Potato Soup Crock Pot
Looking for a warm and comforting dish? This potato soup recipe made in a crock pot is not only simple but also packed with flavor. Ideal for busy weeknights, it requires minimal prep time and allows the slow cooker to work its magic. This creamy soup, loaded with tender potatoes and savory bacon, is sure to please the whole family. Grab your ingredients and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
– 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
– Chives for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is 6-8 hours on low or 4 hours on high.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 250 calories, 10g fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 5g protein. This is for one person and offers a comforting balance of flavors and nutrients.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small cubes.
2. Chop the onion and carrots, and mince the garlic.
3. Place the diced potatoes, onion, carrots, and garlic in the crock pot.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring all ingredients are submerged.
5. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Cover the crock pot and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
7. After cooking, use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes for a creamy texture.
8. Stir in the heavy cream, mixing well.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
10. Serve hot, garnished with crumbled bacon and chives.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and omit the bacon or replace it with smoked paprika for flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This potato soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover potato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure to leave some space in the container for expansion.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the potatoes, as they can become mushy.
– Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning before serving.
– Ensure the broth covers all ingredients for even cooking.
– Avoid using low-sodium broth without adjusting the salt.
– Don’t skip the mashing step if you prefer a creamier texture.
Helpful Tips
– For extra flavor, add herbs like thyme or rosemary.
– Use a combination of different potatoes for varied textures.
– Consider adding cheese for a richer taste.
– If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water to reach desired consistency.
FAQs
Can I make potato soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup stores well and can be made a day ahead. Just refrigerate it and reheat when ready to serve.
How can I make this soup vegan?
To make this soup vegan, replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Omit the bacon or use a plant-based alternative.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like corn, peas, or celery for added flavor and nutrition. Just ensure they are cut into small, even pieces for even cooking.
Is it possible to thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash more potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water).
What can I serve alongside potato soup?
Potato soup goes well with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a simple side salad, complementing its creamy texture with crunch.
Conclusion
This potato soup crock pot recipe is a perfect comfort food option for any occasion. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks. Try it today and embrace the warmth of homemade soup!
Potato Soup Crock Pot
Ingredients
- 6 medium potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cooked bacon crumbled
- Chives for garnish
Instructions
- Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes.
- Chop the onion and carrots, and mince the garlic.
- Place the diced potatoes, onion, carrots, and garlic in the crock pot.
- Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring all ingredients are submerged.
- Add salt and black pepper to taste.
- Cover the crock pot and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- After cooking, use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes for a creamy texture.
- Stir in the heavy cream, mixing well.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with crumbled bacon and chives.
