Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with this irresistible Crock Pot Potato Soup for Two. Featuring tender, creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and gooey melted cheese in a rich, velvety broth, this recipe delivers a heartwarming meal without the hassle of excessive leftovers. Perfect for a cozy night in, it’s a simple yet satisfying dish that brings gourmet flavor to your table with minimal effort.
A Creamy, Hearty Slow Cooker Dinner for Two
There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of potato soup to warm the soul, but often, traditional recipes yield generous portions meant for a crowd. If you’re craving that comforting flavor but prefer a more manageable serving size, our Crock Pot Potato Soup for Two is your ideal culinary companion. This recipe captures all the rich, creamy, and cheesy goodness you adore, complete with perfectly cooked potato chunks, but in a perfectly proportioned serving for two people. Say goodbye to excessive leftovers and hello to a fresh, delicious meal every time!
What makes this recipe truly special is the convenience of your slow cooker. By utilizing the Crock Pot, we eliminate the need for constant stirring and monitoring on the stovetop. This “set it and forget it” approach frees up your time, allowing you to focus on other tasks while your delicious soup slowly simmers to perfection. It’s the ultimate hassle-free dinner solution for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. We are passionate about creating delicious, easy-to-follow recipes for smaller households. If you’re looking for more inspiration, feel free to explore our collection of “Recipes For Two.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Potato Soup
For a truly exceptional potato soup, Russet potatoes are generally considered the gold standard. Their high starch content breaks down beautifully during the slow cooking process, contributing to a naturally thick and creamy texture. They also absorb the rich flavors of the broth and seasonings wonderfully. While Yukon Gold potatoes can also work well, offering a slightly waxier texture that holds its shape a bit more, I typically steer clear of red potatoes for soup. In my experience, red potatoes tend to be too waxy and don’t contribute to the desired creamy consistency that makes potato soup so comforting. Plus, Russet potatoes are often a more budget-friendly option, which is always a bonus!
Absolutely! While this recipe is optimized for the slow cooker, you can certainly adapt it for an Instant Pot if you’re looking for a quicker cooking time. In fact, we have a dedicated Instant Pot Potato Soup recipe that has been incredibly popular for a while now. The Instant Pot uses pressure cooking to tenderize the potatoes in a fraction of the time, making it a fantastic alternative for those moments when you need a delicious meal on the table fast. You’ll achieve similar creamy, cheesy results with the convenience of a pressure cooker.
Yes, you can certainly prepare a variation of this potato soup on the stovetop. While I haven’t personally developed a specific stovetop version for this exact recipe (preferring the hands-off ease of the slow cooker for this particular one), the general principle would be to combine all the ingredients in a large pot or Dutch oven. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and continue to simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender. This method typically requires more active monitoring and stirring to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking, but it’s a viable option if you don’t have a slow cooker or Instant Pot available.
Using frozen potatoes requires a slightly different approach due to their pre-cooked and often firmer texture. If you’re looking to use frozen potatoes, I highly recommend checking out our dedicated Slow Cooker Potato Soup with Frozen Potatoes recipe. That recipe was specifically designed to yield the best results with frozen potatoes, ensuring they cook through properly and integrate well into the creamy soup base. For this “for two” version, you could likely adapt that recipe by cutting the ingredient quantities in half, keeping in mind the slight adjustments needed for frozen versus fresh potatoes.
The ideal thickness of potato soup is a matter of personal preference, ranging from a lighter, more soupy consistency to a rich, stew-like heartiness. If your soup seems a bit too thin for your liking, there are a couple of effective ways to thicken it. The most common method is to create a cornstarch slurry: whisk together about 3 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water until completely smooth. Gradually stir this slurry into your hot soup in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes or until the soup has visibly thickened to your desired consistency. Another quick and convenient option is to add a small amount of instant potato flakes. I always keep these on hand for thickening soups and stews. Add just a tablespoon or two at a time, stir well, and wait a few minutes before adding more. The flakes will absorb liquid and thicken the soup quickly without altering the flavor significantly.
Don’t worry, a soup that’s too thick is a super easy fix! Simply add a little more liquid until it reaches your desired consistency. You can use extra milk (whole milk, half-and-half, or even a splash of heavy cream for added richness), or a bit more low-sodium chicken broth. Stir it in thoroughly, a quarter cup at a time, until the soup is perfectly textured. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed after thinning.
This hearty Crock Pot Potato Soup for Two pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a light and refreshing contrast, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is always an excellent choice. To make it a truly comforting meal, serve it alongside some crusty bread perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of that creamy broth. Think Italian bread, classic French bread, homemade Garlic Bread, a rustic sourdough loaf, or our delicious Breadsticks. Any artisan bread will elevate the experience. For a more substantial pairing, consider a light sandwich or a platter of roasted seasonal vegetables.
This recipe is designed specifically for two servings to minimize or eliminate leftovers. However, if you find yourself with a small amount remaining (perhaps you had a light meal or are cooking for one), the soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if it has thickened too much. Freezing potato soup is generally not recommended. Potatoes tend to absorb a lot of liquid and can become grainy or mealy in texture once thawed and reheated. The starches in the potatoes can also separate from the liquid, resulting in an unappealing consistency. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days from the fridge.
Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Potato Soup
Crafting this delightful Crock Pot Potato Soup for Two requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients that build layers of rich flavor and ensure a perfectly creamy texture. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each component is important:
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: We opt for low-sodium broth to maintain control over the overall saltiness of the soup. Remember, ingredients like bacon and salted butter already contribute significant sodium. If you prefer a saltier profile, or if you use unsalted butter and unseasoned bacon, regular chicken broth can be used. For an even richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth.
- Russet Potatoes: As discussed in our FAQs, Russets are the star here. Their starchy nature makes them ideal for breaking down and creating that desired creamy consistency. If you’re considering other varieties, please refer to the FAQ section for guidance on what works best and what to avoid.
- Bacon: Crispy, crumbled bacon adds a savory depth and smoky flavor that truly elevates the soup. You’ll cook and crumble the bacon before adding it to the slow cooker, and I highly recommend cooking a little extra for a delicious garnish. For a quick alternative, store-bought real bacon pieces can be used.
- Salt and Black Pepper: These fundamental seasonings are crucial for bringing out the best in all the ingredients. We use kosher salt for its clean flavor.
- Onion Powder: Provides a concentrated onion flavor that disperses evenly throughout the soup.
- Garlic Powder: Complements the fresh garlic, adding another dimension of savory warmth. The combination of both fresh and powdered garlic ensures a robust garlic profile.
- Yellow Onion: Sautéed yellow onion forms the aromatic base of our roux, adding a sweet and pungent depth of flavor.
- Salted Butter: Used for sautéing the onion and creating the roux. If you prefer to manage salt levels more precisely, unsalted butter can be substituted, just be sure to adjust the added salt accordingly.
- Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced garlic contributes a vibrant, pungent flavor that is distinct from garlic powder. Pre-minced jarred garlic can be used for convenience.
- All-Purpose Flour: This is our thickening agent. When combined with butter, it forms a roux that gives the soup its luxurious, creamy body.
- Milk: Whole milk is our preferred choice for its rich creaminess, which is essential for a truly satisfying potato soup. For an even more indulgent experience, consider using half-and-half.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Provides a delightful tang and contributes to the soup’s comforting, gooey texture. You’ll add some directly to the soup for flavor and melt, and reserve extra for serving as a garnish.
- Green Onions: Sliced green onions are an optional but highly recommended garnish for serving, adding a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
How to Make Crock Pot Potato Soup for Two: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this rich and creamy potato soup in your Crock Pot is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a truly comforting meal:
Step 1: Combine Initial Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Begin by adding 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, 2 diced Russet potatoes, 2 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon, 1 teaspoon of dried parsley (if using), ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, ¼ teaspoon of onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder to a 4-quart Crock Pot. Give everything a good stir to combine all the flavors.
Step 2: Slow Cook Until Potatoes are Tender
Cover your Crock Pot with the lid and cook on high for 2-3 hours, or on low for approximately 4-6 hours. The goal is for the potatoes to become exceptionally tender and easily pierced with a fork. For the best texture and to ensure the potatoes don’t get mushy but rather creamy, I generally recommend cooking on the low setting. This allows for a more gentle and even cooking process.
Step 3: Prepare the Flavorful Roux Base
While the potatoes are cooking, you’ll prepare the creamy base that will thicken and enrich your soup. In a separate sauté pan, melt 1 tablespoon of salted butter over medium heat. Add ⅛ cup of chopped yellow onion and stir constantly for about 4 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and softened. This caramelization adds a subtle sweetness to the base.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Flour for Roux
Once the onions are translucent, add 2 minced garlic cloves to the pan. Stir for about 1 minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Next, sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Stir continuously for 2 minutes, cooking out the raw flour taste and creating a pale golden roux. This roux is essential for thickening the soup and providing a smooth, velvety texture.
Step 5: Incorporate Milk and Create Creamy Base
Slowly pour 1 cup of milk (preferably whole milk for maximum creaminess) into the pan with the flour mixture. Whisk vigorously as you pour to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth consistency. Continue to stir and cook for about 1 minute, or until the mixture has thickened into a smooth, creamy sauce. This will be the luxurious base of your potato soup.
Step 6: Combine Creamy Base with Soup and Cheese
Carefully transfer the thickened milk mixture from the sauté pan into your Crock Pot, where the potatoes have been simmering. Add ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the slow cooker as well. Stir everything together thoroughly until the cheese has completely melted into the soup, creating a rich, cheesy, and beautifully thick consistency.
Step 7: Mash Potatoes to Your Liking
Now it’s time to customize the texture of your soup! Using a potato masher, gently mash a portion of the potatoes directly in the Crock Pot. We usually mash about one-fourth of the potatoes to create a balance between chunky and creamy, which also helps to naturally thicken the soup even further. You can mash more or less depending on your preference for a smoother or chunkier soup.
Step 8: Final Simmer and Seasoning
Cover the Crock Pot once more and let the soup cook for an additional 20 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and for the soup to reach its perfect consistency. Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Sometimes a little extra seasoning can make all the difference!
Step 9: Serve and Garnish
Ladle your hot, creamy potato soup into bowls. For an irresistible finish, top each serving generously with fresh sliced green onions, a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar cheese, and a handful of crispy, crumbled bacon pieces. These garnishes not only add fantastic flavor and texture but also make for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy your homemade, perfectly portioned Crock Pot Potato Soup for Two!
More Delicious & Easy Recipes For Two
If you loved this perfectly portioned Crock Pot Potato Soup, you’re in luck! We specialize in creating comforting and convenient meals designed for smaller households, ensuring you get all the flavor without an overwhelming amount of leftovers. Explore more of our popular recipes for two:
- Crock Pot Beef Stroganoff For Two: A classic comfort dish, perfectly scaled for two.
- Crock Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes For Two: A hearty, wholesome meal all in one pot.
- Chicken and Dumplings For Two: Southern comfort at its finest, made just for two.
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- Crock Pot Chicken & Gravy For Two: Simple, satisfying, and full of homestyle flavor.
- Polish Casserole For Two: A unique and flavorful twist on traditional comfort food.
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- Lasagna For Two: Enjoy layers of deliciousness without an entire pan.
- Stuffed Peppers For Two: A savory and satisfying meal, perfectly portioned.
- White Chicken Enchiladas For Two: Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.
- Slow Cooker Potato Soup (with frozen potatoes): A specialized recipe for using frozen potatoes.
Crock Pot Potato Soup for Two
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Ingredients
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 Russet potatoes, diced (about 3 cups diced)
- 2 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (can use store bought, plus more for serving)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅛ cup chopped yellow onion
- 1 Tablespoon salted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (I prefer whole milk for creaminess)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for serving)
- Sliced green onions, shredded cheddar cheese and cooked bacon pieces (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- To a 4-quart Crock Pot, add 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth, 2 diced Russet potatoes, 2 slices cooked and crumbled bacon, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon garlic powder. Stir all ingredients to combine thoroughly.
- Cover the Crock Pot and cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for about 6 hours, or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork. Cooking on low is recommended for the most tender results.
- In a sauté pan, melt 1 Tablespoon salted butter. Add ⅛ cup chopped yellow onion. Stir and cook until the onions are translucent, which should take about 4 minutes.
- Add 2 minced garlic cloves to the pan. Stir and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds to one minute.
- Add 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour to the pan. Stir and cook for about 2 minutes to create a roux, cooking out the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in 1 cup milk, whisking constantly to ensure the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture has thickened into a creamy sauce.
- Transfer the milk mixture and ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese to the Crock Pot. Stir until the cheese has completely melted into the soup, making it wonderfully creamy and cheesy.
- Use a potato masher to mash the potatoes to your desired consistency. Mashing about ¼ of the potatoes will help thicken the soup while leaving some delightful chunks.
- Cover and cook for an additional 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the soup to reach its final consistency. Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, topped with sliced green onions, additional shredded cheddar cheese, and cooked bacon pieces for a perfect garnish.
Notes
- For ingredient substitutions, additional cooking tips, or answers to common questions, please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions and ingredient list above.
- The bacon cooked within the soup adds a deep, smoky flavor as it simmers. If you prefer, you can omit adding bacon initially and save all of it for a topping, but this will slightly alter the overall flavor profile of the soup itself.
Nutrition Information (Estimate Per Serving)
Calories: 563kcal | Carbohydrates: 57g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 28g | Sodium: 996mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 8g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a registered dietician or nutritionist. All nutritional information provided is an estimate based on common ingredient databases and cooking practices. If precise calorie counts and other nutritional values are crucial for your dietary needs, we strongly recommend calculating the ingredients through your preferred online nutritional calculator. Actual nutritional values can vary considerably depending on specific brands used, preparation methods, and ingredient substitutions.
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