If you’re looking for a rich, creamy, and comforting meal that requires minimal effort, this Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe is the perfect choice. Made with simple pantry ingredients, this slow cooker soup delivers incredible flavor while saving you time in the kitchen. Just toss everything into your crockpot and let it work its magic.
This hearty potato soup is perfect for cold days, family dinners, or meal prep. With its velvety texture, tender potatoes, and customizable toppings, it’s a crowd-pleasing recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the best crockpot potato soup, including ingredient tips, variations, storage instructions, and expert cooking advice.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe
This recipe stands out because of its simplicity and flavor. Here’s why it’s a favorite among home cooks:
- Easy to prepare — Minimal chopping and hands-off cooking
- Budget-friendly — Uses simple, affordable ingredients
- Rich and creamy texture — Pure comfort food
- Perfect for meal prep — Stores and reheats well
- Customizable — Add your favorite toppings and flavors
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this slow cooker potato soup is guaranteed to satisfy.
Ingredients for Crockpot Potato Soup
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple ingredients that create a rich and hearty dish.
Main Ingredients
- 6 large potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Green onions for garnish
Best Potatoes to Use
- Russet potatoes — Soft texture, ideal for creamy soup
- Yukon Gold potatoes — Naturally buttery flavor
- Red potatoes — Hold shape better for chunkier soup
Russet potatoes are generally recommended for the creamiest results.
How to Make Crockpot Potato Soup
This slow cooker method is simple and beginner-friendly.
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Peel and dice the potatoes into evenly sized cubes. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
Step 2: Add to Crockpot
Place potatoes, onion, garlic, broth, salt, pepper, and thyme into the crockpot. Stir to combine.
Step 3: Slow Cook
- Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or
- Cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours
Potatoes should be fork-tender.
Step 4: Make Cream Base
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in heavy cream until smooth and thickened.
Step 5: Blend the Soup
Use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash some potatoes directly in the crockpot for a creamy texture.
Step 6: Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in the cream mixture and shredded cheese. Cook on LOW for another 20–30 minutes.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Top with bacon, green onions, extra cheese, or sour cream before serving.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Potato Soup
Cut Potatoes Evenly
Uniform pieces ensure consistent cooking and smooth texture.
Don’t Overblend
Leave some potato chunks for a hearty consistency.
Use Full-Fat Dairy
Heavy cream provides the richest flavor and texture.
Add Cheese Slowly
Stir cheese gradually to prevent clumping.
Season at the End
Flavors develop during cooking, so adjust seasoning before serving.
Delicious Variations to Try for Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe
One of the best things about crockpot potato soup is its versatility.
Loaded Crockpot Potato Soup
Add extra bacon, cheddar cheese, and sour cream for a loaded baked potato flavor.
Healthy Potato Soup
Use low-fat milk instead of cream and add extra vegetables like carrots or celery.
Vegetarian Version
Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip bacon.
Spicy Potato Soup
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
Cheesy Broccoli Potato Soup
Stir in steamed broccoli and extra cheddar cheese.
What to Serve with Crockpot Potato Soup
Pair this creamy soup with complementary sides for a complete meal.
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls
- Garlic bread
- Fresh green salad
- Grilled cheese sandwich
- Roasted vegetables
These sides balance the richness of the soup and enhance the dining experience.
How to Store and Reheat Potato Soup
Refrigeration
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Freeze for up to 3 months. Note that dairy-based soups may slightly change texture when thawed.
Reheating
Warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Too Much Liquid
Potatoes release moisture, so avoid excess broth.
Skipping the Thickening Step
The butter and flour mixture gives the soup its creamy consistency.
Adding Dairy Too Early
Always add milk or cream near the end to prevent curdling.
Undercooking Potatoes
Ensure potatoes are fully tender before blending.
Nutritional Benefits of Potato Soup
Potatoes are not only filling but also nutritious.
- High in fiber
- Good source of potassium
- Contains vitamin C
- Provides lasting energy
You can make the recipe healthier by reducing cheese and using low-fat dairy options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make potato soup without cream?
Yes. Substitute milk, evaporated milk, or dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk.
How do I thicken potato soup?
Mash more potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry.
Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, but fresh potatoes provide better flavor and texture.
Is crockpot potato soup gluten-free?
Use cornstarch instead of flour to make it gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe is the ultimate comfort food — creamy, hearty, and incredibly easy to make. With minimal preparation and rich flavors, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or cozy winter meals. The slow cooker does all the work while you enjoy a delicious homemade soup packed with flavor.
