Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe
Imagine coming home to the comforting aroma of a Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup that's been simmering all day. You'll appreciate how this recipe transforms simple ingredients like russet potatoes, onions, and garlic into a creamy, hearty dish. The process is straightforward, leaving you with more time to relax or focus on other tasks. But there's a little secret to achieving that perfect balance of flavors and creamy texture. Curious about what makes this soup irresistible and how to elevate it with just a few tweaks? There's more to uncover in this delicious journey.
Recipe
Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, this soup is perfect for chilly days or whenever you're in the mood for something hearty. Using a slow cooker makes preparation a breeze, allowing the flavors to meld together over time while you go about your day.
This versatile recipe can be easily adjusted to suit your preferences, whether you like it extra cheesy or with a bit of spice. It's also an excellent way to utilize leftover baked potatoes or pantry staples, making it both economical and delicious.
The slow cooker method is ideal for this dish, as it gradually develops the flavors and guarantees the potatoes become perfectly tender. The combination of tender potatoes, savory bacon, and creamy cheese creates a luscious soup that's sure to delight your taste buds. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting guests, this Loaded Baked Potato Soup is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
- 6 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
To cook this delicious Loaded Baked Potato Soup, start by adding the diced potatoes, onion, and garlic to your slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and pepper. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
Once cooked, use a potato masher to partially mash the potatoes, leaving some chunks for texture. Stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and sour cream, mixing until the cheese is melted and the soup achieves a creamy consistency. Finally, add the crumbled bacon and mix well. Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
For the best results, consider baking the potatoes a day ahead, as this can enhance their flavor and texture. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it in during the last hour of cooking.
Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving. This soup also stores well, so you can make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Cooking Steps
To start making your scrumptious slow cooker loaded baked potato soup, toss those diced potatoes right into the slow cooker like you're adding treasure to a chest.
Next, sprinkle in the onion and garlic, imagining you're casting a magical spell for flavor.
Pour in the chicken broth, season generously with salt and pepper, and let it cook on low for several hours—ample time to catch up on your favorite show or maybe even read a book!
Step 1. Add Potatoes to Slow Cooker
Why not start with the star of the dish? Grab those russet potatoes, your trusty sidekicks in this culinary adventure.
Peel them like you're unwrapping a gift, revealing their starchy goodness underneath. Dice them up into bite-sized pieces, aiming for uniformity so they all cook evenly. Imagine you're building the foundation of your soup masterpiece—these potatoes are gonna soak up all the flavors while becoming tender and delicious.
Now, it's time to introduce these spud stars into your slow cooker. Picture them as the leading actors keenly awaiting their cue.
Gently toss them in, making sure they're spread out evenly across the bottom of the cooker. This guarantees they get maximum exposure to the broth and other flavors that'll soon join the party.
Step 2. Add Onion and Garlic
As you're building the layers of flavor for your soup, don't overlook the humble onion and garlic. These two ingredients may seem modest, but they pack a punch when it comes to adding depth and richness to your dish.
Start by dicing a medium onion; don't worry about perfect uniformity—just aim for bite-sized pieces. The onion will soften and sweeten as it cooks, lending a savory undertone to your soup.
Next, grab three cloves of garlic and mince them finely. If you're feeling adventurous, try giving them a gentle whack with the side of your knife before mincing—it's a great stress reliever! Garlic's aromatic goodness will infuse your soup with a subtle yet irresistible flavor.
Once your onion and garlic are ready, toss them into the slow cooker with the potatoes. Let them mingle and get to know each other; they'll soon work their magic.
Step 3. Pour in Chicken Broth
With the onion and garlic added to the slow cooker, it's time to pour in the chicken broth. Don't just splash it in; pour slowly and steadily, allowing the broth to mingle with the aromatic onion and garlic, creating a savory base for your soup. This step guarantees your potatoes absorb all that flavorful goodness as they cook.
You might notice a comforting aroma wafting up—it's like a culinary hug in a bowl!
Now, a quick tip: if you're using homemade chicken broth, you're already winning at life, but store-bought works just as well. Just make sure it's low-sodium so you can control the saltiness later. You'll need about four cups to cover the potatoes, guaranteeing they cook evenly and soften perfectly.
As you pour, imagine each drop infusing your soup with warmth and depth. You're setting the stage for the potatoes to transform into a creamy delight. It's not just broth; it's the unsung hero of your loaded baked potato masterpiece.
Now, sit back, take a moment to relish in anticipation, and let your slow cooker work its magic while you daydream about that first delicious spoonful!
Step 4. Season With Salt and Pepper
Once your broth is mingling with the potatoes, it's time to season with salt and pepper. You might feel like a culinary wizard as you sprinkle these humble spices into your bubbling cauldron, but don't worry—this part's as simple as it sounds.
Start by adding a couple of teaspoons of salt and a good dash of pepper. Remember, it's easier to add more later than to take it away, so don't go overboard just yet.
Grab a spoon and give everything a gentle stir to guarantee the seasoning is distributed evenly. This step is like whispering a secret to each potato piece, making sure they all hear the flavorful message.
As you mix, imagine the salt enhancing the savory notes and the pepper adding a bit of warmth and depth, transforming your soup into a cozy masterpiece.
Taste a tiny spoonful, but be careful—it's hot! Adjust the seasoning to your preference. Some folks like it peppery, while others prefer a milder profile.
Trust your taste buds; they're the boss here. And there you have it—your soup's seasoned and ready for its next delicious phase.
Step 5. Cook on Low for Hours
Your soup is expertly seasoned and ready to simmer, so let's get that slow cooker working its magic. Place the lid on your slow cooker and set it to low.
Now, you've got 6-8 hours to let those ingredients transform into a deliciously comforting meal. This is the beauty of slow cooking—you can go about your day while your kitchen fills with the irresistible aroma of potato goodness.
Here's a pro tip: resist the urge to lift the lid too often. Each peek can add to the cooking time, so just trust the process. As the hours pass, the potatoes soften, the onions become tender, and the garlic infuses everything with its savory charm.
The soup thickens naturally, creating that velvety texture everyone loves. Feel free to catch up on your favorite show, tackle some chores, or just relax, knowing a hearty meal awaits.
If you're in a hurry, you can speed things up by setting the slow cooker to high, reducing the time to 4-5 hours. But remember, good things come to those who wait—or in this case, those who slow cook!
Final Thoughts
A warm bowl of slow cooker loaded baked potato soup can be the ultimate comfort food, especially on those chilly days when you crave something hearty and satisfying.
This soup isn't just about filling your belly; it's about wrapping yourself in a cozy hug of creamy goodness. You'll love how the flavors meld together, making it feel like a warm, edible blanket.
Cooking this soup in a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, letting the aromas fill your home as you go about your day.
The best part? You can tweak the recipe to fit your taste buds. Want more cheese? Go for it. A bit of spice? Throw in some cayenne pepper. You're the boss of your soup!
Once you've mastered this dish, you might find yourself making it for every family gathering or potluck.
Remember, leftovers are your best friend; they taste even better the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Vegetable Broth Instead of Chicken Broth?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It'll make the soup vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing flavor. Just guarantee the broth is well-seasoned. Feel free to adjust other ingredients to match your taste preferences.
How Do I Make the Soup Vegetarian?
To make the soup vegetarian, swap chicken broth with vegetable broth. Skip the bacon or use plant-based alternatives. Confirm all other ingredients are vegetarian, and you'll have a delicious, meat-free version of the soup.
Can I Freeze the Leftover Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the leftover soup. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Label and date them. When you're ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter option. For a non-dairy alternative, use coconut milk or cashew cream. Adjust the quantity to maintain the soup's creamy consistency.
How Can I Make the Soup Spicier?
To make the soup spicier, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also stir in some hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount to match your preferred level of heat.