Slow Cooker Potato Leek Soup Recipe
A comforting and creamy slow cooker potato leek soup made with tender leeks, Yukon gold potatoes, chicken broth, and finished with rich heavy cream, perfect for a cozy meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large leeks, sliced
- 3 Tbsp. salted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 lbs. Yukon gold potatoes, peeled if preferred
- 7 cups chicken broth
- 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
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the leeks: Slice the leeks, discarding the thick green ends. Add them to a large skillet with butter and minced garlic and cook over medium-high heat until the leeks are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine ingredients in slow cooker: Transfer the cooked leeks and garlic into the slow cooker. Add the peeled potatoes, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Add broth and start cooking: Pour in the chicken broth and close the lid. Cook on high for 5 hours or low for 8 hours until the potatoes are tender.
- Blend the soup: Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until mostly smooth but not over blended. If using a food processor or blender, work in small batches to blend.
- Add cream and finish: Stir in the heavy cream and blend slightly again to combine. Garnish with chopped fresh chives before serving. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Notes
- Leeks can be tough to clean; slice and rinse well to remove dirt between layers.
- You may peel the potatoes if you prefer a smoother texture, though leaving the skins adds nutrients and texture.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and use unsalted butter or olive oil.
- Avoid over blending to keep some soup texture for a more rustic feel.
- Garnish with fresh chives or a sprinkle of crispy bacon for extra flavor.
