Late July Gathering Velvety Loaded Potato Soup using Cubed Carola Potatoes
And then there is that time every summer when you know that the season is about to change. Around here, that moment usually arrives the last weekend in July.
And then there is that time every summer when you know that the season is about to change. Around here, that moment usually arrives the last weekend in July. The afternoons are still hot but when the sun sinks behind the trees the air cools, lawn chairs fill the back yard and conversations seem to last just a little longer.
Those evenings have turned into a family tradition. The patio lanterns are lit, the kids play until they can’t run anymore, and everyone sits around the picnic table long after they should have finished dinner. We always grill burgers or chicken but over the years I’ve noticed something interesting. As soon as the temperature drops people are looking for something warm to put in their mouths. And that’s how this Velvety Loaded Potato Soup became a staple at our summer gatherings.
I went into the kitchen a couple of years ago after one of those backyard cookouts looking for a way to stretch dinner without a trip to the grocery store. On the counter sat a bag of fresh Carola potatoes from the local farmers market. I was going to roast them tomorrow, but they looked too good to pass up.
Carola potatoes are naturally creamy and make the perfect homemade soup. They soften beautifully, but maintain enough shape to make every spoonful a hearty bite.
I peeled them, cut them into little squares, and started a simple soup of chicken broth, cheddar cheese, cream, bacon, and fresh green onions.
The recipe did not look complicated at all. It just felt comforting.” The soup simmered slowly and the kitchen filled with the rich smell of buttery potatoes, melted cheese and smoky bacon. As soon as I finished calling everyone in, people were already drifting toward the stove to see what smelled so good. One bowl became two.
The pot emptied out much quicker than I expected. Now no one will let me have a late July gathering without this soup. But even when it’s warm outside, someone always asks if “the potato soup” is on the menu.
I think that’s because comfort food isn’t really about the time of year. it’s about the people sitting at the table. If you are searching for the best loaded potato soup recipe, easy homemade potato soup, creamy comfort food recipes, family dinner ideas, budget friendly soup recipes, easy weeknight dinners or meal prep soup recipes, this recipe is for you.
Why You Will Love This
- Just five simple ingredients.
- Takes very little prep work.
- Nearly all cooking is done in the slow cooker.
- Rich and creamy texture, no complicated steps.
- Perfect for meal prepping and leftovers.
What You Need
- 2 pounds (cubed) Potatoes Carola
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Toppings (optional)
- Crispy bacon bits
- Spring onions
- Sour cream
- Black pepper
- Extra cheese, cheddar
These toppings add more flavor, but the soup is good without them.
Instructions
Step One
Wash and peel the Carola potatoes. Cut them into equal cubes so they will cook at the same rate.
Step 2.
Add the potatoes and diced onion to the slow cooker.
Step 3
Add broth to vegetables. Gently stir everything.
Step :4
Cover and cook on Low for 7 to 8 hours or on High for 4 to 5 hours, until potatoes are very tender.
Step 5:
Mash some of the potatoes with a potato masher. Leave some lumps, for texture.
Step 6.
Add softened creamcheese. Stir until the butter melts.
Step 7.
Toss in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir again until soup is smooth and creamy and velvety.
Step 8.
Add your favorite toppings on top.
Why Carola Potatoes Are So Good Carola potatoes
have a creamy texture and are great for soup. They break down beautifully but still have enough structure to give you a thick and satisfying consistency. They also soak up the savory broth as they cook, so each bite is more flavorful.
Tips for Making the Best Potato Soup
- Choose potatoes that are about the same size before you cut them. The cubes cook evenly, too.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar whenever possible. Fresh cheese melts far better than the pre-shredded varieties.
- Let the cream cheese come to room temperature before adding. It blends into the soup much more quickly.
- Mash only half the potatoes. This is the perfect balance of creamy and chunky.
- Taste the soup for seasoning before serving. Add salt and pepper if necessary.
Delicious Methods of Serving
This comforting soup goes well with:
- Crusty bread from artisan
- Garlic bread toast
- Cheese sandwiches grilled.
- garden salad fresh
- Homemade biscuits
- Serve in smaller bowls with grilled chicken or
- burgers at summertime get-togethers.
How to Store
- Let the soup cool before refrigerating.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator, then reheat.
- Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until just hot. If the soup becomes too thick, add a bit of chicken broth.
Variations on the Recipe
- Five ingredients is all it takes to make this recipe shine, but it’s easy to personalize.
- Add cooked bacon for a smoky taste.
- Add some shredded rotisserie chicken for a little extra protein.
- Add steamed broccoli during the last 20 minutes.
- Use a smoked cheddar for a more cheesy flavor.
- If you like a little heat, top with jalapeños.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)
Can I use another kind of potato?
- Yukon Gold potatoes are good. Yes. You can also make a creamy soup with russet potatoes, but Carola potatoes will give you one of the smoothest textures.
- Yes, this is a vegetarian recipe.
Roger that. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
- Should I peel the potatoes?
Soup is smoothest if you peel it. After washing them thoroughly, leave the skins on for a rustic texture. - Is it possible to cook it overnight?
Yes. Put it on Low before you go to bed and - you’ll have soup waiting for you in the morning.
SUMMARY
This 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Late July Gathering Velvety Loaded Potato Soup is evidence that simple ingredients make the most satisfying meals. Cubed Carola potatoes, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, onion and savory broth add up to a rich, creamy soup that everyone loves.
This easy slow cooker recipe is foolproof, whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, a neighborhood get-together or your weekly meal prep. One bowl of this comforting, filling, classic homemade flavor that everyone keeps coming back for.
