As the cozy chill of autumn settles in, there’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a hearty bowl of soup. I found myself yearning for something easy yet deeply satisfying, and that’s when my Crockpot Potato Soup came to life! It’s a recipe that blends rich, creamy potatoes with the savory goodness of bacon and cheese—all just waiting for you to dive in after a long day.

Picture this: the inviting aroma of garlic and melted cheddar wafting through your kitchen, wrapping around your family like a comforting hug. This is more than a soup; it’s a delightful experience that invites conversation, laughter, and full bellies gathered around the table. Plus, the beauty of this dish is its flexibility! You can customize it to your taste or dietary needs, ensuring every spoonful is nothing short of perfection. Join me as we whip up this easy crockpot potato soup that your family will devour and keep coming back for more!

Why is this Easy Crockpot Potato Soup a Must-Try?

Comforting Warmth: This is the ultimate cozy dish for chilly nights, perfect for wrapping yourself in a blanket.

Effortless Preparation: Just toss the ingredients in your crockpot and let it do the work—no fussing over the stove!

Customizable Goodness: Feel free to experiment with toppings or add your favorite veggies to make it uniquely yours.

Budget-Friendly Meal: This recipe keeps your wallet happy without sacrificing flavors—ideal for families or gatherings.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: With rich creaminess and savory goodness, it’s sure to be a hit even with picky eaters!

For even more delicious ideas, check out my family-favorite soup recipes.

Easy Crockpot Potato Soup Ingredients

For the Base

Potatoes – Yukon Gold potatoes yield the creamiest texture; russets can be a good substitute if needed.
Broth – Chicken or vegetable broth adds depth; vegetable broth ensures a vegetarian-friendly option.

For Creaminess

Cheddar Cheese – Sharp cheddar provides robust flavor; swap for smoked gouda or Monterey Jack for a fun twist.
Sour Cream – Adds a delightful tang; Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter alternative.

For Flavor

Bacon – Pre-cooked bacon gives a savory crunch; turkey bacon can lighten the dish, or omit for vegetarian options.
Garlic – Fresh garlic or garlic powder enhances flavor depth with ease.
Seasonings (salt, pepper, optional paprika) – Use to taste for a personalized flavor boost.

Optional Add-ins

Vegetables – Add corn or broccoli for additional nutrition and flavor; feel free to get creative with what you love!
Protein – Incorporate diced ham or chicken to make it more filling.

With these ingredients, you’re all set to create an easy crockpot potato soup that your family will devour! Enjoy the process and the flavors that unfold.

How to Make Easy Crockpot Potato Soup

Cook the Bacon: Start by cooking the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Set it aside, allowing it to cool before you crumble it for a crunchy topping later.
Prepare the Potatoes: Chop your Yukon Gold potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Add them to the crockpot along with the chicken or vegetable broth, minced garlic, and seasonings.
Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Aim for the potatoes to be tender when it’s done; that’s when the magic happens!
Mash for Thickness: Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher to mash a portion of them directly in the pot. This thickens the soup beautifully without any heavy cream.
Stir in Cheese and Cream: Gently mix in the cheddar cheese until it melts, followed by the sour cream. This adds a rich, creamy finish and enhances the flavor dramatically!
Garnish and Serve: Before dish up, sprinkle the reserved bacon on top along with your choice of green onions or extra cheese. Serve hot and watch everyone dig in!

Optional: Enjoy with crusty bread or dinner rolls for an extra cozy meal.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Easy Crockpot Potato Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk if the soup has thickened.

Freezer: Freeze without dairy for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge, then heat and stir in fresh cheese and sour cream.

Reheating: For optimal flavor and texture, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the soup out for more than 2 hours to maintain food safety.

What to Serve with Easy Crockpot Potato Soup?

As you prepare to enjoy this creamy delight, consider delightful pairings that elevate the experience even further.

Crusty Bread: This is a classic companion, perfect for soaking up the rich soup while adding a delightful crunch.
Garlic Breadsticks: The aromatic garlic and warm, buttery flavor melt into every bite, enhancing the comforting vibe of your meal.
Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad offers a bright contrast to the creamy soup, balancing flavors and adding nutritional value to your meal. Dress it lightly to maintain that refreshing taste!
Roasted Vegetables: Adding sweet, caramelized veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts provides a satisfying texture and boosts the meal’s wholesome appeal.
Soft Dinner Rolls: Light and fluffy rolls are perfect for dipping, making each mouthful of soup even more indulgent.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: A refreshing beverage cuts through the richness of the soup, keeping you hydrated and adding a touch of zest to each sip.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, these warm, gooey treats provide a sweet ending that complements the savory soup; can’t resist a classic!

Embrace these pairings to create a memorable dining experience your family will love!

Expert Tips for Easy Crockpot Potato Soup

Choose the Right Potatoes: Using Yukon Gold potatoes gives the best creamy texture. If not available, russets can work as a substitute.
Enhance Flavor Wisely: Don’t skimp on seasonings! Taste as you go to ensure your easy crockpot potato soup has rich and balanced flavors.
Perfect Bacon Texture: Always cook bacon until crispy before adding it to the soup; this prevents a rubbery texture and maintains that crunchy contrast.
Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash more potatoes; for a thinner consistency, simply add a splash of broth as needed.
Cooking Time Matters: Monitor cooking times closely, especially if using frozen potatoes or hashbrowns, as they can change how long the soup needs to cook.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Crockpot Potato Soup preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can chop the potatoes and store them in water (to prevent browning) for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Additionally, cook the bacon and crumble it ahead of time, storing it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When it’s time to enjoy your soup, simply transfer the potatoes and broth to the crockpot with the pre-cooked bacon and flavorings. Cook as directed, stir in the cheese and sour cream just before serving, and you’ll have a delicious, comforting dish ready in no time—always just as delightful as it is fresh!

Easy Crockpot Potato Soup Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe; let your tastes and dietary needs guide you to delectable new twists!

Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and skip the bacon for a hearty, meat-free version that still packs flavor.
Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to infuse heat and excitement into your bowl.
Creamy Without Dairy: Substitute Greek yogurt or silken tofu for sour cream to make it both creamy and dairy-free.
Extra Veggie Goodness: Toss in corn, broccoli, or spinach for a nutritional boost while adding vibrant color and texture.
Protein-Packed: Add diced ham, chicken, or cooked lentils to enrich the soup, making it a filling, satisfying meal.
Cheese Variety: Swap out cheddar for pepper jack for a spicy kick or smoked gouda for a rich depth of flavor.
Herbed Delight: Sprinkle in some fresh or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist that enhances comfort.
Baked Potato Style: Top with sour cream, chives, and extra cheese for a baked potato experience in every spoonful.

Let your creativity flow—your ideal soup is just a few twists away!

Easy Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes should I use for this soup?
Absolutely! Yukon Gold potatoes are preferred for their creamy texture, which perfectly enhances the soup’s richness. If they aren’t available, russet potatoes are a good backup option. Just be aware that russets may result in a slightly different consistency—still delicious, but not as velvety!

How should I store leftover potato soup?
Very easily! Store your leftover easy crockpot potato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk to bring it back to its creamy glory.

Can I freeze this soup, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can! To freeze, do so before adding any dairy. Transfer the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, ensuring to leave some space for expansion, and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then heat it on the stove and stir in fresh cheese and sour cream for that creamy finish.

What if my soup is too thick?
No worries! If you find that your soup has thickened more than you prefer, simply add a bit of broth or milk to loosen it up during reheating. If it’s still too thick, you can mash fewer potatoes next time to achieve your desired consistency. Play around with it until you find the perfect balance for your taste!

Is this potato soup suitable for special diets?
Absolutely! To make this easy crockpot potato soup vegetarian-friendly, simply use vegetable broth and omit the bacon or substitute it with turkey bacon for a leaner option. Moreover, if you’re lactose intolerant, Greek yogurt can be used instead of sour cream for a lighter version. Check for any specific allergies when selecting your cheese or broth options!

Can I add other ingredients to customize the soup?
The more the merrier! You can definitely add in more vegetables like corn or broccoli for extra nutrition. If you’d like to boost the protein content, diced ham or chicken works wonderfully. Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties or even throw in a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick!