With the ease of a slow cooker, you can enjoy the heartwarming goodness of a classic comfort dish. Slow Cooker Potato Soup combines the creamy richness of potatoes with the ease of a slow-cooked dish. You can savor a bowl of velvety soup with minimal effort, which is ideal for chilly days or whenever you crave a taste of comfort and warmth.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups peeled and diced potatoes (russet or Yukon gold)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- Optional toppings: crumbled bacon, chopped chives, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Prep and Set: Place the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic in the slow cooker.
2. Broth and Aromatics: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
3. Slow Cooker Magic: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for about 6-8 hours, or on high for about 3-4 hours. The potatoes should become tender and easily mashable.
4. Creamy Transformation: Using a potato masher or immersion blender, mash or blend the potatoes in the slow cooker until you achieve your desired level of creaminess. You can leave some chunks for texture.
5. Creamy Addition: Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half to create a luscious and creamy base for the soup.
6. Cheesy Goodness: Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the soup and stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is velvety.
7. Taste and Adjust: Give the soup a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serving Style: Ladle the creamy Slow Cooker Potato Soup into bowls. If desired, top each serving with extra shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped chives, and a dollop of sour cream.
9. Cozy Comfort: Enjoy the soup while it’s still warm, savoring the creamy texture and hearty flavors.
Conclusion: Slow Cooker Potato Soup is a cozy and satisfying option for anyone seeking comfort in a bowl. With its creamy potato base and optional toppings, this soup offers a customizable experience that warms both the body and the soul. Share it with loved ones or savor it as a solo treat, and let the slow cooker do the work as you enjoy the rich flavors and soothing comfort of a well-made potato soup.