Creamy Slow Cooker Potato Soup

Ingredients and Weight:

• Russet potatoes (3 pounds)
• Onion (1 medium, chopped)
• Celery (1 stalk, chopped)
• Chicken broth (4 cups)
• Milk (2 cups)
• Heavy cream (1 cup)
• Butter (1/2 cup)
• All-purpose flour (1/4 cup)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

4 hours on low or 2 hours on high

Difficulty Level:

2/5 (Simple to Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Peel and cube the potatoes.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the potatoes to the skillet and stir to coat.
5. Stir in the chicken broth, milk, and salt and pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker.
8. Cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours.
9. Using an immersion blender or regular blender, puree the soup until smooth.
10. Stir in the heavy cream.
11. Serve hot, garnished with chives or parsley (optional).

Nutritional Information:

(Per serving, about 1 cup)

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 10g

Dish Characteristics:

• Creamy and velvety texture
• Rich and flavorful
• Comforting and satisfying

User Comments:

• "This soup is so delicious and easy to make. It's perfect for a cold winter day."
• "I love the smooth texture and the subtle flavors of the potatoes and vegetables."
• "I added some shredded cheese and bacon to mine, and it was heavenly!"
• "This recipe is a lifesaver when I don't have much time to cook."
• "My guests raved about this soup. It's definitely a keeper!"

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have an immersion blender, transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and puree until smooth.
• To make a vegan version, use vegetable broth, soy milk, and plant-based cream.
• For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before adding them to the slow cooker.
• To prevent the soup from curdling, gradually whisk in the heavy cream while the soup is still hot.
• Top the soup with your favorite toppings, such as cheese, bacon, sour cream, or chives.