Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like coming home to the smell of my slow cooker creamy potato bacon soup wafting through the house on a chilly day! I remember the first time I made this soup; it was a rainy Sunday, and I had a bunch of potatoes that needed to be used up. I threw everything in the slow cooker, and as the hours passed, I could hardly wait to dig in. When I finally took that first spoonful, it was like a warm hug on a cold day! The creamy texture, the savory bacon, and the comforting potatoes—pure bliss. This soup is not just a meal; it’s a cozy experience that brings everyone together around the table. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up. Just toss the ingredients in your slow cooker, let them mingle, and voilà! You’ve got a hearty, filling dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to cozy up with this soup time and time again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Oh my goodness, where do I even start? This slow cooker creamy potato bacon soup is everything you could ever want in a cozy dish! First off, it’s hearty and fulfilling—every spoonful is like a warm embrace. Trust me, after a long day, there’s nothing better than curling up with a big bowl of this comforting goodness.
What really makes this soup a winner is how easy it is to prepare. I mean, you literally just chop some veggies, toss them in the slow cooker, and let it do its magic while you go about your day. It’s perfect for meal prep, too! I love making a big batch on the weekend and having leftovers to enjoy all week. It saves me from those last-minute dinner scrambles, and who doesn’t love that?
Plus, it’s the ultimate comfort food for family gatherings. Picture this: a chilly evening, your loved ones gathered around the table, laughter echoing as everyone digs into this creamy, dreamy soup. It creates such a warm atmosphere, and I guarantee it’ll become a staple in your home. So, if you’re looking for a dish that’s not just food but a whole experience, this is it! You’ll be making it again and again, trust me!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Creamy Potato Bacon Soup
Alright, let’s gather everything you need for this delicious bowl of warmth! Here’s what you’ll need to create my slow cooker creamy potato bacon soup:
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
These ingredients come together to create a creamy, dreamy masterpiece that you’ll absolutely love. Don’t worry if you don’t have everything on hand; feel free to get creative with what you have! Just remember, the key is to keep it simple and delicious. Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Slow Cooker Creamy Potato Bacon Soup
Now, let’s dive into the magic of making this slow cooker creamy potato bacon soup! It’s super straightforward, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly it comes together. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
First things first, let’s get those veggies ready! Peel and dice the 6 medium potatoes into bite-sized pieces. You want them to be even so they cook uniformly. Then, chop up the onion. I love using a sharp knife for this part—it makes the process so much smoother! If you’ve got a little tear in your eye from the onion, don’t worry, it’s all part of the fun!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Grab your trusty slow cooker and add the diced potatoes and chopped onion right in there. Next up, sprinkle in the crumbled bacon—oh, the smell is already divine! Then pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth, which will give the soup its rich base. Make sure everything is nicely combined; it’s like a cozy hug for your ingredients!
Step 3: Season and Cook
Now it’s time to season things up! Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and then add salt and pepper to taste. I usually start with a pinch of each and then adjust later. Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Just let it do its thing while you go about your day. The aroma will fill your home—trust me, it’s heavenly!
Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
When your cooking time is up, it’s time for the grand finale! Stir in the 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese just before serving. This is where the magic happens, turning your soup into a creamy, dreamy delight. Give it a good stir until everything is melted and combined. Now you’re ready to ladle it into bowls and enjoy every luscious spoonful!
Tips for Success
Let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure your slow cooker creamy potato bacon soup turns out absolutely perfect every time!
- Adjust Seasoning: Everyone’s taste buds are different, so don’t be shy about adjusting the seasoning to your liking! Start with a little salt and pepper, then taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
- Top it Off: For an extra special touch, why not top each bowl with more crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese? It adds a delightful crunch and enhances that cheesy goodness!
- Make it Ahead: This soup is great for meal prep! You can make a big batch, let it cool, and store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to a week. It just gets better with time!
- Freezing Instructions: If you want to save some for later, this soup freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave!
- Try Different Toppings: Get creative! Consider adding fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color and flavor, or a dollop of sour cream for creaminess. The options are endless!
With these tips, you’re all set to whip up a bowl of cozy comfort that everyone will love. Enjoy the process and happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk numbers! I always find it helpful to know what’s in my delicious creations, and this slow cooker creamy potato bacon soup is no exception. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use. But knowing this info can help you make informed decisions while you enjoy each creamy, savory spoonful of this delightful soup! Happy eating!
FAQ Section
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! One of the best things about my slow cooker creamy potato bacon soup is that it’s perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch and let it cool before storing it in the fridge. It keeps well for up to a week, and the flavors only get better as it sits. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to dig in!
How can I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is super simple! Just transfer any remaining soup into an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for about 5 to 7 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Let it cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. I recommend labeling them with the date so you remember when you made it. It can be frozen for up to three months!
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you’re looking to substitute bacon, there are some great options! For a vegetarian twist, you could use smoked paprika or liquid smoke to give that smoky flavor without the meat. If you still want a bit of that savory bite, try adding sautéed mushrooms or a bit of tempeh bacon. For a healthier option, turkey bacon works nicely too! Just choose what fits your dietary preferences, and you’ll still end up with a delicious soup!
Serving Suggestions
Oh, the joy of serving my slow cooker creamy potato bacon soup! It’s not just a dish; it’s a whole experience that deserves the perfect accompaniments. Trust me, you’ll want to elevate your soup game with these delightful side options!
First up, you can’t go wrong with a big chunk of crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping and soaking up all that creamy goodness. I love a nice warm baguette or some rustic sourdough—just slice it up and watch it disappear!
If you’re in the mood for something fresh, I highly recommend a simple green salad. A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette perfectly balances the richness of the soup. It adds a refreshing crunch that complements the creamy texture beautifully!
And let’s not forget about garnishes! Top each bowl with some extra crumbled bacon, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar, or even a dollop of sour cream for a little extra indulgence. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley add a burst of color and flavor, making your soup look as good as it tastes!
So gather your loved ones, serve up this cozy soup with these delightful sides, and enjoy a warm, comforting meal together. It’s the perfect way to create lasting memories around the table!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing my slow cooker creamy potato bacon soup properly is key to enjoying those cozy flavors even later on! If you’ve got leftovers (which I hope you do because it’s so good!), here’s how to keep it fresh:
First, let the soup cool down to room temperature. Once it’s cooled, transfer it into an airtight container. I like to use glass containers because they don’t hold onto odors and are easy to clean. Make sure to seal it tightly and pop it into the fridge. It should stay fresh for about 5 to 7 days, so you can enjoy it throughout the week!
If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a fantastic option! Just pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. I usually label them with the date, so I know when I made it. It can be frozen for up to three months, perfect for quick future meals!
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, the reheating process is super simple! If it’s frozen, you’ll want to thaw it overnight in the fridge. For reheating, I recommend warming it up gently on the stove over medium heat. Just stir it occasionally, and you’ll see that creamy texture come right back to life!
If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Pour it into a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure it warms evenly. Just watch out for hot spots—nobody likes a burned tongue!
With these tips, your slow cooker creamy potato bacon soup will taste just as delightful the next time you dive in. Enjoy every last spoonful!
Print
Slow Cooker Creamy Potato Bacon Soup: 6 Cozy Servings to Love
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty slow cooker creamy potato bacon soup that warms you up.
Ingredients
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Place the diced potatoes and chopped onion in the slow cooker.
- Add the crumbled bacon and chicken broth.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cheese before serving.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Top with extra bacon and cheese if desired.
- This soup can be frozen for later use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: slow cooker creamy potato bacon soup