodium: 600mg
This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes.
2. Chop the onion, carrots, and celery.
3. Add the diced potatoes and chopped vegetables into the crockpot.
4. Pour the vegetable or chicken broth over the vegetables.
5. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Stir the ingredients gently to combine.
7. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.
8. Once the vegetables are tender, use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes for a thicker texture.
9. Stir in the heavy cream and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes.
10. Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option. Additionally, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth makes this dish vegetarian-friendly.
Serving and Pairings
This delicious potato soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh garden salad. Serve it as a main dish or a comforting side to your favorite meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover potato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to leave some space in the container for the soup to expand.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip the browning of the vegetables; it adds depth of flavor.
– Avoid using too much liquid; it can make the soup too watery.
– Don’t rush the cooking time; low and slow is key.
– Make sure to season properly; taste before serving.
– Avoid over-mashing the potatoes to retain some texture.
Helpful Tips
– Use a mix of different potatoes for varied texture and flavor.
– Stir occasionally during cooking for even heat distribution.
– Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
– Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
– Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegan by using vegetable broth and substituting heavy cream with coconut milk or a vegan cream alternative.
How do I thicken the soup?
To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the potatoes, or mix a cornstarch slurry with water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Absolutely! Cooked bacon, ham, or sausage can be added for extra flavor and protein. Just mix it in during the last hour of cooking.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover potato soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I make this soup on the stovetop?
Yes, you can make this soup on the stovetop by simmering all the ingredients in a large pot for about 30-40 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
Conclusion
This crockpot potato soup recipe is a true comfort food classic that’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table. With its creamy texture and delightful flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to cozy nights in. Enjoy a bowl of warmth and goodness today!
Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots sliced
- 2 celery stalks chopped
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: crumbled bacon shredded cheese, chives
Instructions
- Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes.
- Chop the onion, carrots, and celery.
- Add the diced potatoes and chopped vegetables into the crockpot.
- Pour the vegetable or chicken broth over the vegetables.
- Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir the ingredients gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.
- Once the vegetables are tender, use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes for a thicker texture.
- Stir in the heavy cream and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings.