Contents
Introduction
If you’re in the mood for a hearty, comforting meal, this Crock Pot Loaded Potato Soup is the perfect choice. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, this soup brings warmth and satisfaction in every bowl. It’s an ideal dish for chilly evenings or lazy weekends, and best of all, it’s easy to make in your slow cooker.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Potatoes – 6 medium-sized, peeled and diced
Onion – 1 large, chopped
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Chicken or vegetable broth – 6 cups
Cream cheese – 8 ounces, softened
Shredded cheddar cheese – 2 cups
Bacon – 6 strips, cooked and crumbled
Green onions – 1/2 cup, chopped
Salt – 1 teaspoon
Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time – 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high
Total Time – 6 hours 15 minutes on low or 3 hours 15 minutes on high
Yield – Serves 6-8 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes for even cooking.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot
Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and onion to the crock pot.
Step 3: Season the Mixture
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper for flavor.
Step 4: Cook in the Crock Pot
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
Step 5: Blend the Soup
Once the potatoes are cooked, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the mixture to a regular blender in batches.
Step 6: Add Creaminess
Stir in the cream cheese and shredded cheese until fully melted and combined into the soup.
Step 7: Adjust Consistency
If the soup is too thick, stir in a bit more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your choice of bacon, green onions, and additional cheese.
Notes
Storage Suggestions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Recommendations
The soup can be frozen in portions for later use; just make sure to leave space in the container for expansion.
Variations
Feel free to add other ingredients such as corn or broccoli for additional flavors and textures.
Vegetarian Option
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of the soup.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the loaded potato soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Slow Cooking
Using a crock pot allows for slow cooking, which helps to develop rich flavors and achieve tender textures in the ingredients, such as potatoes and vegetables.
Layering Ingredients
Layering ingredients in the crock pot ensures even cooking. Start with denser items like potatoes at the bottom and softer items on top to prevent overcooking.
Mixing Flavors
Stirring ingredients together combines flavors effectively. Adding cheese and cream toward the end helps maintain their creamy texture and rich taste.
Adjusting Consistency
You can adjust the soup’s consistency by adding more liquid if it becomes too thick or letting it cook longer if you prefer a thicker texture.
Using Fresh Herbs
Incorporating fresh herbs adds brightness and enhances the overall flavor profile. Adding them at the end of the cooking process preserves their freshness.
FAQ
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Is there a way to make this soup healthier?
You can substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a lighter cream option to reduce fat and calories.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for longer storage.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, corn, or green beans to enhance the nutritional content and flavor.
How do I reheat the soup?
You can reheat the soup on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until it reaches your desired temperature.
Conclusion
The Crock Pot Loaded Potato Soup is a delightful dish that combines comfort and convenience. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it is the perfect meal for busy days or chilly nights. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers the flexibility to customize with your favorite toppings, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with your favorite side, this loaded potato soup is sure to become a staple in your home.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cheesy Broccoli Soup
Add some nutritional value and flavor by incorporating broccoli into your soup. This cheesy broccoli soup pairs well with loaded potato soup, creating a comforting meal.
Homestyle Meatloaf
Serve slices of homestyle meatloaf alongside the loaded potato soup for a hearty, satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.
Garlic Breadsticks
Pair your soup with warm, buttery garlic breadsticks for the perfect dipping experience. The combination elevates mealtime and adds a delicious crunch.
Caesar Salad
Freshen up your meal by adding a crisp Caesar salad. The bright flavors and crisp textures make a fantastic contrast to the creamy potato soup.
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Add some elegance to your meal by serving bacon-wrapped asparagus. This combination not only complements the soup but also introduces a savory and crunchy element to your plate.
