Creating the perfect bowl of Crockpot Potato Soup is simple. Just follow these easy steps:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Peel and dice the potatoes into small chunks. Chop the onion and slice the carrots. Mince the garlic.

2. Add Ingredients to Crockpot: In your crockpot, combine the diced potatoes, chopped onion, sliced carrots, and minced garlic.

3. Pour in the Broth: Add the vegetable or chicken broth to the crockpot, ensuring all the vegetables are covered.

4. Season: Sprinkle in the dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

5. Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.

6. Mash the Potatoes: Once cooking is complete, use a potato masher to mash a portion of the potatoes for a creamy texture while leaving some chunks for heartiness.

7. Stir in Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the soup to continue to warm for an additional 15 to 20 minutes on low.

8. Add Cheese: If using, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.

9. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper if necessary.

10. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions or chives and bacon bits, if desired.

With these straightforward instructions, this incredible soup is ready to be enjoyed!