Potato Soup Crock Pot
Warm up on chilly days with a hearty potato soup made in your trusty crock pot. This creamy, flavorful dish combines tender potatoes, savory herbs, and a hint of cream to create the perfect comfort food. With minimal prep and slow cooking, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Let the crock pot do the work while you savor the delightful aroma filling your home.
Ingredients
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: crispy bacon, chopped green onions, fresh herbs
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 cup):
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 8g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fat: 14g
– Fiber: 4g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small cubes.
2. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
3. Place the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic in the crock pot.
4. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stir the mixture gently to combine all ingredients.
7. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
8. Once cooked, use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes for a creamy texture.
9. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
10. Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve hot, garnished with optional toppings.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with milk or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter soup. Additionally, use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or add cooked sausage for extra protein.
Serving and Pairings
This potato soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or a savory quiche.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover potato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip the seasoning, as it enhances the flavor.
– Avoid overcooking the potatoes; they should be tender but not mushy.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
– Remember to mash some potatoes for creaminess, but leave some chunks for texture.
– Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Helpful Tips
– Prep ingredients the night before for a quick start in the morning.
– For a smoky flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke.
– Use a hand blender for a smoother consistency if desired.
– Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
– Adjust cooking times based on your crock pot’s settings.
FAQs
Can I make potato soup in a regular pot instead of a crock pot?
Yes, you can easily make potato soup in a regular pot. Just sauté the onions and garlic first, then add the potatoes and broth, cooking until tender.
How can I thicken my potato soup?
For a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes, add a cornstarch slurry, or incorporate a roux made from flour and butter.
Can I use frozen potatoes for this soup?
Yes, frozen potatoes can be used, but they may alter the texture slightly. Adjust cooking time as needed.
Is potato soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and avoid adding any flour or gluten-containing ingredients.
How long can I keep leftovers?
Leftover potato soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days and frozen for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Making potato soup in a crock pot is a simple way to enjoy a comforting and delicious meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. Perfect for any occasion, this soup is sure to become a family favorite!
Potato Soup Crock Pot
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Crispy bacon for topping
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes.
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Place the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic in the crock pot.
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir the mixture gently to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
- Use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes for a creamy texture.
- Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve hot, garnished with bacon and green onions.
