Cheesy Potatoes Soup Crock Pot Recipe

Cheesy Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food-a rich, creamy bowl that’s perfect for those chilly nights when you need something hearty and indulgent. Imagine thick, velvety cheese melting into soft potatoes, with every spoonful bursting with flavor. But let’s be real: while the soup is delicious, it can sometimes be a bit of a hassle to make. That’s where the Crock Pot (slow cooker) comes to the rescue! This recipe allows you to throw everything in and walk away while it works its magic. You get to enjoy the creamy goodness without all the time-consuming effort. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a big bowl of cozy warmth, this cheesy potato soup is a game-changer.

Cheesy Potatoes Soup Crock Pot Recipe

This cheesy potato soup recipe is made to be easy, creamy, and absolutely irresistible. The slow cooker takes all the heavy lifting out of cooking-letting you enjoy the flavors without hovering over the stove. The best part? It’s fully customizable and can be made to suit your tastes, whether you prefer extra cheese or want to sneak in some veggies.

The combination of hearty potatoes, sharp cheddar, and rich cream gives it a smooth texture that feels like a warm hug. With just a handful of ingredients, you can have a meal that’s both comforting and filling. Here’s how to do it.

Ingredients Needed

For this recipe, you don’t need to run to a specialty store. Most of these ingredients are pantry staples you likely already have, making this a go-to option for busy days.

• 4 cups of diced potatoes – Choose waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamier texture.
• 1 small onion – Adds a mild sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
• 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth – This will form the base of your soup, giving it richness without being too heavy.
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese – You want a good, sharp cheddar here for that bold, rich flavor.
• 1 cup of heavy cream – This is the key to that ultra-creamy, dreamy texture.
• 2 tablespoons of butter – Adds a little richness to the soup and helps create a velvety base.
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder – For an easy garlic kick without the effort of chopping fresh garlic.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning, adjusting these to taste.
• Optional toppings: Crumbled bacon, fresh chives, sour cream, or even extra shredded cheese.

Cooking Instructions

Here’s the beauty of slow cooker recipes: throw everything in, set it, and forget it! The prep work for this cheesy potato soup is minimal, and the cooking process couldn’t be simpler.

1. Prep the potatoes: Wash and peel your potatoes if you prefer, then cut them into small, bite-sized cubes. You don’t have to be too precise here-just make sure they’re all about the same size for even cooking.
2. Combine ingredients in the Crock Pot: Add the diced potatoes, onion, garlic powder, chicken broth, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir everything together so the potatoes are covered by the broth.
3. Cook on low: Set your Crock Pot to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for about 3-4 hours. The potatoes should be tender and easily pierced with a fork.
4. Add the cheese and cream: Once the potatoes are fully cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and butter. Let it cook for another 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cheese is completely melted and the soup has thickened up.
5. Taste and adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper. If you want the soup to be a bit thicker, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the Crock Pot to create a creamier texture.
6. Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, like crumbled bacon, chopped chives, or a dollop of sour cream.

Ingredient Insights

• Potatoes: Potatoes are the heart of this dish. The best varieties for soups are waxy potatoes, like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. They break down slightly during cooking, giving the soup a natural creaminess without being mushy. They also absorb flavors wonderfully, soaking up the broth and cheese.
• Cheddar Cheese: The quality of the cheddar really matters. Opt for sharp cheddar if you want a bold, tangy flavor. If you like it milder, choose medium or mild cheddar. Mixing in a little bit of Monterey Jack or Gouda can also elevate the flavor, giving it a smoky depth.
• Heavy Cream: This is what turns your soup from good to great. The cream makes the soup luxurious and velvety, balancing the sharpness of the cheese and creating a smooth texture. If you want a lighter version, you could sub in half-and-half or milk, but it won’t have the same richness.
• Chicken Broth: Using broth instead of water ensures that the soup has depth and flavor. You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or chicken broth for extra savory notes. If you’re watching sodium intake, opt for a low-sodium version.

Expert Tips

• For a thicker soup: If you want your soup to have a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the potatoes with a potato masher or the back of a spoon right in the Crock Pot. This helps create a heartier texture, perfect for those who like a more substantial soup.
• Use a mix of cheeses: While cheddar is the star of the show, mixing in other cheeses can add layers of flavor. Try Gruyère for a slightly nutty, creamy twist, or pepper jack for a kick of spice.
• Add in extra veggies: Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? Add in some chopped carrots, celery, or even cauliflower. Just chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly and blend seamlessly into the soup.
• For extra richness: Stir in some cream cheese or a bit of sour cream toward the end of cooking. This will make the soup even creamier and add a slight tang that pairs beautifully with the cheese.

Recipe Variations

• Bacon Cheddar Potato Soup: Add some crispy bacon crumbles into the soup before serving. Not only does it bring a salty crunch, but the smoky flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes and cheese.
• Loaded Potato Soup: Make it a full meal by topping your soup with all your favorite loaded potato toppings-chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, sour cream, and extra shredded cheese.
• Vegan Cheesy Potato Soup: For a plant-based twist, you can use vegan butter, non-dairy milk, and plant-based cheese. Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’ll have a dairy-free, vegan version of this comforting dish.
• Spicy Cheesy Potato Soup: Add a bit of heat with chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. For even more flavor, sprinkle some chili powder or paprika into the mix.

Final Words

This cheesy potato soup is the epitome of comfort in a bowl. The slow cooker makes it so easy to prepare, and the flavors are so rich and creamy, you’ll wonder why you ever cooked it any other way. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or enjoying a cozy night in, this soup is always a winner.