Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup

Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup is one of those recipes that just feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine coming home after a long day and being greeted by the rich, savory aroma of seasoned potatoes, melted cheese, and crispy bacon wafting through the house. It’s the kind of comfort food that doesn’t just fill your belly, but also warms your soul. Cooking it slow in a crockpot means you can toss all the ingredients in and let the magic happen without hovering over the stove. This soup is creamy, hearty, and super satisfying, ensuring everyone at your table leaves happy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a hearty lunch, this soup is great for the whole family. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s get ready to make some mouthwatering Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup that is sure to impress!

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

Why This Recipe Works

Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup is truly a remarkable dish. It cooks slowly, allowing the flavors of the ingredients to meld beautifully. The slow cooker makes this possible, meaning you can set it and forget it, while your home fills with the comforting aroma of simmering potatoes, cheese, and savory meats. Each spoonful delivers a creamy, hearty experience that embodies the essence of comfort food.

Using simple, fresh ingredients also ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, the convenience of the crockpot means you can easily prepare dinner even on the busiest of days. As the potatoes soften, they meld into the creamy base, creating a velvety texture that’s just so inviting.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for those chilly evenings or family gatherings where everyone craves something hot and soothing. The combination of crispy bacon, savory ham, and rich cheddar cheese makes each bite utterly indulgent. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly simple to prepare. You won’t find yourself spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re a cooking novice or a seasoned pro, this soup is easy to whip up. It requires minimal prep time, and you can easily adapt it to please even the pickiest eaters in your family. Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that can simmer away while you attend to other things?

Ingredients

To make this divine Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 6 russet potatoes (about 7 cups chopped)
• 1 onion, chopped (about 1½ cups)
• 16 oz diced ham
• 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
• 1 can chicken broth (14.5 oz)
• 1½ cups water
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 16 oz bacon slices, cooked and crumbled
• Sliced green onions for garnish (optional)

These ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavors in your bowl.

Preparing Your Loaded Potato Soup

Wash, Peel, and Dice the Potatoes

Start by washing, peeling, and chopping the russet potatoes into bite-sized pieces. This step is crucial for ensuring even cooking and a smooth texture, which makes the soup even more enjoyable.

Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Now it’s time to bring everything together. Place the diced potatoes at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add in the chopped onion, diced ham, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, water, minced garlic, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine. This is where the magic begins!

Cook Until Tender

Set your crockpot to low and let it cook for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You want those potatoes to become tender and soak up all the delicious flavors. The longer it cooks, the better it will taste!

Add Cheese and Thicken

In the last hour of cooking, add 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. What’s a loaded potato soup without cheese? In a small bowl, whisk the flour and milk together until smooth, then pour this mixture into the crockpot. Stir well and cover again. This step thickens the soup and makes it velvety.

Serve and Garnish

Once the cooking time is complete, ladle the soup into bowls and top it with the remaining cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and optional sliced green onions. Dig into this warm, hearty delight!

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Loaded Potato Soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad. It’s also fantastic alongside grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal combo. Just imagine the crispy, buttery bread meeting the creamy soup!

Tips for Success

• Choose russet potatoes for the best texture; they become wonderfully creamy when cooked.
• For a veggie twist, consider adding broccoli or carrots. They enhance the flavors and add nutrients, making the dish even better.
• Adjust the amount of bacon and cheese to suit your tastes. Sometimes extra cheese makes everything better!

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: If you want to keep it meat-free, substitute the ham and bacon with mushrooms or a vegetable-based broth. They can add a unique depth of flavor.
• Spicy Twist: If you’re feeling adventurous, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat!
• Lower Fat Version: To lighten things up, use low-fat cheese and reduced-sodium broth without sacrificing taste.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, reheat on the stove with a little added milk to help restore that creamy consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze Loaded Potato Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Just store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, so you can enjoy it later.

2. How do I reheat the soup?
Reheat on the stove over medium heat. If it’s looking a bit thick, add a splash of milk for that creamy goodness, or microwave in 1-minute increments.

3. Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Pepper Jack. They can offer different flavors and textures.

4. Is there a substitute for cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can use cream of mushroom soup or even a homemade cream sauce for a similar texture.

5. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Simply replace the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour alternative to thicken the soup.

Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup serves as an invitation to warm both your home and your heart with the delightful aroma of comfort food. Whether you enjoy it on a cold winter night or during a cozy family gathering, this soup highlights the joy of sharing good food and cherished moments. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, this dish is bound to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection for years to come.

Print