Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, creamy bowl of soup on a chilly day, and Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup takes comfort food to a whole new level. With rich ingredients like tender potatoes, savory bacon, and melted cheese, this hearty soup is guaranteed to please the whole family. The best part? You can make it effortlessly in your slow cooker! In this article, we’ll take you step-by-step through the process, provide ingredient lists, substitutions, and even tips on serving and presentation. Read on to discover how to create this delicious meal that will soon become a household favorite.

What is Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a rich, creamy soup packed with the comforting flavors of baked potatoes. It’s cooked in a slow cooker, which allows the flavors to blend beautifully over time. This soup features classic baked potato toppings like crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, green onions, and sour cream, all combined with tender potatoes in a smooth, velvety broth. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch, this soup brings the joy of loaded baked potatoes into a warm, spoonable format.

Ingredients List for Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this mouth-watering Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup:

• 6 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Additional shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)
• Additional cooked bacon (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

Cooking can always be personalized to fit your dietary needs or preferences. Here are some variations and substitutions you can consider when making Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup:

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and use vegetarian bacon or omit it entirely.
• Lighter Version: Swap the heavy cream with low-fat milk or use half-and-half for a lighter soup. You can also use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon to reduce fat content.
• Dairy-Free Option: For those avoiding dairy, use a plant-based cream (such as coconut or almond cream) and a dairy-free cheese substitute. There are also vegan bacon alternatives available.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check your broth and bacon to ensure no hidden gluten ingredients.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to give your soup a bit of heat.

These simple swaps can help tailor the recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a breeze when you follow these easy instructions. Whether you're an experienced cook or new to the kitchen, this slow cooker recipe makes the process almost effortless.

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Begin by peeling and dicing your potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, then set it aside on paper towels to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.

Step 2: Assemble Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In the slow cooker, add your diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, butter, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Mash the Potatoes

Once the cooking time is up, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash some of the potatoes inside the slow cooker. You want the soup to be creamy but still retain a few potato chunks for texture.

Step 5: Add Creamy Ingredients

Stir in the heavy cream and sour cream, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until the cheese has melted and the soup has reached a smooth, creamy consistency.

Step 6: Add Bacon

Fold in the crumbled bacon, reserving a small amount for garnish. Stir everything together, and let the soup cook for another 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors.

How to Cook Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prep Ingredients: Dice potatoes, chop onion, mince garlic, and cook bacon.
2. Assemble in Slow Cooker: Add potatoes, onion, garlic, broth, butter, and seasonings.
3. Slow Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Mash Potatoes: Use a masher or blender to break down some of the potatoes.
5. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in heavy cream, sour cream, and shredded cheese.
6. Add Bacon: Fold in bacon, and cook an additional 10-15 minutes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes can go awry if you're not careful. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup:

• Overcooking the Potatoes: If you cook the soup for too long, the potatoes may become mushy or disintegrate completely. Stick to the recommended cooking times.
• Not Mashing the Potatoes Properly: If you don’t mash some of the potatoes, your soup won’t reach the desired creamy consistency. Be sure to leave a few chunks but mash enough to thicken the soup.
• Adding Dairy Too Early: Adding cream or sour cream too early in the cooking process can cause them to curdle. Always add dairy products in the last 15-30 minutes of cooking.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Potatoes absorb a lot of salt, so taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serving Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a chance to get creative. Here are some ideas to make your dish look as good as it tastes:

• Garnish Wisely: Sprinkle crumbled bacon, extra shredded cheese, and chopped green onions on top of each bowl before serving.
• Serve with a Side: Pair your soup with crusty bread, garlic knots, or a simple green salad to create a well-rounded meal.
• Use Fun Bowls: Consider serving the soup in bread bowls for a restaurant-quality presentation, or use small mason jars for individual portions at a party.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup

This soup is best served piping hot, with the cheese still melting on top. You can serve it in large bowls for a filling main course or in smaller cups as a starter or side dish. For an extra cozy touch, serve it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of extra green onions for a pop of color.

Presentation Ideas for Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Make your presentation stand out by using colorful garnishes. Chopped green onions and crispy bacon add a nice contrast to the creamy soup, while a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne can offer an extra splash of color and flavor. For a rustic look, serve the soup in cast iron bowls or enamel mugs, perfect for a cozy evening by the fire.

Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe Tips

• Pre-Cook Bacon: Cooking the bacon ahead of time ensures it stays crispy when added to the soup.
• Use an Immersion Blender: For a smoother texture, consider using an immersion blender to puree the soup, leaving a few potato chunks for texture.
• Freeze Leftovers: This soup freezes well! Simply store it in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or microwave after thawing.
• Double the Recipe: If you’re serving a crowd, you can easily double this recipe. Be sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can make this soup up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

2. Can I freeze Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

Absolutely. This soup freezes well for up to three months. Just allow it to cool, then store in airtight containers before freezing.

3. How do I thicken my soup if it's too thin?

If your soup turns out thinner than you like, you can thicken it by mashing more potatoes or by adding a slurry of cornstarch and water (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) and simmering for a few minutes.

4. What type of potatoes are best for this soup?

Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their high starch content, which helps create a thick, creamy soup.

5. Can I use pre-cooked bacon bits?

Yes, pre-cooked bacon bits are a convenient option if you’re short on time. However, fresh-cooked bacon will give you the best flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a comforting, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients, endless variations, and step-by-step guidance, you’ll be able to whip up this delicious dish without a hitch. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at a party, this soup is guaranteed to be a hit. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness that will warm you from the inside out!

Print