Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, hearty meal that’s incredibly easy to prepare, this Slow Cooker Potato Soup is just what you need. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this soup is perfect for busy days or cozy evenings at home. The slow cooker does all the work, transforming basic ingredients into a rich and creamy delight that’s sure to satisfy the whole family. Plus, it’s packed with flavor, thanks to the blend of potatoes, onions, garlic, and creamy additions.

Why This Slow Cooker Potato Soup Is Perfect

This slow cooker potato soup is an ideal recipe for anyone who loves comforting, home-cooked meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, you’ll appreciate how straightforward and forgiving this recipe is. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a soup that’s rich in taste and velvety in texture. It’s also versatile—perfect as a main course for lunch or dinner, and it can be easily customized to suit your preferences.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Potato Soup

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this creamy and comforting soup:

• 5 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced (approximately 2 pounds)
• 1 small onion, diced (about 1/2 cup)
• 4 cups chicken broth (use low-sodium if preferred)
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic (fresh or jarred)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon xanthan gum (for thickening)

These ingredients come together to create a soup that’s full of hearty flavor. The russet potatoes provide a starchy base that thickens the soup naturally, while the onion, garlic, and chicken broth add depth. Butter, heavy cream, and sour cream give the soup its creamy, rich texture. Finally, xanthan gum is the secret ingredient that helps to thicken the soup without altering its flavor.

this RECIPE

Essential Kitchen Equipment

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following kitchen equipment ready:

• Slow cooker (6-quart capacity is ideal)
• Cutting board and knife for dicing potatoes and onions
• Measuring spoons and cups for accurate ingredient measurements
• Whisk for blending the cream mixture
• Mixing bowl for combining the cream, sour cream, and xanthan gum
• Ladle for serving the soup

Having the right tools on hand will ensure a smooth cooking process and help you achieve the best results.

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious, creamy potato soup:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small, even pieces. Dice the onion finely and set both aside.
2. Load the Slow Cooker: Place the diced potatoes, onions, minced garlic, chicken broth, butter, salt, and pepper into your slow cooker. Stir everything together to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Cook: Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The soup is ready for the next step when the potatoes are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
4. Prepare the Cream Mixture: About 30 minutes to an hour before the soup is done, prepare the thickening mixture. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, sour cream, and xanthan gum. The mixture will thicken as you whisk.
5. Thicken the Soup: Stir the cream mixture into the slow cooker, ensuring it’s fully incorporated. Cook the soup on high for an additional 20 to 30 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
6. Serve: Once thickened, give the soup a final stir and taste for seasoning. Add more salt or pepper if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.

Tips for Thickening Your Soup

Xanthan gum is a great thickener that works well in this soup, but if you don’t have it on hand, here are a few alternatives:

• Cornstarch Slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stir into the soup during the final 30 minutes of cooking.
• Potato Masher: Mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the slow cooker to naturally thicken the soup.
• Flour Roux: Create a roux by cooking equal parts butter and flour in a pan, then stirring it into the soup.

Each of these methods will help achieve a thick, creamy consistency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your soup turns out perfect every time, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Not Dicing Potatoes Evenly: Unevenly diced potatoes can result in some pieces being undercooked while others become too soft.
• Overcooking the Soup: Cooking the soup for too long can make the potatoes mushy and the texture less appealing.
• Adding Dairy Too Soon: Dairy products like heavy cream and sour cream can curdle if added too early. Always add them towards the end of the cooking process.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

To elevate the presentation of your slow cooker potato soup, consider these serving ideas:

• Garnishes: Top each bowl with shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, or chopped chives for added flavor and color.
• Side Dishes: Serve the soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Individual Portions: Serve the soup in small, individual soup bowls or bread bowls for a fun, rustic touch.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigeration: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

Customize this potato soup recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs:

• Cheesy Potato Soup: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese with the cream mixture for a cheesy version.
• Bacon Potato Soup: Add cooked, crumbled bacon directly into the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a smoky flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the butter, using olive oil instead.

These variations allow you to enjoy this soup in different ways, keeping it fresh and exciting each time.

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes can be used, but they will yield a slightly different texture.

What can I use instead of xanthan gum?
Cornstarch, flour, or simply mashing some of the potatoes can be used as thickening alternatives.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free sour cream alternative.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Potato Soup is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves comforting, creamy soups that are easy to prepare. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to cozy weekend lunches. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes straight to your inbox!

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