Creamy & Comforting Weight Watchers Potato Soup: Your Go-To Healthy Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to chase away the chill on a cold day. This delicious Weight Watchers potato soup recipe offers the ultimate comfort without compromising your health goals. It’s a remarkably filling and healthy choice, perfect for a satisfying lunch or a wholesome family dinner.
Crafting homemade Weight Watchers potato soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience the whole family will adore. This versatile recipe can easily be doubled or even tripled to feed a crowd, and I can confidently say it will earn rave reviews from everyone, even the pickiest eaters!
I speak from personal experience! My daughter, who was notoriously averse to soup, discovered a newfound love for potato soup after trying it at a restaurant at age 14. Prior to that, soup had simply never been on her menu. Her sudden enjoyment was a revelation, and it immediately inspired me to create my own healthy version that she – and our family – would cherish.
Typically, I strive to keep my soup recipes as low in Weight Watchers points as possible. In an ideal world, potatoes would be a “free” vegetable on the plan, making this soup incredibly light, much like some of my other low-point creations. However, even with potatoes, this loaded baked potato soup is absolutely worth its 6 Freestyle points per serving. Trust me, it’s incredibly satisfying and will keep you full for hours!
Some culinary delights are simply worth allocating a few extra points for, and this potato soup certainly falls into that category. When my daughter gave it two enthusiastic thumbs up, I knew I had a winner on my hands!
Why You’ll Love This Healthy Weight Watchers Potato Soup
This recipe isn’t just another potato soup; it’s a carefully crafted, wholesome meal designed to fit seamlessly into your Weight Watchers journey. Here’s why it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen:
- Health-Conscious Comfort: This isn’t just any potato soup; it’s a healthy potato soup. Depending on your current Weight Watchers plan, each generous serving comes in at a manageable 6 WW points. You can find all the detailed nutritional information in the recipe card below, making it easy to track your intake.
- Effortless One-Pot Meal: Simplify your cooking and cleanup! This cheesy potato soup recipe is a true one-pot wonder when made in the slow cooker. Most of the prep can even be done ahead of time, ensuring that mealtime is stress-free and cleanup is a breeze.
- Universally Delicious: Prepare for rave reviews! This Weight Watchers potato soup is genuinely delicious, appealing to all palates. Even those who aren’t actively tracking points will find themselves reaching for seconds, making it a perfect meal for the entire family. Its rich, creamy texture and hearty flavors make it feel indulgent without the guilt.
Understanding Weight Watchers Points & This Recipe
As a seasoned Weight Watchers participant, my general philosophy is to find the plan that truly resonates with you and allows for sustainable, enjoyable eating. While this recipe is designed with modern WW plans in mind, it’s also highly adaptable.
I know many of my loyal readers appreciate point information for various Weight Watchers programs. That’s why, in the recipe card, I strive to include point totals for several popular older plans, such as the PP plan, the Blue plan, the Green plan, and the Purple plan. This ensures that no matter which program you’re following, you have the guidance you need.
For the most precise and up-to-date point calculations for this Weight Watchers potato soup, I always recommend utilizing the official WW app. It’s the easiest and most reliable way to ensure accuracy with the latest program updates.
Below, I’ll guide you through making this incredibly delicious and creamy low-point potato soup using the slow cooker method. Remember, this satisfying soup is truly worth its 6 Freestyle points, especially for its comforting and filling qualities. If you’re looking to reduce points even further, be sure to explore the variations and substitution ideas I’ve provided further down.
Essential Ingredients for Your WW Potato Soup
Many of the ingredients required for this hearty soup are likely staples you already have in your pantry or refrigerator, making it an incredibly convenient meal to prepare. Here’s what you’ll need for this flavorful Weight Watchers potato soup:
- 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced small (approximately 4.5 cups for generous servings)
- 3 cups chicken broth (low-sodium is a great option for health-conscious cooking)
- 1 garlic clove, finely diced (fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor!)
- 2 Tbsp light butter (helps create a smooth roux while keeping points lower)
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening the soup to a perfect creamy consistency)
- 1.5 cups 2% milk (contributes to the creaminess without excess fat)
- 3 Tbsp light cream cheese (adds a rich, tangy depth of flavor and velvety texture)
- 3 Tbsp light sour cream (enhances creaminess and tanginess, classic for loaded potato soup)
- 6 slices low-point bacon (I recommend center-cut bacon; typically, 4 SmartPoints for 6 slices cooked and crumbled, adding that essential smoky, savory element)
- Diced green onion & shredded cheese for topping (optional, but highly recommended for the classic “loaded” experience!)
How to Make Weight Watchers Potato Soup (Slow Cooker Method)
Follow these simple steps to create a wonderfully creamy and comforting Weight Watchers potato soup in your slow cooker. This method is perfect for busy days, allowing flavors to meld beautifully with minimal hands-on time.
- Prepare the Bacon: Cook and drain your bacon until crispy. Once cooled, crumble it and set aside. This will be a delicious topping for your finished soup.
- Dice the Potatoes: Peel your russet potatoes and cut them into small, uniform pieces. Aim for at least 1-inch cubes or smaller to ensure even cooking and a lovely texture.
- Start the Slow Cooker: Set your slow cooker to the high heat setting. Add the chicken broth, diced potatoes, and minced garlic. Cover and cook for approximately 2.5 hours, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Prepare the Cream Base: While the potatoes are cooking, prepare your creamy base. In a small pan on the stovetop, melt the light butter over medium-low heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute until lightly golden. Slowly whisk in the 2% milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the light cream cheese and light sour cream. Continue stirring until you have a smooth, thick, and creamy consistency.
- Combine and Thicken: Carefully pour the prepared cream mixture into your slow cooker with the cooked potatoes and broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Achieve Creamy Texture: For that signature creamy potato soup texture, remove about 2 cups of the cooked potatoes from the slow cooker. Blend these potatoes in a blender until smooth (you might need to add a splash of broth if it’s too thick). Return the creamed potatoes back to your soup in the slow cooker and stir well. Add in the crumbled bacon, reserving some for garnish if desired.
- Final Simmer: Continue to cook the soup on high for at least one more hour. This final simmer allows all the flavors to deepen and ensures the soup reaches its perfect creamy consistency. The potato pieces still in the soup should be completely cooked through and tender.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Weight Watchers potato soup warm. Garnish with additional crumbled bacon, diced green onions, or a sprinkle of shredded low-fat cheese for an extra touch of flavor and presentation. This recipe makes 8 generous 1-cup servings, coming in at 6 SmartPoints on Blue & Green plans, and 4 SmartPoints on the Purple plan (5 points plus on older WW programs).
- Store Leftovers: Any leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage.
Customizing Your WW Potato Soup: Creative Variations & Smart Substitutions
One of the best aspects of this Weight Watchers potato soup is its versatility. Feel free to get creative and adapt the recipe to your personal preferences or what you have on hand. These variations can help you adjust flavors, textures, and even points:
- Boost Your Veggies and Reduce Points: If you’re aiming to lower the point count or simply increase your vegetable intake, consider substituting a portion of the russet potatoes with other firm vegetables. This not only adds nutrients but can significantly reduce the overall point value. Excellent choices include:
- Cauliflower: A fantastic low-carb option, cauliflower blends seamlessly into potato soup, adding creaminess and bulk without many points.
- Carrots: Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color. Make sure to dice them small so they cook evenly with the potatoes.
- Broccoli: Offers a slightly different flavor profile and a boost of green goodness.
- Turnips: A root vegetable with a similar texture to potatoes but often lower in points.
- Hash Browns for Time-Saving: Short on time for peeling and dicing? You can absolutely make Weight Watchers potato soup using store-bought hash browns or home fries. Just be sure to check the nutritional information and scan the product into your Weight Watchers app to ensure it aligns with your plan. Opt for plain, unsweetened varieties. This can be a fantastic shortcut without sacrificing flavor. You can also review Weight Watchers’ official guidance on points in potatoes here for more insights.
- Instant Pot Potato Soup Conversion: This recipe is easily adaptable for your Instant Pot! After browning bacon (if using) in the Instant Pot, add your diced potatoes, broth, and garlic. Pressure cook on high for 5-7 minutes, followed by a quick release. Once cooked, stir in your cream mixture (prepared separately or carefully added to the warm pot), blend a portion of the potatoes for thickness as instructed, and then return the blended potatoes and crumbled bacon. Cook on Sauté (low) for a few minutes until heated through and creamy, stirring constantly.
- Adjust Your Seasonings: While this recipe provides a classic potato soup seasoning base, don’t hesitate to adjust it to suit your palate. Experiment with different spices to discover your favorite flavor combination!
- Italian Seasoning: Adds an aromatic, herbaceous note.
- Seasoned Salt: Can deepen the savory profile.
- Garlic Salt: For an extra garlic kick.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavor, especially if you’re reducing the bacon.
- Dill or Chives: Fresh herbs brighten the flavor.
- A Dash of Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy a little heat.
- Stovetop Method: If you prefer cooking on the stovetop, combine broth, potatoes, and garlic in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Then, proceed with making the cream base and combining steps as outlined in the main instructions. Be mindful of heat to prevent scorching.
Expert Tips & Tricks for Making the Best Weight Watchers Potato Soup
Achieving a perfectly creamy and flavorful potato soup that also fits your Weight Watchers plan is easier with these helpful tips:
- Serving Size Matters: This recipe is designed to yield eight 1-cup servings, each with 6 SmartPoints on Blue & Green plans, and 4 SmartPoints on the Purple plan (or 5 points plus on older WW programs). Be mindful of your portion sizes to stay within your daily points target.
- Freezing for Future Meals: This Weight Watchers potato soup freezes exceptionally well! Once cooled, divide the soup into individual portions in freezer-safe containers. This makes for quick and convenient grab-and-go meals on busy days.
- Reheating with Care: When reheating frozen or refrigerated soup, do so gently. Cream and cheese-based soups can easily burn or separate if heated too quickly or at too high a temperature. Stir frequently, especially when reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave, to ensure even heating and maintain a smooth consistency.
- Stovetop Attention: If you are making this soup on the stovetop, be sure to keep an eye on the soup as it cooks, especially after adding the dairy. You can also burn the cheese and creams on high heat on a stovetop. Maintain medium-low heat and stir often.
- Prevent Overcooked Potatoes: Once you’ve added the blended, creamed potatoes back into the soup, continue cooking on low heat only long enough to heat everything through and allow flavors to meld, as indicated in the recipe. Overcooking at this stage can result in the remaining potato chunks becoming mushy rather than tender, altering the soup’s desired texture.
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this soup because of their high starch content, which contributes to a naturally creamy texture when mashed or blended.
- Garnish for Flavor and Presentation: Don’t underestimate the power of garnishes! Freshly chopped chives, a sprinkle of extra crumbled bacon, a dollop of light sour cream, or a touch of shredded low-fat cheddar can elevate the soup’s taste and visual appeal, making it feel even more like a “loaded” potato soup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make this Weight Watchers potato soup vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. For the “bacon” flavor, you can use vegetarian bacon bits or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to mimic that smoky depth.
How can I make the soup thicker or thinner?
If your soup is too thick, gradually stir in a little extra chicken or vegetable broth until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can create a slurry with a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with an equal amount of cold water, then whisk it into the simmering soup and cook for a few more minutes until thickened.
What are the best serving suggestions for this potato soup?
This potato soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own! However, it pairs wonderfully with a light side salad, a whole-wheat roll for dipping, or a grilled cheese sandwich made with low-fat cheese for a classic comfort meal pairing. Don’t forget those optional garnishes like green onions and a touch of cheese!
How long can I store this soup in the refrigerator?
When stored in an airtight container, this Weight Watchers potato soup will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Always ensure it’s cooled completely before storing.
Can I use milk alternatives?
Yes, you can. Unsweetened almond milk or soy milk can be used as a substitute for 2% milk to reduce points or for dietary preferences. Be aware that the flavor and creaminess might vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
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Weight Watchers Baked Potato Soup (Slow Cooker Method)
Drizzle
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45 minutes
Ingredients
- 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced small (about 4.5 cups)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 garlic clove, diced
- 2 Tbsp light butter
- 2 Tbsp flour
- 1.5 cups 2% milk
- 3 Tbsp light cream cheese
- 3 Tbsp light sour cream
- 6 slices low point bacon, I use center cut, 4SP for 6 slices cooked and crumbled
- Diced green onion & shredded cheese for topping, optional
Instructions
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Cook and drain your bacon and set aside.
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Peel and cut your potatoes into small pieces (at least 1 inch cubes or smaller).
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Set crock pot to high, add your broth, potatoes and garlic, cook for 2.5 hours, or until potatoes are tender.
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In a small pan on stovetop, melt your butter over med-low heat, whisk in your flour then slowly whisk in your milk, stirring often. Add cream cheese and sour cream and stir often till you have a nice thick cream.
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Take about 2 cups of your cooked potatoes out of the crock pot and blend in a blender until smooth. Add creamed potatoes back to your soup and stir well, then stir in your crumbled bacon.
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Cook on high for at least one more hour, allowing flavors to meld and the soup to thicken further. Potato pieces still in soup should be cooked right through.
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Serve warm; makes 8- 1 cup servings at 6 SP blue & green, 4SP purple (5 points plus- old WW program). Garnish with green onions and optional shredded cheese.
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Nutritional info per serving: Calories 189, Fat 4.7g, Sat fat 2.4g, Carbs 27g, Fiber 1.8g, Sugars 3.9g, Protein 8.3g.
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Store leftover soup in the fridge or freezer.
Additional Info
Soup
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