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Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a creamy, comforting dish featuring tender russet potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and fresh green onions simmered slowly in a savory chicken broth. Perfect for chilly nights and easy meal prep, this hearty soup combines rich flavors and a luscious texture that will warm your soul.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 45 large Russet potatoes, peeled and diced into bite-sized chunks
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions, for garnish

Optional Variations

  • Smoked paprika or liquid smoke (to replace bacon for vegetarian version)
  • Diced carrots, celery, or corn (for extra veggies)
  • Monterey Jack or Gouda cheese (for cheese mix variation)
  • Coconut milk or cashew cream (for dairy-free swap)
  • Cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños (to add spice)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and dice the russet potatoes into bite-sized chunks to ensure even cooking and maintain the perfect texture throughout the soup.
  2. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it is crispy. Remove from heat, drain on paper towels, and crumble once cool to add a crunchy texture to the soup.
  3. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Place the diced potatoes, cooked bacon, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine all the base flavors evenly.
  4. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
  5. Finish with Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture becomes creamy. Add sour cream for a tangy richness if desired.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Top the soup with fresh green onions, additional bacon bits, and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese before serving. Enjoy your warm, hearty bowl of Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup.

Notes

  • Use Russet potatoes for their starchy texture which helps thicken the soup while keeping chunks intact.
  • Don’t over-stir during cooking to preserve potato chunks.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and richer flavor.
  • Adjust creaminess by starting with less cream and adding more after cooking to suit your preference.
  • Season gradually and taste before serving to perfectly balance salt and pepper.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, baked potato soup, loaded potato soup, comfort food, creamy potato soup, bacon soup, easy dinner, crockpot soup