Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

If you're craving something warm, creamy, and comforting, you're in for a treat. This Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup is everything you love about baked potatoes, transformed into a rich, hearty soup. It's perfect for cold days, busy weeknights, or just when you're in the mood for something savory and satisfying. Best of all, this recipe is made in the slow cooker, so it’s incredibly easy to prepare. Just throw in the ingredients, let them simmer, and in a few hours, you’ll have a rich, flavorful soup ready to enjoy. Keep reading to learn how to create this comforting dish step-by-step!

What is “Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup”?

Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a creamy, rich, and hearty soup made with tender potatoes, savory bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream for that perfect loaded baked potato flavor. Unlike traditional soups, this recipe captures the indulgent, comforting taste of a baked potato, but in a spoonable form. The slow cooker does all the work, letting the flavors meld together while you go about your day.

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Ingredients List for Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup

To make this delicious slow cooker recipe, you'll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

1. Potatoes – 5-6 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced.
2. Onion – 1 medium onion, finely chopped.
3. Garlic – 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced.
4. Chicken broth – 4 cups (can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option).
5. Butter – 4 tablespoons, unsalted.
6. Cream cheese – 8 oz (1 package), softened.
7. Heavy cream – 1 cup.
8. Cheddar cheese – 2 cups shredded, divided.
9. Bacon – 6-8 slices, cooked and crumbled.
10. Sour cream – ½ cup, plus extra for serving.
11. Chives or green onions – ½ cup chopped, for garnish.
12. Salt and pepper – to taste.

Optional Ingredients:

1. Hot sauce – A few dashes for a spicy kick.
2. Paprika or smoked paprika – To enhance the flavor.
3. Crispy fried onions – For an added crunch.
4. Extra bacon – If you can’t get enough!

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Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about slow cooker recipes is their flexibility. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try to customize this Loaded Baked Potato Soup recipe to your taste:

Substitutions:

• Dairy-Free Version: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk, and use dairy-free cheese and sour cream substitutes.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the bacon. You can use smoky paprika to mimic the flavor that bacon brings.
• Lower Carb Option: Replace some or all of the potatoes with cauliflower for a lighter, low-carb version of the soup.

Variations:

• Cheese Lovers: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Parmesan for more complexity.
• Meat Add-Ins: If you're not a fan of bacon, you can add cooked ham, sausage, or even shredded chicken for a twist on the traditional recipe.
• Herbs and Spices: Add thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves for a more herbaceous flavor profile, or spice it up with cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

These swaps are a great way to make this recipe your own while still keeping that indulgent, baked-potato flavor.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup is easy to make, requiring minimal prep work. Here's how to do it:

1. Prepare the Potatoes and Vegetables: Start by peeling and dicing your russet potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Then, chop your onion and mince the garlic.
2. Cook the Bacon: If you haven't cooked your bacon yet, do so now. Fry it in a pan until crispy, drain it on a paper towel, and crumble it into small pieces. Set it aside.
3. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker: Place the diced potatoes, onions, and minced garlic into the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Slow Cook: Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. You'll know the soup is ready when the potatoes are soft and tender.
5. Add Cream Cheese and Blend: Once the potatoes are fully cooked, add the softened cream cheese. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don't have an immersion blender, you can transfer batches of the soup to a regular blender.
6. Add Heavy Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
7. Taste and Adjust Seasonings: Taste your soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce if you'd like more spice.
8. Stir in Bacon and Garnish: Stir in most of your cooked bacon, reserving some for garnishing.

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

Step 1: Prepare and Chop

Start by prepping all your ingredients. This includes peeling and chopping the potatoes, onions, and garlic. It's always easier to have everything ready to go before you start assembling the soup.

Step 2: Add to Slow Cooker

Toss the diced potatoes, onions, garlic, and broth into your slow cooker. Season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Set and Forget

Let the slow cooker work its magic by cooking the soup on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. During this time, the flavors will blend together, creating a rich, velvety soup base.

Step 4: Blend and Thicken

Once the potatoes are fork-tender, add in the softened cream cheese and blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar, making sure the cheese melts completely into the mixture.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches

Finally, stir in your crispy bacon and give the soup a final taste test. Adjust the seasonings and get ready to serve!

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Not Blending the Soup

If you skip blending the soup, you’ll miss out on that thick, creamy texture that makes this dish so indulgent.

Mistake 2: Overcooking the Potatoes

If you cook the potatoes too long, they can become mushy. Keep an eye on the cooking time and adjust based on the size of your potato chunks.

Mistake 3: Using Too Much or Too Little Liquid

Stick to the recommended broth measurements. Too little liquid will make your soup too thick, while too much can make it watery.

Mistake 4: Forgetting to Season Properly

Don't forget to taste and adjust seasoning before serving! Bland soup is a common mistake, but easily fixed by adjusting salt, pepper, or adding some hot sauce for extra flavor.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

A dish as rich as Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup deserves a thoughtful presentation. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience:

How to Serve Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup

• Bowls: Serve the soup in deep bowls to keep it warm longer.
• Toppings Bar: Set up a mini toppings bar with extra shredded cheese, bacon, sour cream, and chopped chives so everyone can load up their soup just how they like it.

Presentation Ideas for Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup

• Garnish Like a Pro: Top each bowl with a generous sprinkle of cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, crispy bacon bits, and fresh chives for that classic "loaded" look.
• Add Crunch: Serve with a side of toasted garlic bread or crispy croutons to add texture to the creamy soup.

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Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe Tips

• Prep in Advance: If you're in a rush, you can peel and chop the potatoes and onions the night before and store them in the refrigerator.
• Use Leftover Baked Potatoes: Got leftover baked potatoes? Use them to make this soup even faster.
• Freeze for Later: This soup freezes beautifully. Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Reheat on the stovetop and add a splash of cream to bring it back to life.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes! While russet potatoes are traditional, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamier texture.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the soup a day in advance. The flavors will meld together even more as it sits. Just reheat it on the stove or in the slow cooker before serving.

3. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

4. What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, crusty bread, or even a sandwich for a full meal.

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Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Soup

This Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it to family on a busy weeknight or enjoying it as a cozy weekend meal, this soup is sure to satisfy. So grab your slow cooker, follow this easy recipe, and get ready to enjoy a rich, creamy bowl of potato goodness!

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