Creamy Loaded Crockpot Potato Soup with Baked Potato Flavor 🥔✨🍲
1. Introduction
Welcome to your new favorite comfort food recipe: slow cooker potato soup. This crockpot potato soup combines the hearty goodness of baked potatoes with a rich, creamy texture that is perfect for chilly days or cozy nights. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, this creamy potato stew is incredibly easy to prepare with minimal effort. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an ultimate baked potato-inspired dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
2. Ingredients for Creamy Loaded Crockpot Potato Soup
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk for a lighter option
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices crispy bacon, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, extra cheese, chopped chives
3. How to Make This Creamy Loaded Crockpot Potato Soup
Preparation of the Ingredients
Start by peeling and cubing the russet potatoes to ensure even cooking. Chop the onion and mince the garlic for maximum flavor. Prepare the bacon ahead of time for a crispy texture to garnish later.
Cooking the Soup
Step 1: Combine ingredients in the slow cooker
Place the cubed potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, butter, salt, and pepper into the Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then cover and set to cook on low for 6-8 hours until potatoes are tender.
Step 2: Mash and stir for creaminess
Once cooked, use a potato masher or immersion blender to slightly mash the potatoes directly in the crockpot, giving the soup a thicker, creamy texture. Stir in the heavy cream or milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue to cook on low until the cheese melts and the soup is heated through.
Step 3: Final touches and garnishes
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, topped with crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, and optional toppings like sour cream or extra cheese for added richness.
4. Tips for Perfect Crockpot Potato Soup
- For a gluten-free version, skip the flour or thickening agents.
- If you prefer a smoother soup, blend it completely using an immersion blender before adding cheese and cream.
- Use freshly grated cheese for melty goodness and best flavor.
- For a vegan option, substitute the cream with coconut milk and omit bacon, replacing with smoked paprika or sautéed mushrooms.
5. Storage and Reheating Tips
This slow cooker potato soup stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. For freezing, let the soup cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Reheat thoroughly before serving for best results. Note that cheese and cream might alter texture upon freezing, so consider adding fresh toppings when serving later.
6. Serving Suggestions for a Hearty Meal
This baked potato soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic bread slices. For an added protein boost, serve alongside Mediterranean steak bowls or a fresh salad. Enjoy it as a filling lunch or comforting dinner for cold days.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this crockpot potato soup vegan?
Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and omit bacon. Use sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for smoky flavor.
What are the best potatoes for crockpot potato soup?
Russet potatoes work best due to their starchy texture, which creates a smooth, creamy soup. You can also mix in Yukon Gold for a slightly different flavor.
How long does it take to prepare and cook?
The prep takes about 15 minutes, and slow cooking takes 6-8 hours on low, making this an easy and hands-off recipe.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Carrots, celery, or corn can add extra flavor and nutrition. Add them at the beginning with the potatoes.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
Enhance your cooking experience with these essential tools:
- Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker: This spacious slow cooker makes preparing hearty soups effortless and mess-free, with excellent heat retention and even cooking.
- KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer: Perfect for quickly shredding cheese or mixing ingredients thoroughly to achieve that creamy consistency.
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: For crispy bacon topping or to reheat leftovers with a perfectly crunchy finish.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: Versatile of choice for grilling bacon or preparing toppings that add flavor and texture to your soup.
9. Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of slow cooker potato soup — especially when it’s loaded with the flavors of baked potatoes. This creamy potato stew offers easy, hands-off preparation with maximum flavor and satisfaction. Whether you prefer classic toppings or want to customize it for dietary needs, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy cozy nights with a bowl of hearty goodness!
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Creamy Loaded Crockpot Potato Soup with Baked Potato Flavor
This slow cooker loaded potato soup combines the flavors of a baked potato with creamy comfort. Made with tender potatoes, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions, this soup is perfect for chilly nights and family meals.
- Total Time: 6-8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place diced potatoes in the slow cooker and add broth. Cook on low for 6-8 hours until potatoes are tender.
- Use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash or blend the soup to your desired consistency.
- Stir in butter, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve topped with crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and extra cheese if desired.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, mash more potatoes or add a splash of cream.
- Feel free to customize toppings with jalapenos, chives, or diced tomatoes.
- This soup can be prepared in advance and reheated easily.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg