There’s something about a hearty, comforting bowl of potato soup that just hits the spot. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold day-filling, satisfying, and packed with flavors that everyone loves. And when you make it in the slow cooker, well, you’re in for a treat. The slow cooker works its magic, creating a rich and creamy texture without the fuss of constant monitoring. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner for your family, a crowd-pleasing appetizer for a party, or a make-ahead meal for the week, this Loaded Potato Soup Slow Cooker Recipe is the one you need.
In this recipe, you’re going to be able to skip the stress and enjoy the results of a wonderful meal. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let the magic happen. It’s a simple, no-fuss process that yields mouthwatering results. From crispy bacon bits to gooey melted cheese, it’s a bowl of comfort that’s impossible to resist. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious soup and some tips to elevate it even further.
Loaded Potato Soup Slow Cooker Recipe
The beauty of this slow cooker recipe lies in its simplicity and flavor. By allowing the slow cooker to do all the work, the potatoes break down into a creamy, velvety base, while all the toppings you love-bacon, cheese, sour cream-come together perfectly. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a family favorite.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to create this irresistible potato soup:
- Russet Potatoes (about 5-6 medium-sized potatoes) – Russets are perfect for soups because they break down into that creamy consistency we crave.
- Yellow Onion (1 medium) – Adds depth and sweetness to the flavor profile.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Garlic brings in savory goodness and enhances the flavor of everything.
- Chicken Broth (4 cups) – The base of your soup, giving it that rich, savory flavor.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup) – For that creamy texture that makes the soup feel indulgent.
- Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – Sharp cheddar is a must for that signature loaded potato flavor.
- Bacon (6 slices, cooked and crumbled) – Crispy bacon bits add a salty, smoky crunch.
- Sour Cream (1/2 cup) – For a creamy, tangy finish.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste) – To balance and enhance the flavors.
- Chives or Green Onions (for garnish) – A fresh, oniony zing to top it all off.
Cooking Instructions
Making this Loaded Potato Soup in the slow cooker is as easy as it gets. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
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Prep Your Potatoes
- Peel and dice your russet potatoes into bite-sized chunks. Don’t worry about them being perfectly uniform, since they’ll cook down and blend into the soup’s creamy base.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté your chopped onion and minced garlic in a little bit of butter or olive oil until they’re soft and fragrant. This step helps bring out their flavors, which will then infuse the soup.
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Add Everything To The Slow Cooker
- Transfer the potatoes, sautéed onion and garlic, and chicken broth into the slow cooker. Stir well to combine, and season with salt and pepper. Set the slow cooker to low for 7 hours, or high for 4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and easily mashable.
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Mash The Potatoes
- Once the potatoes are soft, take a potato masher and mash them gently in the slow cooker. Leave some chunks for texture, or mash it completely for a smoother soup-your choice!
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Add Cream And Cheese
- Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup becomes luxuriously creamy. You can adjust the texture here by adding a bit more chicken broth if it’s too thick.
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Finish With Toppings
- Stir in some of the crumbled bacon and a scoop of sour cream to make the soup extra rich. Add the rest of the bacon bits on top when serving.
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Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a sprinkle of chives or green onions, plus extra cheese if you like it extra cheesy. Enjoy!
Ingredient Insights
Let’s take a closer look at some of the key ingredients that make this soup so special.
- Russet Potatoes: These are the go-to potato for mashed potatoes and creamy soups because they break down easily and give the soup its smooth, velvety texture. The starch content in russets helps thicken the soup, making it feel rich and satisfying.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is perfect for this recipe because it adds that tangy, savory bite that pairs so well with the richness of the cream and the smokiness of the bacon. It melts beautifully, giving the soup a luscious, gooey consistency.
- Bacon: Bacon doesn’t just add flavor-it brings texture to the soup as well. Crispy bacon bits on top create that delightful crunch that contrasts with the smoothness of the potatoes and cream. Plus, the smokiness of the bacon enhances the overall flavor profile of the soup.
- Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives the soup its luxurious texture. It helps make the soup rich and velvety without being overly thick or heavy. It balances out the potato’s starchiness and works in harmony with the cheese to create that indulgent mouthfeel.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a tangy contrast to the creamy soup, brightening up the flavors and providing a nice contrast to the richness of the potatoes and cheese.
Expert Tips
- Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: While the slow cooker does most of the work, keep an eye on the potatoes to ensure they don’t overcook. If they break apart too much, you might lose some of the desired texture. Aim for soft, but still chunked, potatoes.
- Blend for a Smooth Soup: If you prefer a super-smooth texture, you can use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup. Just be sure to leave a few potato chunks for that “loaded” texture.
- Make It Ahead: This soup actually tastes better the next day! So, feel free to make it in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat gently on the stove and add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
- Adjust the Thickness: If the soup gets too thick after it’s been sitting for a while, you can always thin it out with a little extra chicken broth, milk, or cream to get the consistency just right.
- Garnish Generously: The toppings make this soup, so don’t skimp! A generous sprinkle of cheddar cheese, bacon bits, chives, and a swirl of sour cream make the soup visually appealing and add a lot of flavor and texture.
Recipe Variations
This loaded potato soup is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative with it. Here are a few variations to try:
- Vegan/Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and use a dairy-free cream or coconut milk for a vegan-friendly version. You can also use plant-based bacon or skip the bacon altogether.
- Spicy Kick: Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a spicy kick. If you like a bit of heat, this can balance the richness of the cream and cheese.
- Add Veggies: For an extra dose of nutrients, add in other vegetables like carrots, celery, or even corn. Just chop them finely and throw them in with the potatoes to cook.
- Loaded with Protein: Add cooked chicken, sausage, or even leftover ham for a more hearty, protein-packed version of this soup.
Final Words
Loaded potato soup is the epitome of comfort food. It’s simple, indulgent, and can be made with just a handful of ingredients. But when you cook it in the slow cooker, you get that wonderful hands-off convenience that’s perfect for busy days. The rich texture, melted cheese, and crispy bacon make every spoonful a delight. It’s the type of meal that brings people together-whether you’re sitting down for a family dinner or serving it at a gathering with friends.
The beauty of this soup is that it’s customizable. You can tailor the ingredients to suit your taste preferences, dietary needs, or whatever you have on hand. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with different add-ins, you can’t go wrong.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For A Loaded Potato Soup Slow Cooker Recipe?
The basic ingredients for a loaded potato soup slow cooker recipe typically include potatoes, chicken broth, onion, garlic, cream cheese, milk, cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions. Seasonings like salt, pepper, and thyme are also commonly used.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Loaded Potato Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Cooking loaded potato soup in a slow cooker usually takes 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. The potatoes should be tender, and the flavors well-combined by the end of the cooking time.
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes For A Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Soup Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen potatoes for a loaded potato soup. However, it may slightly alter the texture, and you may need to adjust cooking times. Ensure they are cut into small chunks for even cooking.
Do I Need To Peel The Potatoes For A Loaded Potato Soup Slow Cooker Recipe?
Peeling the potatoes is optional. Leaving the skins on adds texture and nutrients to the soup, but if you prefer a smoother consistency, you can peel them before adding them to the slow cooker.
Can I Make Loaded Potato Soup In A Slow Cooker Without Bacon?
Yes, you can make loaded potato soup without bacon. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute bacon with a plant-based alternative or omit it entirely, adding more seasonings to enhance the flavor.
How Do I Thicken My Loaded Potato Soup In A Slow Cooker?
To thicken loaded potato soup, you can use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes directly in the slow cooker. Alternatively, you can add a thickening agent like cornstarch mixed with water or flour if needed.
Can I Use Half-and-half Or Heavy Cream Instead Of Milk In Loaded Potato Soup?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk. These alternatives will make the soup richer and creamier, though they may increase the overall calorie count.
Can I Add Vegetables Other Than Potatoes To A Loaded Potato Soup Slow Cooker Recipe?
Yes, you can add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or leeks to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the soup. Just be sure to cut them into small pieces for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers Of Loaded Potato Soup?
Store leftover loaded potato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra milk or broth to restore the desired consistency.
Can I Freeze Loaded Potato Soup Made In The Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can freeze loaded potato soup. Allow the soup to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a little more liquid to restore the texture.