Potato Soup Crock Pot
Warm up your evenings with a delightful bowl of potato soup made effortlessly in a crock pot. This creamy dish combines tender potatoes, savory seasonings, and a touch of cheese for a comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly days. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this soup will become a family favorite, providing both nourishment and satisfaction with every spoonful.
Ingredients
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 carrots, sliced
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and the cooking time in the crock pot is approximately 6-8 hours on low.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 8g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 3g
This information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small cubes.
2. Chop the onion and slice the carrots.
3. In the crock pot, combine the potatoes, onion, carrots, and minced garlic.
4. Pour the vegetable or chicken broth over the vegetables.
5. Season with thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Stir all ingredients together to combine.
7. Cover the crock pot and set it to low for 6-8 hours.
8. Once the vegetables are tender, use a potato masher to blend slightly for a creamy texture.
9. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
10. Serve hot, garnished with chives or bacon bits if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk for a lighter version. Additionally, use sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile or add cooked bacon for extra richness.
Serving and Pairings
This potato soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if the soup thickens. This soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the potatoes to prevent them from becoming mushy.
– Don’t skip the seasoning; it’s crucial for a flavorful soup.
– Ensure you cover the crock pot to maintain moisture.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
– Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, if possible.
Helpful Tips
РFor a richer taste, saut̩ the onions and garlic before adding them to the crock pot.
– Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness at the end.
– Consider blending part of the soup for a creamier consistency.
– Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.
FAQs
Can I make potato soup in a regular pot instead of a crock pot?
Yes, you can make potato soup on the stovetop. Simply cook the ingredients in a large pot over medium heat, adjusting cooking times as necessary until the potatoes are tender.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make the soup vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any meat toppings.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like celery, corn, or green beans for added flavor and nutrition.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this potato soup is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth and avoid adding any thickening agents that contain gluten.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper during cooking. You can also top with hot sauce before serving.
Conclusion
This crock pot potato soup is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction. Easy to prepare and versatile, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy a bowl today!
Potato Soup Crock Pot
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 carrots sliced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes.
- Chop the onion and slice the carrots.
- In the crock pot, combine the potatoes, onion, carrots, and minced garlic.
- Pour the vegetable or chicken broth over the vegetables.
- Season with thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cover the crock pot and set it to low for 6-8 hours.
- Once the vegetables are tender, use a potato masher to blend slightly.
- Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Serve hot, garnished with chives or bacon bits if desired.
