Slow Cooker Potato Soup

Introduction

If you’re searching for a warm, comforting, and hearty meal, this slow cooker potato soup recipe is a must-try. Inspired by the flavors of a loaded baked potato, this dish combines creamy potatoes, savory toppings, and rich flavors perfect for any season. Whether you’re aiming to impress your family at dinner or prepare a cozy treat for a chilly evening, this slow cooker recipe simplifies the process for an effortlessly delicious result.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium yellow onion, diced
– 3 cups of chicken broth
– 2 cups of whole milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Green onions or parsley for garnish

Prep Time

The preparation for this slow cooker potato soup is minimal, taking less than 15 minutes to get everything ready. From peeling the potatoes and chopping the onions to preparing the broth and gathering your dairy, it’s as simple as combining the ingredients and letting the slow cooker do most of the work.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 6 hours on low, or 3 hours on high in your slow cooker.
Total Time: Approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes for low or 3 hours and 15 minutes for high.
Yield: Serves 6 hearty portions, though it can easily be adjusted for smaller or larger groups.

This slow cooker potato soup is a delightful recipe that encapsulates all the flavors of a loaded baked potato in a convenient, hassle-free dish. Give it a try for a comforting and satisfying meal!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and dice the potatoes into small, even-sized cubes, approximately ½ inch in size. This ensures they cook evenly.

Step 2 – Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

Place the diced potatoes into the slow cooker. Add the chicken broth, minced garlic, diced onions, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3 – Cook the Soup

Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours, until the potatoes are soft and can be easily mashed with a fork.

Step 4 – Mash or Blend the Potatoes

Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash the potatoes directly in the slow cooker. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend more thoroughly using the immersion blender.

Step 5 – Add Cream and Cheese

Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese has melted and the soup is creamy.

Step 6 – Adjust Seasoning

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

Step 7 – Prepare Toppings

While the soup finishes cooking, prepare the toppings. Cook and crumble the bacon, chop the green onions, and shred extra cheese if desired for garnish.

Step 8 – Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of toppings such as crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions. Serve warm.

Notes

Note on Texture

For a chunkier soup, mash the potatoes lightly, leaving small pieces intact. For a creamy soup, blend thoroughly with an immersion blender.

Note on Cheese

Shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded cheese for better melting and a smoother texture.

Note on Substitutions

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter soup, but the texture will be slightly thinner.

Note on Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Note on Freezing

Potato soup doesn’t freeze well due to the cream content; it may separate upon thawing. It is best to consume the soup fresh.

Note on Adding Protein

For an additional protein boost, add shredded chicken, ham, or even cooked sausage into the soup before serving.

Note on Vegetarian Option

To make the soup vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the bacon toppings.

Cook Techniques

Preparing the Potatoes

Peel and dice the potatoes into small chunks to ensure they cook evenly and soften properly during the cooking process.

Sautéing Aromatics

Sauté the onions and garlic in butter before adding them to the slow cooker. This step enhances the flavor of the soup by developing the sweetness of the onions and deepening the garlic aroma.

Layering Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Always layer the potatoes and other vegetables evenly on the bottom of the slow cooker. This ensures even cooking and proper melding of flavors.

Thickening the Soup

To create a creamy consistency, mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the slow cooker or use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup.

Adding Final Dairy Elements

Add milk, cream, and sour cream toward the end of cooking. This prevents these ingredients from curdling and maintains the soup’s creamy texture.

Topping and Serving

Serve the soup hot, topped with freshly shredded cheese, crispy bacon, and chopped green onions for a loaded baked potato flavor.

FAQ

Can I use evaporated milk instead of cream?

Yes, evaporated milk can be used as a lighter alternative to cream without compromising the overall creaminess of the soup.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover potato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Can I freeze potato soup?

It is not recommended to freeze potato soup, as the potatoes and dairy components may separate and change texture when reheated.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

While Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, Russet potatoes can also be used. However, the texture might be slightly different.

Do I have to pre-cook the bacon?

Yes, it is best to cook the bacon until crispy before adding it as a topping. This prevents the bacon from becoming soft or chewy in the soup.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can make the soup vegetarian by using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock and omitting bacon. Consider adding smoky spices for additional flavor.

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Potato Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you’re craving something cozy. This loaded baked potato-style soup brings all your favorite flavors together in one pot, offering an easy and delicious meal. By using a slow cooker, you save time and energy while creating a rich and flavorful soup that will surely become a family favorite.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

Enjoy a classic chicken noodle soup made effortlessly in your slow cooker. Perfect for any season, this warm soup is both comforting and nourishing.

Broccoli Cheese Soup

Try a creamy and cheesy broccoli soup that’s filling and simple to prepare, making it an excellent pairing with crusty bread.

Ham and Potato Chowder

Combine diced ham and tender potatoes in a creamy chowder that’s incredibly satisfying as a standalone dish.

Sweet Corn and Bacon Soup

A delightful blend of sweet corn and crispy bacon creates a hearty soup that’s sure to please all taste buds.

Vegetable Beef Stew

Packed with hearty vegetables, tender chunks of beef, and rich flavors, make this stew a wholesome dinner option for the entire family.

Loaded Cauliflower Soup

For a lighter option, try a low-carb cauliflower soup loaded with cheese, bacon, and chives, reminiscent of your favorite baked potato flavors.