Slow Cooker Potato Leek Soup Recipe
This Slow Cooker Potato Leek Soup is a comforting and creamy classic that combines the delicate flavor of leeks with tender Yukon gold potatoes. Slow-cooked to perfection and finished with rich heavy cream, this soup is easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours (high) or 8 hours (low)
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes (high) or 8 hours 15 minutes (low)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 large leeks, sliced (white and light green parts only)
- 3 lbs. Yukon gold potatoes, peeled if preferred
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy
- 3 Tbsp. salted butter
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
Herbs & Spices
- 2 bay leaves
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme, or 1 tsp. dried leaf thyme (not ground)
- 1 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
Liquids
- 7 cups chicken broth
Garnish
- Fresh chives, chopped
Instructions
- Sauté the leeks and garlic: Slice the leeks, discarding the thick dark green ends. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced leeks and minced garlic, cooking until the leeks are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Prepare the slow cooker: Transfer the sautéed leeks and garlic to the slow cooker. Add the peeled (optional) Yukon gold potatoes, bay leaves, thyme (fresh or dried), salt, and black pepper.
- Add broth and cook: Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring all ingredients are submerged. Cover with the slow cooker lid and cook on high for 5 hours or on low for 8 hours, until the potatoes are very tender.
- Blend the soup: Remove the fresh thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth but still slightly textured. If using a traditional blender or food processor, blend in small batches to avoid overflow.
- Finish with cream and garnish: Stir in the heavy cream and blend gently once more to combine. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh chopped chives and crusty bread on the side.
Notes
- You can peel the potatoes for a smoother texture, but leaving the skins on adds nutrients and a rustic feel.
- If you prefer a thinner soup, add additional chicken broth or water to reach desired consistency.
- Vegetarian option: substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and use vegan butter or olive oil.
- Do not over-blend the soup to maintain a pleasant texture.
- This soup freezes well; reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth as needed.
Keywords: potato leek soup, slow cooker soup, creamy potato soup, comfort food, easy soup recipe
