Crock-Pot Potato Soup: A Comforting and Easy Recipe
Are you looking for a hearty, delicious, and easy soup recipe that will warm you up on a chilly evening? Look no further! This Crock-Pot Potato Soup recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and lazy weekends alike. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal effort, and is incredibly satisfying. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous cooking session. Here's what you'll need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup milk or cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Fresh chives or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional additions: Bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream
Step-by-Step Instructions:
This recipe is designed for simplicity, even for beginner cooks. Let's dive in!
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Combine in the Crock-Pot
- Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your Crock-Pot.
- Add the cubed potatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, rosemary, pepper, and salt.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 3: Cook on Low
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are very tender.
Step 4: Blend (Optional)
- For a creamier soup, carefully use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup to your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Always vent the lid when blending hot liquids.
Step 5: Stir in Milk/Cream (Optional)
- If using, stir in the milk or cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chives or green onions, bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
Tips and Variations for Your Crock-Pot Potato Soup:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Add protein: Include cooked sausage, shredded chicken, or ham for extra protein.
- Make it cheesy: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese or Gruyere during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Boost the flavor: Use homemade vegetable broth for a richer, more flavorful soup.
- Leftovers: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This Crock-Pot Potato Soup recipe is a versatile and delicious meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy! Remember to share your creations and tag us! #crockpotsoup #potatosoup #easysoup #comfortfood #souprecipe #homemade
