Easy Crockpot Potato Soup

Creating a delicious and wholesome crockpot potato soup without heavy cream is a breeze. This budget-friendly, family-friendly meal is both nutritious and easy to whip up.

Indulging in affordable, nutritious crockpot recipes such as this potato soup has become a go to meal in many households. Unlike its traditional counterpart, this potato soup significantly reduces fat and calorie content. The best part? It won’t break the bank, costing you less than $3.00 per serving. Delicious and healthy yet cheap crockpot meals like this potato soup are family favorites.

Imagine a steaming bowl of creamy potato goodness, brimming with flavor but without the guilt of excessive calories. Your family will relish each spoonful of this delightful, cost-effective soup. Plus, with its simplicity and health-conscious ingredients, it’s a win-win for both your taste buds and your wallet. Make this easy crockpot potato soup your new go-to meal for satisfying, wallet-friendly, and nutritious dining.

How To Make

Creating this delicious cost-effective crockpot potato soup is a straightforward process that results in a creamy and satisfying meal. Begin by preparing the key ingredients: 3 pounds of red potatoes, washed and quartered, 1 medium onion, finely chopped, and 32 ounces of chicken broth.

Place the prepped potatoes, chopped onion, and chicken broth into your slow cooker, setting it to cook on low for 8 hours or opting for a faster preparation by cooking on high for 4-6 hours. This extended cooking time allows the flavors to meld, yielding a rich and hearty base for your soup.

After the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to carefully blend the soup until smooth, giving it that velvety texture without the need for heavy cream.

To thicken the soup, melt 3 tablespoons of salted butter in a medium-sized sauté pan over medium heat. Gradually whisk in 3 tablespoons of gluten-free flour. Slowly pour in 2 cups of milk while whisking continuously, adding it a little at a time to create a thick roux.

Incorporate the prepared roux into the slow cooker, whisking it gently into the potato mixture to thicken the soup to perfection. Add a can of drained kernel corn and 3 tablespoons of tamari for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Ladle your creamy crockpot potato soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of optional toppings, such as crispy bacon bits, a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese, and a scattering of chives.

Substitutions

• For a more decadent soup, use whole milk or heavy cream instead of 1% milk
• Blend in some cream cheese at the end of the cooking time for a creamier soup
• Try frozen diced potatoes instead of fresh potatoes
• Add frozen mixed veggies after pureeing the soup rather than canned corn.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Potato Selection: Choose waxy potatoes like red or Yukon Gold for this soup. They hold their shape better during slow cooking and result in a smoother texture.
• Saute the Onions: Before adding them to the slow cooker, consider sautéing the chopped onions in a bit of butter or oil until they turn translucent. This enhances their flavor and adds depth to the soup.
• Season Well: Potatoes can be a bit bland on their own, so don’t skimp on seasoning. Add salt and pepper to taste, and consider other herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or paprika for extra flavor.
• Liquid Amount: The amount of liquid can be adjusted to your desired consistency. If you like a thicker soup, use less broth, and if you prefer it thinner, add more.
• Roux for Creaminess: Making a roux with butter, flour, and milk adds creaminess without the need for heavy cream. Ensure the roux is well-mixed before adding it to the slow cooker to prevent lumps.
• Blend Carefully: If you’re using an immersion blender to puree the soup, do so carefully, avoiding splatters. If using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending and do it in batches if necessary.
• Corn Variations: Feel free to experiment with different corn varieties like frozen corn kernels, fresh corn cut off the cob, or even creamed corn for a unique twist.
• Taste Test: Always taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed. Remember that flavors can intensify during long, slow cooking.
• Toppings Galore: Get creative with toppings! Besides the classic bacon bits, shredded cheese, and chives, consider options like sour cream, green onions, croutons, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
• Serve with Bread: Crockpot potato soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, dinner rolls, or a side salad for a more complete meal.

FAQ

Storage Instructions

First, allow the soup to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer any leftover soup to an airtight container, making sure to leave some room at the top for expansion during freezing. Alternatively, you can use freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container or bag with the date for easy reference. In the refrigerator, your soup will remain fresh for up to 3-4 days. For longer-term storage, freeze it for up to 2-3 months.

When reheating, gently warm the soup over low to medium heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to reach your desired consistency. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and uneven heating.

More budget-friendly meals: 

• Baked Chicken Thighs
• Turkey Casserole
• Baked Spaghetti
• Tater Tot Casserole