There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of potato soup, don’t you think? I still remember those chilly evenings when my mom would whip up a big pot of her famous potato soup. The aroma would fill the house, wrapping us in a cozy hug as we gathered around the dinner table. Now, I’ve taken that nostalgic feeling and transformed it into my beloved *crock pot potato soup with real potatoes*. It’s everything you want in a comfort food—creamy, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying.
The best part? You don’t have to be a culinary whiz to make it! Just toss in diced potatoes, chopped onions, and minced garlic into your crock pot, add some vegetable broth, and let it do its magic. With minimal hands-on time, you can set it and forget it. A few hours later, you’ll be rewarded with a luscious soup that feels like a warm embrace on a cold day. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients List
Get ready to gather your ingredients for the *crock pot potato soup with real potatoes*! This hearty and creamy soup comes together effortlessly with just a handful of simple, fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 medium potatoes, diced: Choose your favorite variety, but I love using Yukon Golds for their buttery flavor and creamy texture.
- 1 onion, chopped: The onion adds a sweet and savory base that enhances the soup’s depth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is essential! It brings a wonderful aroma and flavor to the mix.
- 4 cups vegetable broth: This is the soul of your soup. A good-quality broth makes all the difference in flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: For that luxurious creaminess that makes this soup so comforting.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste, but it’s key for bringing out all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Just enough to add a little warmth without overpowering the soup.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese: I like to use sharp cheddar for a nice kick, but feel free to use your favorite!
- 2 green onions, sliced: These add a fresh, vibrant touch as a garnish at the end.
Key Ingredients for Crock Pot Potato Soup
Let’s dive a little deeper into why each of these ingredients is so important:
- Potatoes: They’re the star of the show! Diced real potatoes give the soup its hearty texture and comforting feel, making every spoonful satisfying.
- Onion: When cooked down, the onion adds a natural sweetness that balances the flavors and deepens the overall taste of the soup.
- Garlic: This aromatic ingredient not only enhances the flavor profile but also brings a warmth that’s hard to resist.
- Vegetable broth: It serves as the flavorful base for our soup, infusing it with rich, savory notes. Go for low-sodium if you like to control the saltiness!
- Heavy cream: This is what makes your soup luxuriously creamy and smooth. It’s worth the extra calories for that velvety mouthfeel!
- Salt and pepper: These simple seasonings are essential for bringing out and balancing the flavors of the ingredients.
- Cheese: Adding shredded cheese not only enhances the creaminess but also gives a delightful cheesy flavor that pairs perfectly with the potatoes.
- Green onions: These are the finishing touch! They add a pop of color and a fresh crunch that brightens up every bowl.
How to Prepare Crock Pot Potato Soup with Real Potatoes
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Making this *crock pot potato soup with real potatoes* is super straightforward and requires very little active time. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious, creamy soup waiting for you at the end of the day.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Prep Your Vegetables:** Start by washing and peeling the potatoes. Then, dice them into bite-sized pieces. I find that cutting them into about 1-inch cubes works best for even cooking. Next, chop your onion and mince the garlic. It’s okay if your chopping isn’t perfect; the crock pot will work its magic!
2. **Load It Up:** In your crock pot, toss in the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Pour in the 4 cups of vegetable broth, and give it a little stir. Add the salt and black pepper to the mix. Don’t worry if it looks like a mountain of veggies; they’ll cook down nicely!
3. **Set and Forget:** Now comes the best part! Cover the crock pot with the lid, and set it to cook. If you’re short on time, go for the **high setting** and let it cook for about 3-4 hours. If you can plan ahead, the **low setting** is perfect, and it’ll be ready in about 6-8 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld together!
4. **Finishing Touches:** Once your cooking time is up, it’s time to bring in the creaminess! Stir in the 1 cup of heavy cream and the shredded cheese until it’s all melted and combined. For a truly velvety soup, you can blend a portion of it using an immersion blender. This step is optional, but it makes the soup extra creamy!
5. **Serve it Up:** Ladle the soup into bowls, and don’t forget to garnish with those sliced green onions for a fresh finish. You can also sprinkle a bit more cheese on top if you like it extra cheesy!
Tips for a Perfect Soup
To ensure your *crock pot potato soup with real potatoes* turns out perfect every time, here are some handy tips:
- Seasoning Adjustments: Taste your soup before serving! You might want to add a little more salt or pepper, depending on your preference. Remember, seasonings can always be adjusted at the end.
- Optional Add-Ins: For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon or diced ham before cooking. It’ll infuse the broth with savory goodness!
- Leftover Love: If you have leftover soup, it stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up if needed.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or even throw in some chopped vegetables like carrots or celery for added texture and flavor!
With these steps and tips, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a warm bowl of homemade comfort. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information Section
Here’s the estimated nutritional information for a serving of my *crock pot potato soup with real potatoes*. These values can help you keep track of what you’re eating, but remember, they’re just estimates!
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
These numbers can vary slightly based on the exact ingredients you use, but overall, this soup is a satisfying and hearty option that can fit into a balanced diet! Enjoy every creamy bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This *crock pot potato soup with real potatoes* is truly a winner for so many reasons. If you’re looking for a meal that warms your soul and fills your belly, this is it! Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this comforting recipe:
- Easy Preparation: With just a little chopping and a few minutes of prep, you can toss everything into the crock pot and let it do the work for you. It’s perfect for busy days when you want to come home to something delicious!
- Hearty and Creamy Texture: The combination of real potatoes and heavy cream creates a soup that’s indulgently creamy and satisfying. Each spoonful feels like a warm hug!
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This soup is entirely vegetarian, making it a great option for meatless meals without sacrificing flavor or heartiness.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It stores beautifully in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep. You can enjoy it throughout the week, reheating it easily for quick lunches or dinners.
- Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite ingredients! Whether it’s adding more veggies, using different cheeses, or throwing in some Turkey Turkey Bacon, this recipe is flexible to your taste!
Once you try it, you’ll see why this soup has a special place in my heart. It’s comfort food made simple and delicious!
FAQ Section
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Absolutely! While I love using Yukon Golds for their creamy texture and buttery flavor, you can experiment with other varieties too. Russet potatoes work well and create a fluffier soup, while red potatoes hold their shape better and add a lovely color. Just keep in mind that different potatoes might slightly alter the soup’s texture and flavor, but it’ll still be delicious!
How can I make this soup healthier?
If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, there are some easy swaps you can make. First, consider using half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a slightly lighter version. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat cheese option. Adding more vegetables like carrots or celery can boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor. Trust me, it’ll still taste amazing!
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Leftover *crock pot potato soup with real potatoes* can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it seems too thick, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth or milk to loosen it up. Microwaving is also an option—just make sure to stir it halfway through heating for even warmth!
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can definitely freeze this soup! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. It should keep well in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. If the texture changes a bit after freezing, just blend it again for that creamy consistency!
Serving Suggestions for Crock Pot Potato Soup
Once your *crock pot potato soup with real potatoes* is ready to serve, it’s time to think about what to pair with it for a complete meal! This soup is so hearty and creamy on its own, but a few simple additions can elevate your dining experience to the next level.
First up, let’s talk about bread. A warm, crusty loaf of sourdough or a soft dinner roll is perfect for dipping into that luscious soup. Trust me, there’s nothing better than sopping up the last bits with a piece of bread! If you’re feeling a bit fancy, homemade garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks would also complement the flavors beautifully.
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, consider serving a fresh green salad on the side. A simple mix of greens topped with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup. You could even toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of feta for extra flavor and texture!
For garnishing, don’t forget the power of toppings! Besides those sliced green onions, you can add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a little tang. A sprinkle of crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon bits or extra shredded cheese can also take it over the top! If you love a bit of heat, a dash of hot sauce or some jalapeños can add a nice kick.
With these serving suggestions, you’ll have a cozy, satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Call to Action
I hope you’re as excited to try this *crock pot potato soup with real potatoes* as I am to share it with you! If you give this recipe a whirl, I’d love to hear all about your experience. Did you customize it with any of your favorite add-ins? How did it turn out? Your feedback means the world to me!
Feel free to drop a comment below to share your thoughts, ask questions, or just say hi! And if you enjoyed the soup (which I’m sure you will!), please consider rating the recipe. Your insights can help others discover this delicious comfort food, and who doesn’t want to spread the love for a hearty bowl of potato soup?
Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear from you!
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Crock Pot Potato Soup with Real Potatoes: 5 Comforting Tips
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy and hearty potato soup made in a crock pot.
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Place diced potatoes, onion, and garlic in the crock pot.
- Add vegetable broth, salt, and pepper.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, stir in heavy cream and cheese.
- Blend soup for a creamy texture if desired.
- Garnish with green onions before serving.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Add Turkey Turkey Bacon for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Crock Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: crock pot potato soup, potato soup, easy potato soup
