📑 Table of Contents ▶
- Simple Crockpot Potato Soup
- Fundamentals
- Preparation/setup
- Directions
- Techniques
- Tips/Tricks
- Perfecting Results
- Troubleshooting/Variations
- Serving/Presentation
- Pairings/Storage
- Simple Crockpot Potato Soup
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Simple Crockpot Potato Soup – Hi Sugarplum!
Cooking has a way of wrapping itself around memories, and for me, nothing evokes warmth quite like a simple crockpot potato soup. Growing up, chilly evenings often brought the family together around a table filled with steaming bowls of this comforting dish. Mom would prepare it early in the day, letting the ingredients mingle and develop a rich flavor, really bringing everyone home.
There’s something truly special about potato soup—easy to make yet extraordinarily satisfying. The mixture of creamy potatoes and savory broth warms the soul. I remember my siblings and me hovering around the kitchen, eagerly awaiting the first taste, as the hearty aroma filled the air. It felt like a big hug after a long day; every sip of the thick, velvety soup brought comfort and connection.
Over the years, I’ve experimented with countless variations of this classic dish. The beauty of crockpot potato soup lies in its simplicity. It uses just a handful of ingredients, making it approachable for any home cook. Whether you enjoy it on a busy weeknight or serve it at a gathering, this soup always delivers delight.
Here’s how to bring this uncomplicated yet delicious crockpot potato soup to your table.
Simple Crockpot Potato Soup
Fundamentals
Potato soup is about making the right choices with fresh, quality ingredients. The star of this dish, of course, is the potatoes. Select starchy varieties, such as Russet or Yukon Gold, for the best creamy texture. These types break down beautifully during cooking, creating a luscious base for your soup.
Next, consider the broth. A rich vegetable or chicken broth enhances the flavor without overshadowing the potatoes. Fresh herbs—like thyme or rosemary—can also elevate the taste, adding depth to every spoonful.
The crockpot does most of the work for you. Set it up in the morning, and by lunchtime, your house will emanate mouthwatering scents that beckon you to the kitchen.
Preparation/setup
To set up your crockpot potato soup, start with the potatoes. Wash them thoroughly and peel them if desired. Cut the potatoes into uniform cubes. Uniformity ensures even cooking, so aim for pieces that are about 1-inch thick.
Next, chop onions, garlic, and any other vegetables you want to include. Sautéing these ingredients before adding them to the crockpot can intensify their flavors, but it’s not a must. Toss the chopped vegetables and potatoes into the crockpot, layering them carefully.
Then, pour in your chosen broth. Follow this with salt, pepper, and herbs. Be cautious with the salt. Remember, you can always adjust to your taste later. Trust your instincts; cooking is as much about creativity as it is about following recipes.
Ingredients
Gather these essential ingredients for your simple crockpot potato soup:
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh or dried herbs (thyme, rosemary, or chives)
- Optional: 1 cup of heavy cream or milk for added creaminess
Directions
- Prepare the potatoes and chop the onions and garlic.
- Add the potatoes, onion, and garlic to the crockpot.
- Pour the broth over the vegetables and season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
- For a creamier consistency, stir in heavy cream or milk in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Blend the soup with an immersion blender for a smoother texture, if desired. Otherwise, keep it chunky.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and then serve warm.
Techniques
Making the perfect crockpot potato soup requires a few techniques to ensure an exceptional end result. Start by selecting the right potato variety, as the type can significantly impact texture and flavor. Starchy potatoes like Russets yield creamy soups, while waxy varieties may remain chunkier.
When cooking in a crockpot, it’s essential to layer your ingredients properly. Place heartier vegetables like potatoes at the bottom, where they can absorb the heat first. Softer vegetables go on top, allowing for gentle cooking. This method preserves their texture and prevents them from overcooking and becoming mushy.
Tips/Tricks
A few simple tricks can make your crockpot potato soup stand out. First, consider roasting the potatoes before adding them to the crockpot. Roasting enhances their natural flavor and adds a subtle depth to the soup.
Don’t shy away from adding in other vegetables like carrots or celery for extra nutrition and flavor. These additions complement the primary ingredients without overpowering them.
Also, an immersion blender offers a fantastic option to customize the texture of the soup. For those who enjoy a thicker, creamier soup, blending allows you to achieve that velvety consistency. If pureeing isn’t your style, leave some chunks for a heartier feel.
Perfecting Results
Achieving the perfect texture in your crockpot potato soup boils down to timing and temperature. Ensure you cut the potatoes into even pieces to allow for consistent cooking. Adjusting the cooking time based on your crockpot’s heat settings may be necessary. Some models run hotter than others, so keep an eye on your soup as it cooks.
For additional creaminess, you can mash some of the potatoes during cooking. Simply stir the soup in the last hour of cooking to incorporate those pieces into a thicker base, giving the soup satisfying texture without fully blending.
Troubleshooting/Variations
Sometimes recipes don’t turn out as expected. If your soup seems too thick, add additional broth or cream to achieve the desired consistency.
Not enough flavor? A splash of lemon juice or vinegar can brighten the soup. Simply add a small amount and taste as you go, ensuring you don’t overpower the existing flavors.
If you want to play with flavors, consider adding cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms. These ingredients bring a savory element that complements the potatoes beautifully.
Serving/Presentation
Serving your crockpot potato soup beautifully enhances the mealtime experience. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color. A sprinkle of cheese can also add a creamy touch, while crispy croutons provide a satisfying crunch.
Pair this soup with rustic bread or a fresh green salad, creating a perfect meal that balances comfort with health.
Pairings/Storage
While avoiding wine pairings, many non-alcoholic beverages complement potato soup wonderfully. Consider serving it alongside an apple cider or sparkling water infused with fresh fruits.
For storage, let any leftovers cool down, then transfer them to airtight containers. This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the soup thickens over time.
Enjoy this easy-crockpot potato soup in the comfort of your home, and experience the warmth it brings.
This simple yet delightful recipe captures the essence of comfort food, allowing you to create a nourishing meal that brings family and friends together around the table.
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Simple Crockpot Potato Soup
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting, creamy crockpot potato soup that’s easy to prepare and perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh or dried herbs (thyme, rosemary, or chives)
- Optional: 1 cup of heavy cream or milk for added creaminess
Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes and chop the onions and garlic.
- Add the potatoes, onion, and garlic to the crockpot.
- Pour the broth over the vegetables and season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
- For a creamier consistency, stir in heavy cream or milk in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Blend the soup with an immersion blender for a smoother texture, if desired. Otherwise, keep it chunky.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and serve warm.
Notes
For added flavor, consider roasting the potatoes before adding them to the crockpot or incorporate other vegetables like carrots or celery.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: crockpot, potato soup, comfort food, easy recipe
