Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

If you're searching for a comforting, creamy, and utterly delicious meal to satisfy your taste buds, look no further than Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup. This hearty soup combines the richness of baked potatoes with a medley of classic toppings like crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions. It’s a dish that's perfect for cozy nights, family gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week. Plus, it's made in a slow cooker, which means minimal effort with maximum flavor. Read on to discover how you can create this mouthwatering soup in the comfort of your kitchen.

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What is Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a creamy, flavorful soup made from potatoes, bacon, cheese, and a few other simple ingredients. The magic happens in the slow cooker, where the ingredients slowly cook together, allowing the flavors to meld into a deliciously rich soup. The "loaded" part of the name comes from the toppings you would typically find on a loaded baked potato: sour cream, green onions, more cheese, and bacon. This soup is not only easy to prepare, but it's also a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients List for Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup

To create this delicious Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 5 large russet potatoes: Peeled and diced into small cubes. These are the star of the show, providing the hearty base of the soup.
• 1 medium yellow onion: Finely chopped. The onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the soup.
• 3 cloves of garlic: Minced. Garlic infuses the soup with a wonderful aroma and enhances the overall taste.
• 4 cups chicken broth: This forms the liquid base of the soup. You can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the soup. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half.
• 1 cup sour cream: For tanginess and additional creaminess.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar is preferred for a robust flavor, but you can mix in other cheeses if desired.
• 8 slices of bacon: Cooked until crispy and crumbled. This adds a smoky, salty flavor that complements the potatoes perfectly.
• 3 green onions: Sliced thinly. These are used as a garnish for a fresh, crisp contrast to the creamy soup.
• Salt and pepper: To taste. These essential seasonings bring all the flavors together.

Ingredients List for Toppings

For that fully "loaded" experience, here’s what you'll need for toppings:

• Extra shredded cheddar cheese: You can never have too much cheese, right?
• Extra crumbled bacon: Because a little more bacon never hurt.
• Chopped chives or green onions: These add a pop of color and freshness.
• Dollops of sour cream: For extra creaminess and tang.
• Freshly ground black pepper: A final sprinkle to enhance the flavors.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup is its versatility. You can easily modify the recipe to suit your dietary preferences or simply to mix things up. Here are some substitutions and variations you can consider:

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and omit the bacon. You can add smoked paprika to impart a smoky flavor without the meat.
• Lighter Version: Use low-fat sour cream and cheese, and substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk. You can also skip the bacon or use turkey bacon for a lighter option.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check labels on pre-packaged ingredients like broth to ensure they are gluten-free.
• Cheese Variations: Try mixing in some smoked gouda or pepper jack for a twist on the classic flavor.
• Extra Veggies: Add in some chopped celery or carrots for extra texture and nutrition.
• Spicy Version: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick of heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a breeze. Just follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small cubes. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, then crumble it into pieces.
2. Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Place the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic into the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the potatoes are mostly covered by the liquid.
3. Cook on Low: Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6-7 hours. If you're in a hurry, you can cook on high for 3-4 hours, but the flavors develop better with the low and slow method.
4. Mash the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are fork-tender, use a potato masher to mash them directly in the slow cooker. This will give your soup a thicker, creamier consistency. If you prefer a chunkier soup, mash only half the potatoes.
5. Add the Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
6. Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to taste. Remember to taste the soup before adding too much salt, as the bacon and cheese already contribute some saltiness.
7. Serve with Toppings: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheese, bacon, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream.

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

Here’s a more detailed guide to ensure your Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup turns out perfectly every time:

1. Select the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the best choice for this soup because they break down nicely during cooking, giving the soup its creamy texture.
2. Don’t Skip the Bacon: Cooking the bacon until crispy is crucial. Not only does it add a delightful crunch, but the rendered fat can also be used to sauté the onions and garlic for an added depth of flavor.
3. Mind the Liquid Ratio: Make sure your potatoes are mostly covered with broth at the beginning. If your slow cooker runs hot, you might need to add an extra half cup of broth during cooking to prevent the soup from becoming too thick.
4. Mash Gradually: When mashing the potatoes, do it gradually. You can always mash more if you want a smoother consistency, but it’s hard to go back once the potatoes are fully mashed.
5. Cheese Last: Add the cheese at the end of the cooking process. Adding it too early can cause the cheese to break down and become grainy.
6. Adjust Seasoning at the End: Since the bacon and cheese add saltiness, wait until the soup is fully cooked before adjusting the seasoning.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple recipe like Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Potatoes: If left too long, the potatoes can turn mushy and lose their texture. Stick to the recommended cooking times.
• Adding Cheese Too Early: As mentioned, adding cheese too early can lead to a grainy texture. Always add it towards the end.
• Forgetting to Season Gradually: It’s easier to add more salt than to fix an overly salty soup, so season gradually and taste as you go.
• Not Mashing Enough: If the potatoes aren’t mashed sufficiently, the soup might be too thin. Mash until you reach the desired consistency.
• Skipping the Toppings: The toppings are what make this soup truly "loaded." Don’t skimp on them!

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serving your Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup can be as simple or as fancy as you like. Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation:

1. Bread Bowls: Serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic, hearty presentation.
2. Individual Toppings Station: Set up a toppings bar where everyone can customize their soup with their favorite toppings.
3. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a touch of color and freshness.
4. Use White Bowls: White bowls make the colors of the soup and toppings pop, making for a visually appealing dish.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup

This soup is quite filling on its own, but here are some ideas to complete your meal:

• With Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Side Salad: A light, fresh salad can balance out the richness of the soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Pairing the soup with a grilled cheese sandwich creates a classic comfort food combo.
• With a Cold Drink: The richness of the soup pairs well with a cold, crisp drink like iced tea or a light beer.

Presentation Ideas for Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup

• Layered Toppings: Layer the toppings neatly on top of the soup, with a final sprinkle of chives or green onions.
• Serve in Mason Jars: For a fun, casual presentation, serve the soup in wide-mouth mason jars.
• Garnish with Bacon and Cheese: Create a crosshatch pattern with bacon strips and cheese shavings for a visually striking presentation.

Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe Tips

Here are some final tips to ensure your Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup turns out perfectly every time:

• Prep Ahead: You can prep all the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. In the morning, just add them to the slow cooker and let it do its magic.
• Storing Leftovers: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• Freezing: If you want to freeze the soup, leave out the sour cream and cheese. Add these when reheating the soup to maintain its creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use other types of potatoes?
A: Yes, Yukon Gold potatoes also work well, offering a slightly buttery flavor, but the texture will be a bit different from russet potatoes.

Q: Can I make this soup on the stovetop?
A: Absolutely. Cook the potatoes, onions, and garlic in broth until tender. Then mash, add the cream, cheese, and sour cream, and finish with the toppings.

Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
A: Yes, but the soup will be less rich. Whole milk is a better substitute if you’re looking to reduce fat.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent the soup from separating.

Q: Can I make this soup vegan?
A: Yes, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, use vegan cheese and sour cream, and omit the bacon or use a plant-based alternative.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food that brings together the creamy goodness of potatoes, the smoky crunch of bacon, and the savory richness of cheese. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting friends, or just looking to warm up on a chilly evening, this soup is sure to hit the spot. Try it today, and don’t forget to load it up with all your favorite toppings!

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