Crockpot Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe: Creamy, Flavorful, and Effortless

 There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, hearty bowl of loaded baked potato soup, especially when it's made effortlessly in a slow cooker.

This Crockpot Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a rich and creamy dish packed with the flavors of baked potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions. Perfect for chilly nights, family dinners, or meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Set it and forget it! Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work.

• Rich and Creamy Texture: With the perfect balance of potatoes, cheese, and cream, every bite is indulgent.

• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like sour cream, extra bacon, or chives to make it your own.

• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores and reheats well, making it a great option for leftovers.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 6 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup whole milk

• 1 cup sour cream

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

For Garnish:

• Additional shredded cheddar cheese

• Extra bacon bits

• Chopped green onions or chives

• Sour cream (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small, even pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and break down well in the soup. Dice the onion and mince the garlic for added flavor.

Step 2: Add to the Crockpot

In your slow cooker, combine the diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika. Stir everything together to distribute the seasonings evenly.

Step 3: Cook on Low

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the potatoes are very tender and can be mashed easily with a fork.

Step 4: Mash or Blend

For a chunkier soup, use a potato masher to break down some of the potatoes while leaving some pieces whole. If you prefer a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to blend until smooth.

Step 5: Add Creamy Ingredients

Stir in the heavy cream, whole milk, and sour cream until well combined. Let the soup warm through for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 6: Melt in Cheese and Bacon

Add in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated into the soup.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra cheese, bacon bits, chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream for the ultimate loaded baked potato soup experience.

Pro Tips for the Best Potato Soup

• Use Russet Potatoes: They break down beautifully in the slow cooker and create a creamy texture.

• Don’t Overbend: If using an immersion blender, be careful not to over-blend or the soup will become too thick and starchy.

• Adjust the Thickness: If the soup is too thick, add more milk or broth until it reaches your desired consistency.

• Make It Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

FAQs

1. Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?

Yes! While russet potatoes are best for a creamy texture, Yukon Gold or red potatoes can also be used for a slightly firmer texture.

2. Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or almond milk, and use dairy-free cheese.

3. How Long Does This Soup Last in the Fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, this soup will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

4. Can I Freeze Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

Yes, but keep in mind that dairy-based soups can sometimes separate when thawed. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat slowly and stir well before serving.

5. What Other Toppings Can I Add?

In addition to cheese, bacon, and green onions, try toppings like croutons, diced ham, hot sauce, or even roasted broccoli for a fun twist.

6. Can I Make This Soup on the Stovetop Instead?

Yes! Simmer the ingredients in a large pot for about 30-40 minutes until the potatoes are soft, then proceed with mashing, adding dairy, and stirring in cheese and bacon.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you're making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or meal prepping for the week, this soup is guaranteed to be a hit. Serve it with crusty bread or a side salad, and enjoy a warm, cozy meal any day of the week!

Give this recipe a try, and let us know how it turns out. Happy cooking!