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Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup
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Warm up with a creamy and hearty Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup combining tender russet potatoes, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a velvety broth. This slow cooker recipe is effortless to prepare, packed with rich flavors, and perfect for cozy meals or meal prepping. Customize it easily for dietary preferences and enjoy a comforting bowl that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 4 to 5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Dairy

  • 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp butter

Protein and Seasonings

  • 6 slices crispy bacon, chopped (or turkey bacon or smoked paprika for no pork)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional garnishes: chopped chives or green onions

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes and Aromatics: Wash and peel the russet potatoes, then cut them into bite-sized chunks for even cooking and creamy consistency. Dice the onion and mince the garlic to release their aromatic flavors during cooking.
  2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Place the potatoes, onions, garlic, chicken broth, butter, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker. Stir well to mix evenly; this will form the flavorful base that slowly becomes a rich soup.
  3. Cook Until Tender: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender and flavors meld together.
  4. Add Cheese, Cream Cheese, and Bacon: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, and crispy bacon pieces. This enriches the soup with a velvety texture and smoky depth.
  5. Finish with Sour Cream and Garnishes: Turn off the slow cooker and gently stir in the sour cream for extra creaminess. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with chopped chives or green onions, additional bacon bits, or more shredded cheese for a beautiful presentation.

Notes

  • Choose russet potatoes; they break down well for creamy soup.
  • Optionally sauté onions and garlic before adding to intensify flavor.
  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for bold, melty richness.
  • Reserve some bacon for garnish to add texture contrast.
  • Adjust thickness by mashing some potatoes or adding broth if needed.
  • Vegetarian option: substitute vegetable broth and omit bacon.
  • Dairy-free version: use coconut milk or cashew cream in place of dairy.
  • For extra heat, add cayenne pepper or jalapeños.
  • Soup freezes well up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked potato soup, slow cooker soup, comfort food, creamy soup, loaded potato soup, easy slow cooker recipe

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/slow-cooker-loaded-baked-potato-soup/