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Dinner · Part 3 of 3: Tips & recipe card

Creamy Crockpot Pimento Cheese Potato Soup Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

A bowl of creamy pimento cheese potato soup with visible potato cubes and red pimento bits.
Prep
Cook
Total
Serves
6
Includes 5 min resting

Tips for success

For a more intense smoky flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked salt or a dash of liquid smoke, though the smoked paprika already provides a solid foundation.

If you want to add a bit of texture, you can lightly mash a few of the cooked potatoes against the side of the slow cooker before serving, which will thicken the soup even further without changing the flavor profile.

If you find that the soup is too rich, you can balance it by stirring in a small amount of freshly chopped green onions or chives right before serving. This adds a pop of freshness and color that cuts through the creaminess of the cheddar and cream cheese. Serve this soup with crusty bread or warm crackers to complete the experience and soak up the delicious, cheesy broth.

Variations

  • Spicy Pimento Soup: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the broth mixture before cooking to introduce a welcome kick of heat that complements the sharp cheddar.
  • Bacon and Pimento Soup: Stir in half a cup of pre-cooked, crumbled bacon right before serving. The saltiness and crunch of the bacon add a wonderful layer of texture and flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer
Freezing is not recommended as the cream cheese and potato base may separate and change texture upon thawing.
Reheat
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Allow the soup to cool to room temperature for no more than two hours before transferring it into airtight containers. Proper storage in the refrigerator will keep the soup fresh for up to three days.

When storing, ensure the lid is sealed tightly to prevent the soup from absorbing other odors from the refrigerator. Always stir the soup well after reheating to restore its creamy texture, as the cheese may separate slightly during the chilling process.

This soup is an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors often deepen after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. You can prepare the soup entirely, let it cool, and store it for a quick meal later in the week.

Simply reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly to ensure the cheese emulsion remains smooth and consistent. It is a convenient option for busy schedules and meal planning.

Serving ideas

Serve this soup hot in shallow bowls to showcase the beautiful colors of the pimentos and the creamy texture of the potato base. It works perfectly as a stand-alone lunch or a comforting dinner. The richness of the soup makes it very satisfying, so pairing it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread is often all that is needed to round out the meal.

For a professional touch, garnish the bowls with a small pinch of extra smoked paprika or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This adds a visual contrast that highlights the vibrant orange hue of the cheddar and red pimentos.

Ensure the soup is served while steaming hot, as the texture is at its peak when the cheese is fully melted and the broth is at a smooth, consistent temperature.

Frequently asked questions

Can this soup be made on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, this soup can be prepared on the stovetop. Simply simmer all the ingredients in a large pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender. It will take significantly less time than the slow cooker method, usually around 30 to 40 minutes, but you must watch it closely to prevent the bottom from scorching.
Why did the cheese separate in the soup?
Cheese separation often occurs if the soup is cooked at too high a temperature or if it is boiled vigorously. To prevent this, ensure your slow cooker is set to the low setting, which provides the gentle heat necessary to melt the cheese without breaking the emulsion. If separation occurs, a quick whisk or immersion blender can often help restore the creamy texture.
Can other types of cheese be used?
While sharp cheddar is traditional for the flavor profile, you can experiment with other meltable cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère. Keep in mind that using milder cheeses may result in a less flavorful soup, so you might need to adjust the seasonings accordingly. Always use freshly shredded cheese if possible, as pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can affect how smoothly the soup melts.
Recipe card

Creamy Crockpot Pimento Cheese Potato Soup

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 6
A bowl of creamy pimento cheese potato soup with visible potato cubes and red pimento bits.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs gold potatoes, diced into small cubes
  • 4 oz diced red pimentos, drained
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

Instructions

  1. Place the diced gold potatoes into the slow cooker insert. Scatter the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and diced red pimentos evenly over the top of the potatoes.
  2. Sprinkle the smoked paprika and garlic powder over the ingredients in the slow cooker. In a separate pitcher, whisk together the chicken broth and softened cream cheese until smooth, then pour the mixture over the contents of the slow cooker.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours until the potatoes are tender. Stir well before serving in shallow bowls.
Contains: milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories
380
Protein
12.5 g
Carbohydrates
28 g
Fat
24.5 g
Fiber
3 g
Sugar
4 g
Sodium
850 mg
Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.
Recipe by Clara Weller (pen name) · Allquickyrecipes · https://recipes.allquickyrecipes.com/creamy-crockpot-pimento-cheese-potato-soup-2/part-3