As I stood in my kitchen, the delicious aroma of bacon wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to cozy evenings spent with family. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Crock Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup—a true comfort food that’s not only creamy and hearty but also incredibly easy to prepare. What’s better? This slow-cooker delight allows you to customize it with your favorite toppings, making it a hit for both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something to warm you up on a chilly day, this soup fits the bill perfectly. Curious about how to bring all those rich, savory flavors to your table effortlessly? Let’s dive in!
Why is this soup a must-try?
Comforting and hearty, this Crock Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup is sure to warm your soul. Hands-free cooking makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights—simply set it and forget it! Versatile toppings like crispy bacon, sour cream, and chives allow everyone to customize their bowls. Creamy texture and rich flavor from cheddar cheese make it a favorite among families. Plus, it’s easily adaptable; switch out ingredients or try different cheeses to suit your taste. For a complete meal, serve it with some crusty bread or a fresh salad!
Crock Pot Potato Soup Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this creamy comfort in every spoonful!
For the Soup
- Yukon Gold Potatoes – The main ingredient providing body and creaminess; no peeling required for easy prep.
- Chicken Stock – The base liquid for hearty flavor; swap with vegetable stock for a vegetarian option.
- Cooked Bacon – Adds a smoky richness; feel free to omit for a vegetarian version.
- Onion Powder – Enhances the flavor profile; fresh onions can be substituted if preferred.
- Butter – Adds richness and helps with the roux; margarine works as a suitable alternative.
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the soup effortlessly; a gluten-free flour will work in its place.
- Evaporated Milk – Creates a wonderfully creamy texture; replace with whole milk or cream for a slightly different outcome.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust based on the cheese used for added flavor.
- Plain Greek Yogurt – Contributes creaminess and a tangy flavor; sour cream can be a tasty alternative.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Provides that rich, cheesy flavor; try mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist.
Toppings
- Sour Cream – Adds a cool, creamy finish; perfect alongside the warmth of the soup.
- Chives – Fresh chives provide a nice burst of color and flavor; green onions can also make a great substitute.
- Extra Cheese – Additional shredded cheese on top gives you a cheesy bliss in every bite; mix and match cheeses to your liking!
With these simple ingredients, your Crock Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup is only a few steps away from being a cozy family favorite! Enjoy!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crock Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Start by chopping your Yukon gold potatoes into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they’re uniform for even cooking. While you’re at it, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until crispy, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, chop the bacon into bits and set it aside, ready to add that smoky flavor to your Crock Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup.
Step 2: Combine in Slow Cooker
In your slow cooker, combine the chopped Yukon gold potatoes, cooked bacon bits, and sprinkles of onion powder. Pour in the chicken stock, covering the potatoes completely. Secure the lid and set the slow cooker on LOW. Allow the mixture to cook for 7 to 8 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the soup is infused with flavor.
Step 3: Make Roux
About 30 minutes before serving, it’s time to prepare the roux. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour until you achieve a smooth paste, cooking for about 2 minutes. Gradually pour in evaporated milk while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and bubbles lightly, creating a luscious texture for your soup.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Carefully pour the thickened roux into the slow cooker with your Crock Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup. Stir well to incorporate, allowing the creamy mixture to blend with the potatoes. Then, add the plain Greek yogurt and shredded sharp cheddar cheese, continuing to stir until everything is melted and smooth, creating that irresistibly creamy texture.
Step 5: Serve
Once your soup is perfectly creamy and hot, it’s time to serve! Ladle the Crock Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup into bowls, inviting everyone to customize their servings with desired toppings like sour cream, extra shredded cheese, and fresh chives. Enjoy the warming embrace of this delightful soup that feels like a cozy hug in every spoonful!
Crock Pot Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful soup—your taste buds will thank you!
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Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock and omit bacon for a hearty, meat-free version. You won’t miss the meat with all the savory flavors!
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Extra Veggies: Add diced carrots, celery, or spinach for a colorful and nutritious boost. These veggies add depth while enhancing the soup’s flavor and texture.
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Spicy Kick: For those who like a bit of heat, toss in sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. This simple addition can elevate the flavors to new heights!
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Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk instead of evaporated milk for a creamy, dairy-free version that still satisfies. You’ll love the unexpected twist of flavor!
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Gourmet Cheese: Experiment with cheeses like gouda, feta, or pepper jack for a rich flavor profile. Each cheese adds its unique character to the soup, making every bowl a delightful surprise.
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Protein Switch: Swap out the bacon for cooked sausage, ham, or turkey for a different protein punch. It lends a wonderful heartiness, perfect for a filling meal.
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Creamier Texture: For an ultra-creamy soup, reserve half of the potato chunks and blend them with a bit of broth before mixing with the remaining soup. This creates a delightful, smooth consistency.
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Starchy Add-ins: Try adding cooked pasta or rice for a heartier meal. It transforms the soup into a complete dish that’s perfect for hungry bellies.
And if you’re looking for more delicious ideas to pair with this soup, don’t forget to check out my Sweet Potato Fries or serve alongside a comforting bowl of Crockpot Beef Noodles for a family feast!
What to Serve with Crock Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Complement your slow-cooked delight with these delicious pairings that will elevate every bite.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, this hearty bread adds a satisfying crunch to your creamy soup.
- Garden Salad: A light, refreshing salad filled with crunchy vegetables provides balance to the rich flavors of the soup.
- Steamed Broccoli: Tender, vibrant broccoli adds a fresh touch and a hint of color to your meal, making it well-rounded.
- Garlic Breadsticks: These soft, buttery sticks bring an irresistible flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy potato soup, making every bite a treat.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Melty and cheesy, a classic grilled cheese sandwich is the dreamy match for a warm bowl of potato soup.
- Crispy Toppings: Add a delightful crunch with crispy fried onions or crushed potato chips sprinkled on top for extra texture and flavor.
- Sparkling Water: A refreshing beverage choice that cleanses your palate between bites, enhancing the savory experience.
- Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with warm apple crisp, providing a warm, contrasting flavor to the comfort of the soup.
Make Ahead Options
These Crock Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup components are perfect for meal prep! You can chop your Yukon gold potatoes and cook your bacon up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can prepare the roux and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. This way, when you’re ready to enjoy your creamy soup, simply combine the prepared ingredients in your slow cooker, add the chicken stock, and proceed with cooking as directed. This not only saves you time during busy weeknights but also ensures that every spoonful is just as delicious and comforting as if made that day.
Expert Tips for Crock Pot Potato Soup
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Timing Matters: Avoid overcooking by sticking to the LOW setting for 7-8 hours. High heat can turn your potatoes mushy, ruining that perfect texture.
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Roux Right: Let the evaporated milk come to room temperature before mixing to prevent any risk of curdling. This ensures a smooth and creamy consistency for your soup.
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For Added Thickness: Mash some of the potatoes against the side of the slow cooker before adding the cheese and yogurt. This trick thickens the soup while keeping it hearty.
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Watch Your Broth: Keep an eye on the liquid levels; if the soup thickens too much, simply add more chicken or vegetable stock to restore its creamy goodness.
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Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like gouda or feta for a unique flavor twist in your Crock Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup.
Storage Tips for Crock Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Fridge: Store the Crock Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This ensures it stays fresh while maintaining its creamy texture.
Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just leave a bit of room at the top for expansion during freezing.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, defrost overnight in the fridge if frozen, then reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to achieve a smooth consistency.
Topping Storage: Keep toppings like cheese and bacon separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness and crunchiness.
Crock Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes are best for this soup?
Absolutely! Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this Crock Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup. Their creamy texture and buttery flavor enhance the soup, and there’s no need to peel them—keeping your prep simple!
How should I store leftovers?
You can store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to maintain that delicious creamy texture!
Can I freeze the soup? How?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Simply pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and heat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally.
What if my soup is too thick?
No worries! If your soup is thicker than you’d like, simply add more chicken or vegetable stock, a little at a time, while stirring until you reach your desired consistency. This keeps the soup comforting without losing its delicious flavors.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you’re preparing this soup for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily substitute ingredients. For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken stock for vegetable stock and omit the bacon. Additionally, a gluten-free flour can replace all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
Can I use different toppings?
The more the merrier! Customize your toppings to your heart’s content. Feel free to add crispy fried onions, sautéed mushrooms, or even avocado slices for a fresh twist. Each addition brings its own unique flavor profile to your Crock Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup!
Crock Pot Potato Soup: Creamy Comfort in Every Spoonful
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by chopping your Yukon gold potatoes into bite-sized pieces and cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- In your slow cooker, combine the chopped Yukon gold potatoes, cooked bacon bits, and onion powder. Pour in the chicken stock and set to LOW, cooking for 7-8 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, melt the butter in a saucepan, whisk in the flour until smooth, and gradually pour in evaporated milk until thickened.
- Pour the thickened roux into the slow cooker, stirring well. Add Greek yogurt and cheddar cheese, mixing until melted and smooth.
- Serve the soup hot, allowing everyone to add toppings like sour cream, extra cheese, and chives.
