Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Soup

As the cold winter winds start to blow, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of slow cooker loaded potato soup to warm you up from the inside out. Imagine creamy, hearty potato soup infused with the smoky flavor of bacon, topped with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkled with fresh chives. This easy slow cooker potato soup recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a comforting hug in a bowl.

Picture this: the aroma of savory bacon wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the earthy scent of potatoes simmering in a rich and flavorful broth. The anticipation builds as you wait for the slow cooker to work its magic, infusing all the ingredients with robust flavors. Each spoonful promises a perfect blend of textures and tastes, making this dish a true winter classic.

Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal or planning a cozy gathering with friends and family, this slow cooker loaded potato soup is sure to impress. So, let’s dive into the details of what makes this recipe the best slow cooker loaded potato soup you’ll ever taste.

Let’s get started with why this slow cooker loaded potato soup recipe is bound to become a staple in your winter menu rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of comfort food that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying, this slow cooker loaded potato soup is the perfect choice for you. With a creamy texture and a savory bacon flavor, this soup hits all the right notes for a cozy meal on a chilly evening. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

For those following a low-calorie or keto diet, this soup can be easily adjusted to fit your nutritional needs without compromising on taste. The addition of cream cheese lends a velvety smoothness to the soup, while the absence of dairy makes it a healthy option for lactose-intolerant individuals.

With the slow cooker doing all the work, you can simply set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to develop and meld together beautifully. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a wholesome meal without the fuss of constant monitoring.

So, if you love the idea of a hearty, creamy potato soup with a hint of smokiness from bacon, this slow cooker loaded potato soup is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s gather the ingredients and get cooking!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare the best slow cooker loaded potato soup:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Potatoes	4 large	Russet potatoes work best for this recipe.
Bacon	6 slices	Use thick-cut bacon for a smokier flavor.
Onion	1 large	Yellow onion adds a sweet depth to the soup.
Chicken Broth	4 cups	Opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.

Don’t forget to grab some cream cheese, sour cream, and fresh herbs to garnish your soup and take it to the next level of deliciousness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by dicing the bacon and onion. In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy, then remove and set aside. Sauté the onion in the bacon fat until translucent.

2. Peel and cube the potatoes, then place them in the slow cooker. Add the cooked bacon and onion on top.

3. Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.

4. Once the potatoes are cooked, use a potato masher to roughly mash some of the potatoes in the slow cooker to thicken the soup.

5. Stir in the cream cheese until melted and fully incorporated into the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve the loaded potato soup hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley.

Tips for Success

1. For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese before serving.

2. To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

3. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup in a blender and mix it back into the pot for added creaminess.

4. Feel free to customize the toppings with crispy crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Variations & Substitutions

1. For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the soup for a kick of heat.

2. To make this soup dairy-free, substitute coconut milk for the cream cheese and use dairy-free sour cream for garnishing.

3. Want to up the protein content? Stir in cooked and shredded chicken or crispy tofu cubes to make it a heartier meal.

What to Serve With It

This slow cooker loaded potato soup pairs perfectly with a side of crusty bread for dipping or a fresh green salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a charcuterie board filled with cheeses, cured meats, and pickles for a gourmet touch.

Don’t forget to pour yourself a glass of your favorite wine or a hot cup of apple cider to complement the flavors of the soup on a chilly winter evening.

Storage & Reheating

To store any leftovers, transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the cream cheese from curdling. Stir occasionally to maintain a creamy texture.

If you’d like to freeze the soup, do so without the cream cheese and sour cream toppings. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and adding the garnishes.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 320 | Protein: 12g | Carbs: 30g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 3g | Sodium: 780mg

This slow cooker loaded potato soup is a high-protein and gluten-free option, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the potatoes can lead to a mushy texture. Be sure to check for doneness periodically.

2. Skipping the step of mashing some of the potatoes can result in a soup that’s too thin. Adjust the consistency to your liking.

3. Adding the cream cheese directly to a very hot soup can cause it to curdle. Make sure to temper the cream cheese before stirring it in.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this slow cooker loaded potato soup ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the soup up to a day in advance and reheat it before serving. Just remember to adjust the seasoning as needed.

Q: How can I make this soup more kid-friendly?

A: Kids love toppings! Set up a toppings bar with shredded cheese, bacon bits, and chopped scallions so they can customize their bowls.

Q: Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?

A: While fresh potatoes are recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen diced potatoes in a pinch. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Is this slow cooker loaded potato soup spicy?

A: This recipe is mild, but you can easily add heat by including diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Q: Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

A: Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is cooked through.

Conclusion

Now that you have all the tips and tricks for making the best slow cooker loaded potato soup, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking. This hearty and flavorful soup is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for chilly winter nights or casual gatherings with loved ones.

So, gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and let the magic of this creamy and satisfying soup unfold. Don’t forget to share your feedback and any creative variations you try. Warm your soul with each spoonful of this slow cooker loaded potato soup, and savor the cozy flavors of winter.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you may also like to try my Creamy Chicken Alfredo for another comforting meal that’s sure to delight your taste buds.