Potato Soup Crock Pot With Heavy Cream Recipe : Step By Step Guide

Potato soup is one of those timeless, soul-warming dishes that can feel like a hug in a bowl. It’s comforting, hearty, and perfect for any season. But, when you elevate it with a slow cooker and heavy cream, you get a velvety, rich version that’s sure to impress at any table. The beauty of making potato soup in the Crock Pot is that you don’t have to babysit it; you just chop, toss in the ingredients, and let the slow cooker work its magic. With the addition of heavy cream, you get a luscious, creamy texture that takes the soup to a whole new level. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or even a chilly day when you need something to warm you up, this recipe is a must-try!

Let’s dive into the details and talk about how to make this dream-worthy potato soup that’s packed with flavor, comfort, and creamy goodness. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your rotation!

Potato Soup Crock Pot With Heavy Cream Recipe

A Crock Pot is essentially a gift for any cook who loves convenience without sacrificing flavor. This potato soup is just that-a hands-off recipe that results in a rich, creamy soup. The heavy cream adds a luxurious texture, making each spoonful feel indulgent. Now let’s break down how to put this recipe together step by step.

Ingredients Needed

• 4 medium potatoes – Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best. They’re sturdy, absorb the flavors well, and give the soup the perfect consistency.
• 1 onion – A small yellow or white onion will do. The sweetness of the onion balances the richness of the heavy cream.
• 3 cloves garlic – Fresh garlic gives the soup a savory depth of flavor. You can use more if you love a strong garlic flavor.
• 4 cups chicken broth – This is the base of your soup, adding savory undertones. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• 1 cup heavy cream – This is what makes the soup creamy and rich. It’s the secret ingredient that elevates the flavor profile.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – This adds both flavor and some extra creaminess to the soup. Sharp cheddar is a great choice for a bolder flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – For an earthy, aromatic touch.
• 1 teaspoon salt – To season the soup, but feel free to adjust based on your preferences.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a subtle warmth and balances the richness of the cream.
• 2 tablespoons butter – A little butter adds richness and smoothness to the soup.
• Optional toppings: crispy bacon bits, green onions, extra cheese, or sour cream for extra flavor and texture.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare The Ingredients

   • Peel and cube the potatoes into bite-sized chunks. You want them to cook evenly, so try to keep the pieces around the same size.
   • Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic. This helps them cook down and blend seamlessly into the soup base.

2. Add To The Crock Pot

   • Place the potatoes, onion, and garlic into your Crock Pot. Add the chicken broth, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to evenly distribute the seasonings.

3. Cook

   • Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for 6-7 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours. The potatoes should be fork-tender, and the flavors will meld together beautifully.

4. Blend the Soup (Optional for a smoother texture):

   • Once the potatoes are tender, you can either use a hand-held immersion blender to puree the soup or mash the potatoes directly in the Crock Pot for a chunkier texture. If you want a smoother, velvety soup, blending is the way to go.

5. Add The Cream

   • Stir in the heavy cream and butter. The cream will make the soup wonderfully velvety and the butter will add a final layer of richness. Give it a good stir, and taste to see if it needs more salt or pepper.

6. Cheese And Toppings

   • Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese. Let it melt and incorporate fully into the soup, adding even more creaminess.
   • If you like, top with crispy bacon bits, extra cheese, and green onions for added texture and flavor. Sour cream also adds a nice tang.

Ingredient Insights

• Potatoes: The variety of potato you choose can make a significant difference in the soup’s texture. Yukon Gold potatoes are creamy and hold their shape well when cooked, while Russets break down more easily, creating a thicker, starchier consistency. You can even mix both for an interesting texture contrast.
• Heavy Cream: This is the key to achieving that luxurious, creamy texture. It’s more decadent than regular milk or half-and-half, giving your soup that rich, velvety feel. If you want to lighten it up a little, you can substitute with a combination of whole milk and a touch of cream cheese.
• Cheese: Using freshly shredded cheddar gives you better meltability and a smoother texture than pre-shredded cheese. Plus, it’ll have a sharper flavor if you go for a sharp or extra sharp variety, which stands out more in the soup.
• Chicken Broth vs. Vegetable Broth: If you’re going vegetarian, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. It’s just as flavorful and ensures everyone can enjoy the soup.

Expert Tips

• Don’t Skip the Toppings: The toppings really elevate this dish. Bacon bits bring a salty crunch, and a dollop of sour cream or extra cheese adds richness. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives give a nice pop of color and freshness.
• Customize Your Creaminess: For a thicker soup, mash more potatoes or add a bit of flour or cornstarch (dissolved in a little broth) before adding the cream. For a thinner soup, use less cream and more broth.
• Make Ahead and Freeze: This soup freezes well! Make a big batch, let it cool, and then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat and adjust the seasoning if needed.
• Spices: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Sage, rosemary, and bay leaves also work well with this soup, adding a more complex flavor profile.

Recipe Variations

• Vegan Potato Soup: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Omit the cheese and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy, vegan alternative.
• Spicy Potato Soup: Add a chopped jalapeño or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper for some heat. You can also mix in some hot sauce when serving for that spicy kick.
• Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Top the soup with sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, and crispy bacon for a loaded baked potato experience in a bowl.
• Slow Cooker Bacon Potato Soup: Add cooked, crumbled bacon directly into the slow cooker with the potatoes for a smoky flavor throughout the soup.
• Creamy Chicken and Potato Soup: Add cooked, shredded chicken to the soup for a heartier meal. Chicken thighs or rotisserie chicken work best for a juicy texture.

Final Words

Potato soup, especially when made in the Crock Pot, is truly one of those dishes that just makes you feel good inside. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, and when you add the heavy cream, it transforms into a rich, creamy masterpiece. Whether you enjoy it with toppings or just as is, this soup will always satisfy.

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need For Potato Soup In A Crock Pot With Heavy Cream?

For this recipe, you will need potatoes, heavy cream, chicken or vegetable broth, onion, garlic, butter, salt, pepper, and optional toppings like shredded cheese, bacon bits, or chives.

Can I Use Any Type Of Potatoes For Crock Pot Potato Soup?

Yes, you can use any type of potatoes, but russet potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes work best because they break down well during cooking, creating a creamy texture.

Do I Need To Peel The Potatoes For This Recipe?

Peeling the potatoes is optional. Leaving the skins on adds texture and nutrients to the soup, but peeling them will give you a smoother consistency.

How Long Should I Cook Potato Soup In A Crock Pot?

For the best results, cook the soup on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The potatoes should be tender and easily mashable.

Can I Make Potato Soup In A Crock Pot Without Heavy Cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, milk, or a dairy-free alternative such as coconut milk. However, the richness and creaminess may differ.

How Do I Thicken Potato Soup If It’s Too Watery?

You can thicken the soup by mashing some of the potatoes directly in the crock pot or by stirring in a slurry made from cornstarch and water. Alternatively, you can cook it uncovered for a while to reduce the liquid.

Can I Add Vegetables Or Other Ingredients To This Potato Soup Recipe?

Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, celery, or leeks for added flavor. You can also incorporate cooked bacon, cheese, or even cooked chicken to make the soup heartier.

Can I Prepare The Potato Soup In Advance And Store It?

Yes, potato soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

Should I Use Fresh Or Pre-cooked Ingredients For The Crock Pot Potato Soup?

For best results, use fresh ingredients like raw potatoes and onions. Pre-cooked ingredients like pre-cooked bacon or rotisserie chicken can be added to enhance the flavor but don’t require long cooking times.

Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-free Or Vegan?

Yes, to make the soup dairy-free or vegan, use coconut milk or almond milk as a substitute for heavy cream, and ensure that the broth is vegetable-based. Skip butter or use a dairy-free butter substitute.