Loaded Potato Soup Slow Cooker Recipe (Guide)

Oh, let me tell you-there’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm, creamy, loaded potato soup, especially on a chilly day. And the best part? You don’t have to hover over the stove for hours. Enter the slow cooker, your magical kitchen sidekick. With just a little prep in the morning, you can come home to a bubbling, creamy, savory soup that feels like a big, cozy hug.

Loaded potato soup isn’t just about potatoes (though, let’s be honest, they are the star). It’s about the symphony of flavors that come together-the smokiness of bacon, the richness of cheese, the freshness of green onions, and the creamy, dreamy broth that ties it all together. If you’ve been searching for that go-to soup recipe that’s easy, versatile, and ridiculously satisfying, you’re in the right place.

Loaded Potato Soup Slow Cooker Recipe

This slow cooker loaded potato soup recipe is simple, forgiving, and utterly delicious. It’s the kind of recipe you can tweak to your heart’s desire while still turning out a hearty, comforting meal. You’ll have a rich, creamy soup brimming with chunks of tender potatoes, a cheesy embrace, and all the toppings you can dream of-without even standing over a hot stove for hours.

Ingredient List

Here’s everything you’ll need for a classic loaded potato soup. I’ve broken it down so it’s super clear and easy to prep:

• Potatoes: 5-6 medium-sized russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced (optional, but highly recommended for that extra depth of flavor)
• Chicken broth: 4 cups (vegetable broth works perfectly for a vegetarian version)
• Heavy cream: 1 cup (or half-and-half for a slightly lighter soup)
• Cheddar cheese: 1-1.5 cups shredded (sharp or mild, depending on your preference)
• Bacon: 6 slices, cooked and crumbled (optional but oh-so-good)
• Butter: 2 tablespoons
• Salt and pepper: to taste
• Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped green onions, extra cheese, crispy bacon, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for flair

Instruction Guide

Let’s dive into the ’how-to’ part. I promise it’s simpler than it sounds. Follow along step by step:

1. Prep Your Ingredients

   • Peel and dice your potatoes.
   • Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
   • Cook and crumble the bacon, if using.

2. Combine In Slow Cooker

   • Place diced potatoes, onions, and garlic in the slow cooker.
   • Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, add butter, and season lightly with salt and pepper.

3. Cook Low And Slow

   • Set your slow cooker to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
   • You want the potatoes tender and easily mashed with a fork.

4. Blend For Creaminess (optional)

   • If you prefer a smooth soup, use an immersion blender to blend until creamy, leaving a few chunks for texture.
   • For a chunkier style, simply mash a few potatoes inside the slow cooker with a potato masher.

5. Add The Finishing Touches

   • Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
   • Let the cheese melt fully before serving.

6. Serve And Garnish

   • Ladle into bowls and top with crumbled bacon, green onions, extra cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.

Ingredient Swaps

Here’s where you can get creative or accommodate dietary needs without losing any deliciousness:

• Potatoes: Swap russets for Yukon gold for a creamier texture, or red potatoes for a slightly firmer bite.
• Cheese: Try gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a twist on the flavor profile.
• Cream: Coconut milk or oat cream can make this soup dairy-free.
• Bacon: Use smoked tempeh or mushroom bacon for a vegetarian-friendly alternative.
• Broth: Vegetable broth works just as well as chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

Helpful Tips

These little nuggets of wisdom can take your soup from good to restaurant-quality:

• Don’t over-peel potatoes: Leaving a bit of skin adds texture and nutrients.
• Cook bacon separately: This ensures it stays crispy when used as a topping.
• Layer your flavors: Sauté onions and garlic in butter before adding to the slow cooker for a deeper flavor.
• Avoid curdling: Add cream and cheese at the end of cooking on low heat, never high, to keep it silky.
• Make ahead: Soup can be made a day in advance; flavors often deepen overnight.

Customization Ideas

Turn your loaded potato soup into your own signature masterpiece:

• Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
• Herbal Notes: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives elevate the flavor.
• Protein Boost: Stir in cooked chicken, sausage, or ham for a heartier meal.
• Crunch Factor: Top with roasted onions, croutons, or crispy fried shallots.
• Cheesy Explosion: Layer multiple cheese types for a more complex flavor.

FAQs

Can I Make Loaded Potato Soup In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, loaded potato soup is ideal for slow cooking. The slow cooker allows the potatoes, onions, and other ingredients to cook evenly and develop rich flavors over several hours without constant supervision.

What Type Of Potatoes Work Best For Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Soup?

Russet potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes are the best choice. Russets break down slightly to thicken the soup, while Yukon Golds maintain a creamier, more structured texture.

Do I Need To Pre-cook The Potatoes Before Adding Them To The Slow Cooker?

No, you can add raw, diced potatoes directly to the slow cooker. The long, slow cooking process ensures they become tender and absorb the flavors of the soup.

Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian Or Vegan?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and replace cheese, cream, or bacon with plant-based alternatives such as vegan cheese, non-dairy cream, or smoked tempeh for a vegan version.

How Long Should I Cook Loaded Potato Soup In A Slow Cooker?

Typically, cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the flavors are well combined.

Can I Use Frozen Potatoes Instead Of Fresh?

Yes, but frozen potatoes may release extra water as they cook, potentially thinning the soup. Adjust by slightly reducing the liquid in the recipe or mashing some of the potatoes to thicken it.

How Do I Make The Soup Creamy Without Using Heavy Cream?

You can use alternatives such as half-and-half, evaporated milk, Greek yogurt, or blended potatoes to achieve a creamy texture without heavy cream.

Can I Prepare This Soup Ahead Of Time And Reheat It?

Yes, loaded potato soup reheats well. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.

Should I Add Toppings Before Or After Slow Cooking?

Toppings like shredded cheese, crispy bacon, green onions, or sour cream should be added after slow cooking to maintain their texture and flavor.

Can I Freeze Loaded Potato Soup?

Yes, it can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly. Freeze in portions without toppings or cream. Reheat slowly on the stove and stir in dairy ingredients after thawing to restore creaminess.