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Pioneer Woman’s Creamy Crockpot Potato Soup

4.8/5

5 reviews

380min Total Time

8 people Servings

Easy Difficulty

Budget Cost

420 kcal Calories

Video

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Ingredients

6 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
1 large yellow onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
1/2 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional for thickening)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese for garnish
3 green onions, sliced for garnish

Instructions

Place peeled and diced potatoes, onion, and garlic in the crockpot

Pour chicken or vegetable broth over the vegetables

Add salt, pepper, and dried thyme

Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours until potatoes are very tender

Using a potato masher, partially mash some of the potatoes to thicken the soup while leaving some chunks for texture

Add heavy cream and cream cheese, stirring until cream cheese is completely melted

If using cornstarch, mix with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir into soup to thicken

Cook an additional 15 minutes until soup is heated through and thickened

Serve hot, topped with crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and green onions

Troubleshooting

If soup is too thin, use cornstarch slurry or mash more potatoes

If soup is too thick, thin with additional broth or cream

If cream cheese isn't melting properly, cut into smaller pieces

If potatoes aren't cooking evenly, cut into smaller, uniform pieces

If soup lacks flavor, adjust seasonings and add more salt and pepper

Recipe Variations

Loaded Baked Potato: Add extra cheese, bacon, and sour cream Roasted Garlic: Add a whole head of roasted garlic Cheese Lovers: Use multiple types of cheese for complex flavor Vegetable Garden: Add various vegetables like carrots, celery, and corn Southwest Style: Add corn, green chilies, and top with tortilla strips

Serving Suggestions

Serve with warm crusty bread or dinner rolls Pair with a crisp green salad Garnish with extra bacon, cheese, and green onions Add oyster crackers or croutons for crunch Serve alongside a grilled cheese sandwich for ultimate comfort food

Nutrition Facts

420

Calories

12g

Protein

45g

Carbs

24g

Fat

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not cutting potatoes in uniform sizes, leading to uneven cooking Adding dairy ingredients too early in the cooking process Overcooking the potatoes until they become mushy Not seasoning adequately throughout the cooking process Opening the crockpot lid too frequently, which releases essential heat

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the soup won't be as rich and creamy. Half-and-half is a good middle ground.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

It's preferred but not required. If leaving skins on, scrub potatoes well.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, use vegetable broth and omit bacon. Add extra seasonings for flavor.

Why did my potatoes turn brown?

This can happen if potatoes are exposed to air too long before cooking. Keep them submerged in water if prepping ahead.

Can I use frozen diced potatoes?

Yes, but texture may be slightly different. Add them frozen and adjust cooking time.

How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

Add dairy ingredients during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, if your crockpot is large enough. Cooking time remains the same.

What type of potatoes work best?

Russet potatoes are ideal for their starchy content, but Yukon Gold also work well.

Can I make this ahead for a party?

Yes, make up to 2 days ahead and reheat slowly. Add fresh garnishes when serving.

How do I store leftover garnishes?

Store bacon, cheese, and green onions separately in airtight containers.

Reviews

Sophia R.

Mar 1, 2026

Perfect comfort food! The crockpot made it so easy and delicious.

Marcus T.

Mar 2, 2026

Great recipe, though I added more garlic for extra flavor.

Elena P.

Mar 3, 2026

My family's new favorite soup! So creamy and satisfying.

Xavier W.

Mar 10, 2026

Love how hands-off this recipe is. Perfect for busy days.

Isabella M.