When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the mark like a hearty bowl of Potato and Bacon Soup. This recipe is a perfect balance of rich, savory flavors and smooth textures, making it an ideal meal for a chilly evening, a casual dinner, or even as a crowd-pleasing side at a gathering. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its flavor but in its simplicity-no complicated techniques, just a slow cooker doing all the heavy lifting. Toss everything into the crockpot and let it work its magic while you get on with the rest of your day. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is one you’ll return to time and time again.
Potato And Bacon Soup Slow Cooker Recipe
There’s something about the way bacon’s smoky goodness mingles with creamy potatoes and tender vegetables that just feels like home. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich, comforting soup that requires minimal effort. This Potato and Bacon Soup recipe is packed with creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, a dash of herbs, and a velvety broth that will have your taste buds dancing. Best of all, the slow cooker does all the hard work while you relax, so it’s perfect for those days when you need a no-fuss, but delicious, meal.
Ingredients Needed
This recipe is pretty straightforward, but each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that satisfying depth of flavor. Here’s a list of everything you’ll need:
- 6 to 8 medium-sized potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet are best for their creamy texture)
- 1 lb (about 16 oz) of bacon (thick-cut for a more hearty, smoky flavor)
- 1 large onion (diced, adds sweetness and depth)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced, for that aromatic base)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 2 cups heavy cream (for that luxurious creaminess)
- 1 cup milk (whole milk works best for a rich texture)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar gives a nice tang)
- 1 tsp dried thyme (adds a subtle herbal flavor)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust depending on the saltiness of the broth and bacon)
- ½ tsp black pepper (for a gentle kick)
- 2 tbsp butter (for extra richness)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (to help thicken the soup)
- Optional toppings: Chopped green onions, extra shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream
Cooking Instructions
Now comes the best part: putting it all together in your slow cooker. Follow these steps for a smooth, creamy potato and bacon soup:
- Prepare the potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes (about 1-inch pieces). If you like a little texture in your soup, feel free to leave the skins on!
- Cook the bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 7-10 minutes. Once done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Chop into small pieces and set aside.
- Sauté the onion and garlic: In the same skillet (don’t clean it yet-those bacon bits add flavor!), sauté the diced onion over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Load the slow cooker: Transfer the cooked onions and garlic to your slow cooker. Add the diced potatoes, bacon, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir, then cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Blend for texture (optional): Once the potatoes are soft, you can either leave the soup as is for a chunky texture or use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup for a creamier consistency. If you prefer a completely smooth soup, blend it all.
- Make it creamy: In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, and flour until smooth. Add this mixture to the soup and stir to combine. Let it cook for another 20-30 minutes on low heat until thickened.
- Finishing touches: Stir in the butter and shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls, and top with additional cheese, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream, if desired. Serve with some crusty bread on the side for the ultimate comfort meal.
Ingredient Insights
To really make this soup stand out, let’s take a closer look at some of the key ingredients:
- Potatoes: Yukon Golds are ideal for their naturally creamy texture, but Russets work too if you’re aiming for a slightly chunkier soup. Potatoes also thicken the broth naturally as they cook, adding to the velvety texture.
- Bacon: Thick-cut bacon adds a meaty, smoky flavor that can’t be replicated by other meats. It provides a satisfying crunch when crispy, and that umami flavor that makes the soup so irresistible.
- Heavy Cream and Milk: The combination of these two dairy products brings out the rich, creamy mouthfeel that is essential for this soup. The cream is what gives it that velvety, luxurious texture, while the milk helps balance out the richness.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is the best choice for this soup because it adds a tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the cream and bacon. Plus, it melts beautifully into the soup, making it extra creamy.
- Thyme: This herb has a subtle earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with potatoes and bacon. It adds depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
Expert Tips
- Crisp the bacon properly: The bacon should be crisped up before adding it to the slow cooker to avoid it becoming soggy and rubbery. Plus, the bacon fat left in the skillet can be used to sauté the onions and garlic, which intensifies the flavor.
- Adjust the consistency: If you like your soup thicker, you can blend more of the potatoes or use a bit more flour in the cream mixture. If you prefer a thinner soup, just add a little more milk or broth to loosen it up.
- Add a secret ingredient: Try adding a splash of white wine or a dash of hot sauce to bring some unexpected depth to the flavor profile.
- Use a slow cooker liner: To make cleanup easier, consider using a slow cooker liner. This will save you time on scrubbing and ensure your soup doesn’t stick to the sides of the crockpot.
Recipe Variations
If you’re looking to customize this recipe or give it a twist, here are some ideas:
- Spicy Potato and Bacon Soup: Add a diced jalapeño or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes to give your soup a kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can still get that savory depth by adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a ’bacon-like’ flavor.
- Loaded Potato Soup: Turn it into a loaded potato soup by adding toppings like sour cream, chives, extra cheese, and crumbled bacon. This takes it from comforting to indulgent.
- Smoked Sausage or Chicken: Swap out the bacon for smoked sausage or cooked chicken if you’re craving something different but still want that smoky flavor.
Final Words
Potato and Bacon Soup is one of those dishes that seems simple but has the power to make any meal feel special. The slow cooker makes it hands-off, and the ingredients work in harmony to create a rich, velvety soup that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this soup is guaranteed to impress. And with all the customization options available, it can easily be adapted to suit any dietary preference or flavor craving.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For Potato And Bacon Soup In A Slow Cooker?
The key ingredients for potato and bacon soup in a slow cooker typically include potatoes, bacon, onions, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, butter, salt, pepper, and optional herbs like thyme or rosemary.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Potato And Bacon Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Potato and bacon soup usually takes about 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in a slow cooker, depending on the size of the potato chunks and the desired texture.
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes In The Slow Cooker For This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen potatoes, but it may slightly alter the cooking time. Be sure to add them early enough for them to cook through, and check the texture as you go.
Should I Sauté The Bacon Before Adding It To The Slow Cooker?
Yes, it’s recommended to sauté the bacon first to render out the fat and enhance the flavor. You can add the crispy bacon to the slow cooker once it’s cooked.
Can I Make Potato And Bacon Soup In The Slow Cooker Without Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with milk, half-and-half, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk. The texture and richness may vary slightly, but the soup will still be delicious.
What Type Of Potatoes Are Best For Potato And Bacon Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for potato and bacon soup. They are starchy enough to create a creamy texture when cooked and mashed, yet hold their shape well.
Can I Make The Potato And Bacon Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, potato and bacon soup can be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
How Can I Make My Potato And Bacon Soup Thicker?
To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the slow cooker or use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup. Alternatively, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water.
Can I Add Vegetables Like Carrots Or Celery To The Potato And Bacon Soup?
Yes, adding vegetables like carrots, celery, or leeks can enhance the flavor and texture of the soup. Chop them into small pieces and add them to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients.
Is It Necessary To Peel The Potatoes For This Recipe?
Peeling the potatoes is optional. Leaving the skins on can add texture and extra nutrients to the soup, especially with Yukon Gold potatoes, which have thin, edible skins.