Slow Cooker Baked Potato Soup
Craving a warm and comforting bowl of soup?
This slow cooker baked potato soup recipe is just the thing. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have a deliciously creamy and hearty soup.
Let your slow cooker do the work as you savor the rich flavors of tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheese.
Enjoy a bowl of pure comfort.
Origins
Tracing the origins of this slow cooker baked potato soup, one finds it rooted in the comforting American comfort food.
The classic baked potato is an iconic dish served in many American households, and the idea to turn it into a soup was a novel culinary idea.
By blending the flavors of the baked potato with creamy broth and various toppings, a delicious and new dish was created.
This soup gained popularity quickly, becoming a go-to family recipe for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Nowadays, slow cooker baked potato soup is greatly enjoyed and remains a favorite choice for those wanting a taste of American comfort food.
Ingredients
To make this slow cooker baked potato soup, you’ll require a few necessary items. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Potatoes: Select 4 large russet potatoes for a creamy texture.
- Bacon: Crumble and cook it before adding it to the slow cooker for a smoky flavor.
- Onion and Garlic: Sauté them in a pan to add more flavor to the soup.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth for the base.
- Sour Cream and Cheddar Cheese: These ingredients make the soup creamy and rich.
- Green Onions: Chop them and sprinkle on top for garnish.
Instructions
Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly, then poke them with a fork to allow steam to escape while cooking.
Place the potatoes in the slow cooker along with the diced onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, and seasonings. Give it a good stir.
Set the slow cooker on low heat and cook for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
Once the potatoes are cooked, remove them from the slow cooker and mash them using a potato masher or fork.
Return the mashed potatoes to the slow cooker, add in the heavy cream and shredded cheese, and stir until well combined.
Let the soup cook for an additional 15-20 minutes on low heat until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
Serve the soup hot and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as bacon bits, chives, or sour cream.
Enjoy your homemade slow cooker baked potato soup!
Tips for Cooking
Make sure to carefully wash and scrub the potatoes before putting them in the slow cooker. This will help take away any dirt or debris on the skin. Once the potatoes are clean, you can start the recipe. Here are some extra tips to bear in mind when preparing this tasty soup:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use the right potatoes | Select starchy potatoes like Russets, as they will break down and thicken the soup nicely. |
| Cut the potatoes evenly | This guarantees they cook at the same rate and leads to a more consistent texture. |
| Don’t overcook the soup | The slow cooker is convenient, be careful not to leave the soup in for too long, as the potatoes can become mushy. |
| Adjust the seasoning | Test the soup prior to serving and add salt, pepper, or any other seasonings to your liking. |
| Garnish with your favorites | Top the soup with toppings like shredded cheese, bacon bits, or chives for an extra burst of flavor. |
These tips will help you make a delicious and nourishing slow cooker baked potato soup. Enjoy!
Final Thoughts
After following these tips for cooking, you can create a delicious and nourishing slow cooker baked potato soup.
The slow cooker method allows the flavors to blend together, resulting in a rich and creamy soup that’s sure to please your taste buds.
The convenience of using a slow cooker means that you can set it and forget it, freeing you up to get on with your day while the soup cooks away.
The aroma that fills your home as the soup simmers is sure to entice you.
And the best part? Leftovers! This soup reheats nicely, making it a great choice for lunch the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Calories Are in a Serving of Slow Cooker Baked Potato Soup?
You asked about the calorie content of a serving of Slow Cooker Baked Potato Soup. Unfortunately, I don’t have that information. It might be worth doing some research online to find out.
Can This Recipe Be Made Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegetarian or vegan by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and substituting dairy products with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan cheese. To make this recipe vegetarian or vegan, simply swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and replace the dairy products with plant-based alternatives. With these simple changes, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy vegetarian or vegan meal.
How Long Does It Take to Cook the Potatoes in the Slow Cooker?
It typically takes 4-6 hours to cook potatoes in a slow cooker. Ensure they are soft enough to mash before stirring in the other ingredients for the soup. Following these steps will ensure your potatoes are cooked perfectly.
Can I Freeze the Leftover Soup for Later?
Yes, you can freeze the leftover soup for later. Be sure to let it cool down completely before putting it in a freezer-safe container. It should stay good for up to 3 months.
Can I Substitute Sweet Potatoes for Regular Potatoes in This Recipe?
Yes, you can swap sweet potatoes for regular potatoes in this recipe. They will provide a slightly unique flavor, but the outcome should still be scrumptious. Make sure to adjust the cooking time if needed.
