Potato Soup Crock Pot
Warm up with a bowl of hearty potato soup made in your crock pot. This recipe is simple, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you focus on your day. With creamy potatoes, aromatic herbs, and optional toppings, this dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Whether served alone or with bread, it guarantees satisfaction. Let’s dive into the details of crafting this comforting meal!
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: cooked bacon bits, green onions for garnish
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
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 250 calories, 10g fat, 35g carbohydrates, 4g protein, and 600mg sodium. This is calculated for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes.
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Add potatoes, onion, and garlic to the crock pot.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and stir to combine.
- Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, use a potato masher to blend the soup to your desired consistency.
- Stir in the heavy cream until fully combined.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with bacon bits and green onions if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute heavy cream with milk or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version. You can also add vegetables like carrots or celery for extra nutrition and flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This potato soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich. It’s perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave. This soup can also be frozen; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip peeling the potatoes for a smoother texture.
- Be careful not to overcook; mushy potatoes can ruin the soup.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Don’t rush the cooking time; low and slow is key for flavor.
- Ensure the lid is on tightly during cooking to retain moisture.
- Mix in cream at the end to prevent curdling.
- Use fresh herbs for better flavor.
Helpful Tips
- For added flavor, sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the crock pot.
- Consider adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
- Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or dill for a twist.
- For a thicker soup, blend a portion of the potatoes before serving.
- Garnish with shredded cheese for extra richness.
FAQs
Can I make potato soup in advance?
Yes, potato soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It’s even more flavorful the next day as the ingredients meld together.
How can I thicken my potato soup?
To thicken potato soup, you can blend some of the potatoes directly in the pot or add a cornstarch slurry to achieve the desired consistency.
Is potato soup gluten-free?
Yes, this potato soup recipe is gluten-free as it uses vegetable broth and no flour thickening agents. Always check your broth label to ensure it’s gluten-free.
Can I use frozen potatoes in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen diced potatoes. Just add them to the crock pot without thawing, but keep in mind the cooking time may need slight adjustments.
What toppings work well with potato soup?
Popular toppings include crumbled bacon, cheese, chives, and sour cream. Feel free to get creative with your favorite toppings!
Conclusion
This potato soup crock pot recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting meal without the hassle. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a delicious dish simmering all day. Perfect for cold nights, it’s satisfying and versatile, sure to become a family favorite!
Potato Soup Crock Pot
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: cooked bacon bits green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes.
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Add potatoes, onion, and garlic to the crock pot.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and stir to combine.
- Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, use a potato masher to blend the soup to your desired consistency.
- Stir in the heavy cream until fully combined.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with bacon bits and green onions if desired.