Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Potato Soup Recipe
You’ll absolutely love this Slow Cooker Potato Soup recipe for its simplicity and heartwarming flavors.
There’s something so comforting about a bowl of creamy potato soup, especially when it practically cooks itself! I can toss the ingredients into my slow cooker and go about my day, knowing a delicious meal awaits me.
The aroma fills my home, making everyone enthusiastic for dinner. Plus, it’s perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings.
I often customize it with extra toppings, but the base recipe stands strong on its own. Trust me, you’ll find yourself making this again and again!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Potato Soup
When it comes to making a cozy pot of Slow Cooker Potato Soup, the ingredients are simple yet oh-so-satisfying. You probably have most of them already hanging out in your pantry or fridge. This recipe calls for hearty potatoes, savory ham, and a few aromatics that come together to create a deliciously creamy soup that warms you from the inside out.
Seriously, who doesn’t love a dish that practically cooks itself while you go about your day? Let’s break down what you need to gather before you plunge into it.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Potato Soup:
- 8 medium potatoes
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 ½ cups butter (or reduce to 1 cup for a lighter option)
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups water
- 2 cups warm milk
Now, you might be wondering about some ingredient swaps or additions. For instance, if you’re not a ham fan, feel free to leave it out or substitute with cooked bacon or even a plant-based option for a vegetarian twist.
And while we’re talking about customization, don’t forget to think about toppings. Crispy bacon bits, shredded cheese, or chopped green onions can really take this soup to the next level.
If you’re feeling adventurous, throwing in some garlic or herbs could elevate the flavor profile even more. Just remember, the base of this soup is all about that creamy potato goodness, so keep it cozy and comforting.
Happy cooking!
How to Make Slow Cooker Potato Soup
Alright, let’s plunge into the heart of this cozy dish: making the Slow Cooker Potato Soup. First things first, grab those 8 medium potatoes. You’ll want to peel and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Don’t worry about making them look perfect; we’re not entering a potato beauty pageant here. Just make sure they’re all roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
Next, take 1 cup of diced ham and toss that into the slow cooker along with your chopped potatoes. If ham isn’t your jam, feel free to get creative—bacon or even a veggie substitute will work just fine.
Now, it’s onion time. Grab that large onion, chop it up (maybe have a tissue handy if you’re sensitive to those pesky onion fumes), and add it to the mix. Then, measure out 1 ½ cups of butter—yes, it sounds like a lot, but it’s what makes this soup so creamy and dreamy. If you’re watching your calories, you can totally scale it back to 1 cup.
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of pepper and 1 teaspoon of salt to season the whole thing. Finally, pour in 4 cups of water to bring it all together. Give everything a gentle stir, cover the slow cooker, and let it work its magic on low for about 4 to 6 hours.
Now here’s the trick: about 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, take 2 cups of warm milk and add it to the pot. It’s essential to use warm milk because cold milk will stop the cooking process, and we definitely don’t want that—trust me, I’ve learned the hard way.
If you want your soup to be a little thicker, this is also the moment to sprinkle in some instant potato flakes to taste. They really help give that luscious, velvety texture that makes you want to curl up with a bowl and a good book.
Once it’s all warmed through and you’ve adjusted the seasonings to your liking, ladle it out into bowls and don’t forget to sprinkle on your favorite toppings. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this simple yet satisfying meal; it’s like a hug in a bowl.
Slow Cooker Potato Soup Substitutions & Variations
After whipping up that delicious pot of Slow Cooker Potato Soup, you might find yourself wanting to mix things up a bit.
I love experimenting with different ingredients! For a creamy twist, you can swap in sour cream or cream cheese instead of some milk.
If you’re looking for a heartier version, adding cooked bacon or sausage works wonders.
I’ve also tried using sweet potatoes for a unique flavor.
For a veggie boost, toss in carrots or celery.
And don’t forget about spices! A pinch of garlic powder or cayenne pepper can add a delightful kick to your soup.
Enjoy!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Potato Soup
Serving Slow Cooker Potato Soup is a delightful experience, and pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal.
I love serving this creamy soup with warm, crusty bread or soft dinner rolls; they’re perfect for dipping! A fresh garden salad adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the soup.
If I’m feeling indulgent, I’ll whip up some cheesy garlic bread, which complements the flavors beautifully. For a hearty touch, consider pairing it with a simple grilled cheese sandwich.
These sides create a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!
Additional Tips & Notes
While cooking the soup, I recommend keeping an eye on the consistency, as different slow cookers may vary in temperature and cooking time.
If you find the soup too thin, just stir in some instant potato flakes to thicken it up. I also suggest using warm milk instead of cold to prevent curdling.
For added flavor, consider tossing in some herbs like thyme or parsley. If you love a little heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper can really elevate the dish.
Finally, don’t hesitate to adjust the salt and pepper to your taste—everyone’s palate is different! Enjoy your cozy soup!