Potato soup is a classic comfort food that many people turn to when the weather turns chilly, or when they simply need a warm bowl of something hearty. But instead of spending hours stirring and tending to a pot on the stove, why not take advantage of the convenience of a slow cooker? That’s where this Old Fashioned Potato Soup Crock Pot Recipe comes in-rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying with minimal effort. Imagine letting the crockpot do all the work while you go about your day, only to return home to a kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of slowly simmering potatoes, garlic, and seasonings.
There’s something nostalgic about a steaming bowl of homemade potato soup that reminds you of family gatherings, cozy nights in, and those simple, comforting meals that are just as filling for the soul as they are for the stomach. This recipe keeps the tradition of potato soup alive with a twist: slow-cooked perfection, bringing all the flavors together to create an incredibly rich and creamy dish.
So, let’s get down to the details and dive into this recipe!
Old Fashioned Potato Soup Crock Pot Recipe
This old-fashioned potato soup is the definition of "comfort in a bowl." The ingredients are simple, the preparation is straightforward, and the result is a creamy, savory soup that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re serving it as a main dish for dinner, pairing it with a sandwich for lunch, or bringing it to a potluck, this potato soup will surely be a crowd-pleaser. And because it’s made in the crock pot, you don’t have to hover over the stove. Just chop, dump, and wait for the deliciousness to unfold.
Ingredients Needed
Before we get to the cooking instructions, let’s gather everything you’ll need for this dish. You’ll want to make sure your pantry and fridge are stocked with the following:
- 6 large russet potatoes – Russets are the go-to choice because they break down well during slow cooking and give the soup that thick, creamy texture. Peel them, chop them into bite-sized cubes.
- 1 medium onion – A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to the soup. Don’t worry, it won’t overpower the potato flavor, just enhance it.
- 3 cloves of garlic – Garlic always makes a great base for any soup, and this recipe is no different. It provides a savory, aromatic flavor that brings the dish together.
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth – The broth forms the foundation of the soup, so it’s important to use a high-quality option. You can use either chicken or vegetable broth depending on your preference or dietary needs.
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half – For that rich and creamy texture. The milk creates a velvety base that balances out the savory flavors.
- 1 teaspoon salt – For seasoning, but remember you can always adjust to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Just enough to add a little kick without being overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – Thyme brings an earthy, herbaceous note that pairs perfectly with the potatoes.
- 1/2 cup sour cream – This is what takes the soup to the next level of creaminess. It also adds a slight tanginess, which balances the richness.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Cheese is the star of any potato soup. It melts beautifully into the broth, creating pockets of gooey, cheesy goodness.
- 2 tablespoons butter – Butter is key for adding a touch of richness and depth.
- Bacon (optional) – If you’re a bacon lover, crispy bacon crumbles on top are an optional addition for added crunch and flavor.
Cooking Instructions
Once you’ve got your ingredients lined up, it’s time to start cooking. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to prepare your Old Fashioned Potato Soup in the crock pot:
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Prep The Potatoes
- Start by peeling and dicing your russet potatoes into bite-sized cubes. The size of the cubes doesn’t have to be perfect, but keeping them uniform will help the potatoes cook evenly.
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Sauté The Onions And Garlic (Optional But Recommended)
- If you have a little extra time, heat a tablespoon of butter in a pan and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This step helps to unlock the natural sweetness of the onion and deepens the flavors.
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Combine Everything In The Crock Pot
- Place your chopped potatoes, sautéed onions and garlic (if you’ve done the sautéing), and all of the seasonings (salt, pepper, thyme) in the crock pot. Pour in your broth of choice (chicken or vegetable) and give everything a gentle stir to combine.
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Cook
- Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. The potatoes should be tender and easily mashable with a fork by the end of the cooking time.
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Mash The Potatoes
- Once the potatoes are cooked through, use a potato masher to gently mash some of the potatoes in the pot, leaving some intact for texture. This creates a thick, creamy base for the soup.
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Add Milk, Sour Cream, And Butter
- Stir in the milk (or half-and-half), sour cream, and butter. This will give your soup that silky, smooth texture. Continue to cook on low for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Add The Cheese
- Once the soup is ready, turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Let it melt into the soup, creating a creamy, cheesy consistency that’s irresistible.
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Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with optional crispy bacon crumbles or additional shredded cheese. A sprinkle of fresh parsley can add a pop of color if you like.
Ingredient Insights
To understand what makes this Old Fashioned Potato Soup special, it’s helpful to look at the key ingredients that elevate this simple dish:
- Russet Potatoes: Known for their high starch content, russets break down during slow cooking, thickening the soup without needing to add any flour or cornstarch. Their fluffy interior adds the perfect creamy texture when mashed.
- Sour Cream: This addition is often overlooked but provides a tangy richness that balances the savory, buttery base of the soup. It’s like a creamy hug for your taste buds.
- Cheddar Cheese: The sharpness of the cheddar cheese adds depth and complexity, complementing the potatoes perfectly. It also enhances the soup’s richness, making each bite more indulgent.
- Bacon: Bacon might be optional, but its smoky, salty flavor is one of the easiest ways to enhance any soup. If you do decide to include it, it will give your potato soup an irresistible crunch and savory bite.
Expert Tips
- Use a Hand Blender: If you like your soup extra creamy, consider using a hand blender once the potatoes are tender. Blend some of the soup right in the crock pot for a velvety smooth consistency, and leave a few chunks for texture.
- Don’t Skip the Browning: While you can technically skip the sautéing of onions and garlic, taking the extra few minutes to brown them in butter will elevate the flavor significantly, giving the soup a richer, more developed taste.
- Make it Ahead of Time: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it the day before and store it in the fridge. The flavors will continue to develop overnight, and you can easily reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
- Adjust Consistency: If the soup turns out too thick for your liking, simply add more milk or broth until you get your desired consistency.
Recipe Variations
While this recipe is already packed with flavor, there are several ways to customize it based on your tastes:
- Vegan/Vegetarian Version: Swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and use plant-based milk (like almond milk or oat milk) and dairy-free sour cream and cheese to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
- Add Extra Veggies: You can sneak in more veggies by adding celery, carrots, or leeks along with the potatoes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure all the vegetables are tender.
- Spicy Twist: For a little heat, stir in some chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes during cooking. This will add a delightful kick that pairs wonderfully with the creamy base.
- Herb Variations: While thyme is traditional, you can swap it out for rosemary, sage, or even dill for a unique twist.
Final Words
This Old Fashioned Potato Soup Crock Pot Recipe is the epitome of comfort food with the ease of slow cooking. It’s easy, versatile, and the results are always delicious. Plus, the leftovers (if you have any) taste even better the next day, making it a perfect dish for meal prep or family gatherings. The combination of tender potatoes, savory broth, and creamy cheese is the kind of soul-warming meal that’s bound to become a regular in your cooking rotation.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For An Old Fashioned Potato Soup Crock Pot Recipe?
The ingredients typically include potatoes, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, chicken broth, heavy cream or milk, butter, flour, and seasonings such as salt, pepper, and thyme. Optional toppings include bacon, cheese, and green onions.
Can I Use Any Type Of Potatoes For This Soup?
Yes, you can use various types of potatoes, but russet potatoes are most commonly used due to their starchy texture, which helps thicken the soup. Yukon gold or red potatoes can also work well for a creamier texture.
Do I Need To Peel The Potatoes For The Crock Pot Recipe?
It’s up to personal preference. Peeling the potatoes will result in a smoother, creamier soup, while leaving the skins on adds texture and nutrition to the dish.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Old Fashioned Potato Soup In A Crock Pot?
Typically, potato soup in a crock pot will take about 4-6 hours on low heat or 2-3 hours on high heat, depending on the size of the potato chunks and the heat level.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, the soup can be made ahead of time. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making it even more delicious. Reheat it on the stove or in the crock pot on low.
Can I Freeze Potato Soup Made In The Crock Pot?
Yes, potato soup can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, the texture may change slightly, but it will still taste great.
What Can I Use Instead Of Heavy Cream In This Recipe?
If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or even a non-dairy milk like almond milk. However, using these substitutions may affect the creaminess of the soup.
Can I Add Bacon To The Old Fashioned Potato Soup Crock Pot Recipe?
Yes, bacon can be added to the soup for extra flavor. You can either cook the bacon separately and add it at the end as a topping, or sauté the bacon with the onions and garlic at the beginning of the recipe.
How Do I Thicken The Potato Soup In The Crock Pot If It Is Too Thin?
If the soup is too thin, you can thicken it by mashing some of the potatoes directly in the pot or by adding a slurry of flour and water. Alternatively, you can mix in a bit of cornstarch or instant potato flakes to achieve a thicker consistency.
Can I Make The Soup Vegetarian Or Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make the soup vegetarian by substituting vegetable broth for chicken broth and using plant-based milk or cream instead of dairy. To make it vegan, substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter, and omit any bacon.