Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup on a cool evening. This Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup offers a wonderful, creamy texture. It’s a meal that truly hugs you from the inside out. Its savory flavors are incredibly satisfying.

I love making this slow cooker potato soup for my family on busy weeknights. It’s practically a set-it-and-forget-it kind of magic. The leftovers store beautifully, too. You’ll want to make this easy potato soup again and again.

This Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup is a total game-changer for me. It’s ridiculously easy to prepare. I mean, throw everything in the slow cooker and walk away easy!

Why I adore this recipe:

• Effortless weeknight dinners.
• Melt-in-your-mouth, cheesy goodness.
• Pure comfort food bliss.
• Impresses guests with minimal fuss.

It’s a genuinely hearty, satisfying meal. My family always asks for this slow cooker potato soup.

Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup Ingredients

The magic of this Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup truly starts with its simple, wholesome ingredients. It’s a beautiful symphony of creamy, savory, and satisfying flavors. Each component plays a vital role in creating that perfect bowl of comfort.

Core Ingredients:

• Russet Potatoes: These are the heart and soul of our soup. They cook down beautifully and create that signature creamy texture.
• Onion: Adds a foundational aromatic sweetness. It builds depth of flavor from the start.
• Chicken Broth: Provides the savory liquid base. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Cream Cheese: This is the secret weapon for ultimate creaminess. It makes the soup incredibly rich and smooth.
• Milk and Sour Cream: These dairy powerhouses enhance the creamy texture. They also add a slight tanginess.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Brings that essential cheesy flavor. Plus, it’s perfect for melting right into the soup.
• Bacon Bits: For that irresistible smoky, savory crunch. They’re the perfect salty counterbalance.
• Chives/Green Onions: These fresh herbs add a bright, zesty finish. They also bring a pop of color.

Seasoning Basics:

Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme work together beautifully. They build layers of savory goodness throughout the soup.

Substitutions and Tips:

• Dairy Alternatives: Heavy cream can replace milk for extra richness. Lactose-free cream cheese works well too. If you’re dairy-free, explore cashew cream or dairy-free cream cheese alternatives.
• Broth Choice: Low-sodium broth is a great option. This allows you to control the saltiness more precisely. You can also use vegetable broth to make this a vegetarian dish.
• Herb Swaps: Parsley can be used instead of or along with chives. Feel free to experiment with your favorite fresh herbs.
• Texture Play: For a chunkier soup, mash fewer potatoes. If you prefer it smoother, use an immersion blender longer.
• Flavor Boost: A tiny pinch of nutmeg can surprisingly enhance the creamy flavors. A dash of smoked paprika adds another dimension.

Remember, exact measurements are in the printable recipe card below!

How to Make Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup

Step 1: Load the Slow Cooker

First, gather your ingredients. Place cubed potatoes into your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion too. Pour in the chicken broth next. Season everything with salt. Add black pepper and garlic powder. Finally, sprinkle in the dried thyme. Your slow cooker is ready for action now. This easy potato soup is starting its journey.

Step 2: Cook Until Tender

Cover your slow cooker securely. Cook on the LOW setting. You’ll want to let it cook for 6 to 8 hours. Alternatively, use the HIGH setting. That will take about 3 to 4 hours. The goal is for the potatoes to be very tender. This ensures a creamy base for your delicious soup.

Step 3: Mash for Creaminess

Once the potatoes are tender, it’s time to create texture. Use a potato masher. Gently mash some of the potatoes. You can also use an immersion blender. Blend just enough to thicken the soup. Leave some potato chunks intact. This adds wonderful texture to the Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup. It makes it extra hearty.

Step 4: Stir in Creamy Goodness

Now for the truly decadent part. Add the softened cream cheese. Stir it into the hot soup. Keep stirring until it’s completely melted. The mixture will become luxuriously smooth. This step is key to that signature creamy potato soup texture.

Step 5: Add Dairy and Cheese

Next, whisk in the milk. Add the sour cream next. Stir until everything is well combined. Make sure there are no lumps. Then, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Add the cooked bacon bits now. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and gooey. This makes your slow cooker potato soup incredibly cheesy.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

This is an important step, always! Taste your soup carefully. Does it need more salt? Perhaps a bit more pepper? Adjust seasonings as needed. Ensure the flavors are just right for your taste buds. A perfectly seasoned Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup is a joy.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the piping hot Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup into bowls. Now for the fun part: garnishes! Sprinkle on extra shredded cheddar cheese. Add more crispy bacon bits. Finally, top with fresh chopped chives or green onions. Serve your amazing easy potato soup immediately. Enjoy every warm spoonful!

How to Store Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup

Leftover Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup stores beautifully. For refrigerator storage, let the soup cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to 3 days. Freezing isn’t ideal. Dairy can sometimes separate when thawed. Reheat gently on the stovetop. Stir often. You can also use the microwave. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!

Tips for Success

• Use starchy potatoes like Russets. They break down best.
• Don’t over-mash the potatoes. Keep some chunks.
• Soften cream cheese first. It melts smoother.
• Taste and adjust seasoning at the end.
• Fresh herbs make a big difference.
• Adjust broth for desired thickness.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• A 6-quart or larger slow cooker is essential.
• A potato masher works well.
• An immersion blender makes mashing easy.
• A good knife is helpful for chopping.
• Measuring cups and spoons ensure accuracy.
• Ladle for serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty dinner rolls.
• A simple green salad is a nice contrast.
• Offer a side of cornbread.
• Pair with a crisp apple cider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can! You can prepare most of the soup and refrigerate it before the final dairy and cheese additions. Reheat gently on the stovetop, then stir in the cream cheese, milk, sour cream, and cheddar cheese until smooth and melted. This creamy potato soup is perfect for meal prep.

What can I use if I don’t have an immersion blender for mashing potatoes?

No worries! You can use a regular potato masher for a chunkier soup. For a smoother texture, carefully transfer a portion of the cooked potatoes and broth to a standard blender. Blend until mostly smooth, then return it to the slow cooker. This ensures your easy potato soup has the texture you love.

Is it okay to add different vegetables to this slow cooker potato soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with adding other vegetables. Carrots or celery can be added with the potatoes in the beginning. Broccoli florets are great added during the last hour of cooking. This makes your Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup even more versatile.

Print