Crockpot Potato Soup

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a warm bowl of soup. This Crockpot Potato Soup is a celebration of all things cozy. With its thick, creamy texture and the delightful flavors of tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and cheddar cheese, it’s a dish that’s sure to warm both the body and soul. Plus, it’s packed with a few veggies for good measure, making it both delicious and satisfying. Let’s dive into what makes this soup so special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of comfort food, this Crockpot Potato Soup is going to be your new go-to recipe. It’s rich, creamy, and incredibly easy to make. No need to stand over the stove – just set it in the crockpot and let it work its magic. And let’s not forget the bacon! The crispy, savory bits of bacon add a mouthwatering depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheddar cheese and green onions. The addition of carrots, celery, and onion not only enhances the taste but also sneaks in some extra nutrition. It’s the perfect recipe for those chilly days when you want something hearty and soothing.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Crockpot (3-6 quart size)
• Baking sheet
• Cutting board
• Large glass bowl or measuring cup
• Whisk
• Spoon or scraper

Ingredients

• 2 lb golden potatoes (about 8 medium), diced
• 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 rib celery, diced
• 1/2 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 slices thick cut bacon
• 1/4 cup butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 green onions, sliced

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Place potatoes, broth, carrots, celery, onion, salt, garlic, parsley, thyme, and pepper into a 3-6 quart crockpot.
2. Put the lid on and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until the vegetables are tender.
3. Meanwhile, lay the bacon out flat on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until it reaches desired crispiness. Remove to a cutting board to cool slightly before chopping.
4. Just before the soup is done cooking, make the roux in the microwave.
5. In a large glass bowl or measuring cup, melt the butter on high in 30-second intervals.
6. Stir in the flour until completely absorbed.
7. Whisk in the milk until smooth, using a scraper to get into the edges of the cup and ensure all of the flour has been whisked into the milk.
8. Microwave on high in 45-second intervals, whisking each time, until thickened. Four times at 45 seconds was perfect for me. Be sure to keep an eye on it in the microwave as it will bubble up — you need to use a bowl or cup with lots of room left at the top.
9. Stir the thickened milk into the crockpot, along with 1 cup of cheese, and most of the cooked, chopped bacon (reserving some for topping).
10. Serve soup and top with remaining cheese, remaining bacon, and green onions.

Tips for Success

• Use a large enough crockpot to allow room for stirring and ingredient expansion.
• For extra flavor, consider using smoked bacon.
• Finely dice all vegetables for a smoother texture.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños. To make it vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère for a different flavor profile.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This soup provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fats, with the added benefit of essential vitamins and minerals from the vegetables used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes, russet or red potatoes can be substituted, but the texture may vary slightly.

Conclusion

There you have it – a delicious Crockpot Potato Soup that’s perfect for any chilly day. It’s simple, hearty, and sure to be a hit with family and friends. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below. I can’t wait to hear how it turned out for you!