Slow Cooker Loaded Potato soup has been my go-to comfort food for years, especially when the weather turns chilly. I remember the first time I tried making it; the house filled with the most amazing aroma of savory bacon and tender potatoes simmering all day. It felt like a warm hug in a bowl! This recipe is incredibly straightforward, and if you’ve ever wondered how to make slow cooker loaded potato so it’s creamy and packed with flavor, you’re in for a treat. It’s the perfect, fuss-free way to enjoy a hearty slow cooker potato soup that tastes like it simmered on the stove for hours. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Loaded Potato
This recipe is a game-changer for so many reasons:
- Incredible Flavor: It delivers all the comforting, savory goodness of a loaded baked potato in a creamy soup form.
- Minimal Effort: Seriously, it’s an easy slow cooker loaded potato that practically makes itself.
- Quick Prep Time: You only need about 20 minutes of hands-on prep before the slow cooker does the rest.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that are readily available.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore this hearty, satisfying soup.
- Healthier Option: Packed with vegetables and a good source of protein, making it a balanced meal.
- Perfect for Chilly Days: It’s the ultimate cozy comfort food for any cool evening.
- Versatile Meal: This easy slow cooker loaded potato can be a main course or a fantastic side dish.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Loaded Potato
Gathering these slow cooker loaded potato ingredients is the first step to a delicious meal. You’ll need about 4 pounds of Russet potatoes, which are perfect for this soup because they break down nicely to create a creamy texture. Make sure they are peeled and cubed into roughly 1-inch pieces. We’ll also add one large onion, chopped, and four cloves of garlic, minced, to build our flavor base. The broth, either chicken or vegetable, is essential for simmering the potatoes until they’re wonderfully tender. Don’t forget the half-pound of bacon, which should be cooked until crispy and then crumbled – this adds that signature smoky, salty flavor that makes this dish irresistible.
- 4 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed – the creamy base of our soup
- 1 large onion, chopped – for aromatic depth
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – essential for flavor
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth – the liquid for simmering
- 1 cup heavy cream – for luxurious richness
- 1/2 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled – adds smoky, savory goodness
- Salt and pepper to taste – to enhance all the flavors
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for topping – classic cheesy goodness
- Green onions, sliced, for topping – for a fresh, sharp bite
- Sour cream, for topping – adds creaminess and tang
- Chives, chopped, for topping – a delicate onion flavor
How to Make Slow Cooker Loaded Potato
Follow these simple crockpot loaded potato instructions to create a comforting bowl of soup:
- Step 1: Start by prepping your potatoes. Wash and peel about 4 pounds of Russet potatoes, then cut them into uniform 1-inch cubes. This ensures they cook evenly.
- Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté one large chopped onion in a tablespoon of butter or oil until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add four minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute until fragrant. Transfer this aromatic mixture to your slow cooker.
- Step 3: Add the cubed potatoes to the slow cooker with the onions and garlic. Pour in 6 cups of chicken or vegetable broth. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir to combine.
- Step 4: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook. For the best results, cook on the ‘low’ setting for 6-7 hours, or if you’re short on time, you can use the ‘high’ setting for 3-4 hours. The potatoes should be completely tender when done.
- Step 5: Once the potatoes are tender, it’s time to create that creamy texture. You can do this by using an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker, or carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Mash the potatoes to your desired consistency – some like it super smooth, others prefer a bit of texture.
- Step 6: Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and about half a pound of cooked, crumbled bacon. These crockpot loaded potato instructions wouldn’t be complete without this step! Let the soup heat through on low for another 15-30 minutes so the flavors can meld beautifully.
- Step 7: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Now for the fun part – topping! Garnish generously with shredded cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh chives. Enjoy your delicious slow cooker loaded potato!
Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Loaded Potato
Want to elevate your soup game? These tips will ensure your slow cooker loaded potato is absolutely perfect every time. I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that make a huge difference in texture and flavor.
- Don’t skip sautéing the onions and garlic. This step builds a crucial flavor base that raw aromatics just can’t replicate.
- For an even creamier soup, reserve about 2 cups of the cooked potatoes before blending. Mash them separately with the cream, then stir them back in.
- Taste and adjust seasoning *after* adding the cream and bacon, as both add saltiness.
- If you like a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water) at the end and let it simmer for a few minutes. For more on thickening sauces, check out this guide to thickening sauces.
What’s the secret to perfect Slow Cooker Loaded Potato?
The magic happens with the slow cooking process, which tenderizes the potatoes beautifully. For an extra creamy and rich result, I love to blend about half the soup with an immersion blender. This creates a velvety base, and for a truly decadent slow cooker cheesy potato experience, adding a bit of cream cheese along with the heavy cream is divine.
Can I make Slow Cooker Loaded Potato ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! You can prep all the ingredients, including cooking the bacon, and store them separately in the refrigerator. Combine everything in the slow cooker in the morning. It’s also a fantastic slow cooker potato side dish to make the day before and gently reheat on the stove or in the slow cooker on warm. If you enjoy making dishes ahead, you might also like these savory parmesan zucchini muffins.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Loaded Potato?
A common pitfall is using waxy potatoes, which don’t break down well for creaminess. Stick to Russets! Also, avoid over-blending if you prefer some potato chunkiness. For the best loaded baked potato in slow cooker texture, make sure your potatoes are fully tender before mashing.
Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Loaded Potato
This hearty soup is a meal in itself, but it also pairs wonderfully with a few complementary items. For a truly satisfying experience, serve your slow cooker loaded potato soup with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast. These are perfect for dipping into that creamy, flavorful broth. If you’re looking for something a bit heartier, consider serving it alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup. For those who adore that classic combination, a side of chili or even a grilled cheese sandwich makes for a delightful pairing, especially when you’ve got that wonderful slow cooker potato and bacon flavor profile at play. You might also enjoy our garlic bread grilled cheese.
Nutrition Facts for Slow Cooker Loaded Potato
This slow cooker loaded potato recipe is incredibly satisfying, and understanding its nutritional breakdown per serving can help you fit it into your meal plan. Each generous serving offers a good balance of macronutrients, making it a comforting yet reasonably well-rounded dish.
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Fat: Approximately 25g
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 15g
- Protein: Approximately 15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40g
- Fiber: Approximately 5g
- Sugar: Approximately 5g
- Sodium: Approximately 700mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the specific ingredients used in your slow cooker loaded potato. For more information on understanding nutrition labels, you can refer to resources like the FDA’s guide to the Nutrition Facts label.
How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Loaded Potato
Once you’ve enjoyed this delicious slow cooker loaded potato soup, you might have leftovers, and that’s perfectly fine! Proper storage ensures you can savor this comforting meal later. First, let the soup cool down slightly on the counter for about 30 minutes to an hour. Then, transfer the soup into airtight containers. For refrigeration, it will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. If you plan to store it for longer, freezing is a great option. You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, if it was in the fridge, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or pop it in the microwave. If it was frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Understanding what is a slow cooker loaded potato also means knowing how to keep its creamy texture intact during storage and reheating. If you’re looking for other great make-ahead meals, consider our slow cooker garlic butter beef bites and potatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Loaded Potato
Why use a slow cooker for loaded potato soup?
Using a slow cooker for this dish is fantastic because it allows the potatoes to become incredibly tender and infused with flavor with minimal effort. The slow, gentle cooking process breaks down the potatoes beautifully, creating a naturally creamy base without needing much mashing. It’s also a great way to multitask, as the cooker does all the work for you while you go about your day.
What’s the best way to get the creamiest slow cooker loaded potato soup?
To achieve the creamiest texture, I highly recommend using Russet potatoes, as they are starchier and break down more easily. After the initial cooking, use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker to partially or fully blend the soup. For an extra decadent touch, stir in a little cream cheese or an extra splash of heavy cream at the end. This ensures you have the best slow cooker loaded potato experience. You might also enjoy our mashed potato cheese puffs for another potato delight.
Can I add other vegetables to my slow cooker loaded potato?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like chopped carrots, celery, or even some corn kernels along with the potatoes. These additions can boost the nutritional value and add extra layers of flavor and texture to your slow cooker loaded potato. Just make sure they are cut to a similar size so they cook evenly.
How do I make this a slow cooker potato casserole instead of soup?
To turn this into a slow cooker potato casserole, you’ll want to reduce the liquid significantly and perhaps thicken it further. After the potatoes are tender and you’ve mashed them slightly, stir in the cream, bacon, and cheese. Cook uncovered on high for the last 30-60 minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate and the cheese to get bubbly and golden. This method is a wonderful alternative if you’re craving a baked potato feel.
Variations of Slow Cooker Loaded Potato You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic slow cooker loaded potato soup, you might want to explore some exciting variations. These twists can cater to different tastes and dietary needs, offering even more ways to enjoy this comforting dish. For instance, you can transform it into a hearty slow cooker potato casserole by reducing the broth and adding extra cheese, baking it uncovered at the end until golden brown. If you’re leaning towards a richer, more decadent experience, consider making it a crockpot twice baked potato recipe by mashing the potatoes very smooth, stirring in sour cream and cheese, and then topping with more cheese and bacon before a final, quick reheat. For other comforting dishes, check out our pumpkin cobbler.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk for a creamy, dairy-free version.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth. Add sautéed mushrooms or extra vegetables for flavor depth.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños during the last hour of cooking for a bit of heat.
- Loaded Potato Skins Style: Cook the soup until tender, mash partially, then stir in cheese and bacon. Top with more cheese and bake uncovered until bubbly and slightly browned for a casserole-like texture.
Slow Cooker Loaded Potato, Amazing Comfort
- Total Time: 7 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and creamy slow cooker loaded potato soup, perfect for chilly evenings. This easy recipe features tender potatoes, savory bacon, and a rich, creamy broth, all made effortlessly in your slow cooker. Customize with your favorite toppings for a delightful meal.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for topping
- Green onions, sliced, for topping
- Sour cream, for topping
- Chives, chopped, for topping
Instructions
- Wash and peel the Russet potatoes. Cut them into evenly-sized cubes, about 1-inch thick.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped onions in a bit of butter until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker.
- Add the cubed potatoes to the slow cooker along with the broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or immersion blender to your desired creaminess.
- Stir in the heavy cream and crumbled bacon. Heat on low for an additional 15-30 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped chives.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk.
- Add chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
- Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary just before serving.
- Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Use smoked bacon or add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Blend in cream cheese or sour cream at the end for an ultra-rich texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Sugar: Approximately 5g
- Sodium: Approximately 700mg
- Fat: Approximately 25g
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 10g
- Trans Fat: Approximately 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40g
- Fiber: Approximately 5g
- Protein: Approximately 15g
- Cholesterol: Approximately 60mg