Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with this incredibly easy Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Soup recipe. Imagine a bowl brimming with creamy, hearty goodness, perfectly capturing all the beloved flavors of a classic baked potato, but in a soul-warming soup format. This recipe brings together tender potatoes, crispy bacon, tangy sour cream, a unique blend of ranch seasoning, and a generous topping of shredded cheese for a truly irresistible dish. Whether you call it a crockpot potato soup or simply a loaded potato soup, this one-pot wonder promises minimal effort and maximum flavor, making it an instant family favorite.
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Table of Contents
The Allure of Loaded Potato Soup
There’s something inherently comforting about a bowl of rich, creamy potato soup, especially when it’s “loaded” with all your favorite fixings. This slow cooker rendition takes that comfort to a whole new level of ease and flavor. Imagine coming home to the savory aroma of potatoes, bacon, and aromatic vegetables simmering gently, ready to transform into a thick, luxurious soup with minimal effort. It’s the perfect antidote to a chilly evening or a busy weeknight when you crave something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Our recipe ensures a smooth, creamy base bursting with the salty, smoky goodness of bacon, the tang of sour cream, and the distinctive herbaceous kick of ranch seasoning, all crowned with melted cheese. It’s truly a taste of a gourmet baked potato, reimagined as a spoonable masterpiece.
Choosing the Perfect Potatoes for Your Soup
The foundation of any great potato soup begins with the right type of potato. While many varieties can work, some lend themselves better to achieving that desirable creamy texture and rich body. For this slow cooker loaded potato soup, I highly recommend using russet potatoes. Their high starch content makes them ideal for breaking down during the long cooking process, creating a naturally thick and velvety soup base. When mashed or pureed slightly, they contribute significantly to the soup’s luxurious consistency.
However, don’t feel limited! Yukon Gold potatoes are another fantastic choice. They offer a buttery flavor and a slightly waxy texture that holds up well while still becoming tender. If you prefer a soup with a bit more texture and less starchiness, red potatoes can be used, though they might not thicken the soup as much as russets. A common question is whether to peel the potatoes. For this recipe, I usually peel the russet potatoes to ensure a smoother soup, but if you enjoy the rustic charm and added nutrients of potato skins, feel free to leave them on. Just make sure to scrub them thoroughly before dicing!
Essential Vegetables for a Flavorful Potato Soup
While potatoes are the star, a trio of aromatic vegetables forms the backbone of flavor for this loaded potato soup: carrots, celery, and onions. These classic mirepoix vegetables sautéed (or in this case, slow-cooked) create a depth of flavor that complements the richness of the potatoes and dairy. Carrots add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color, celery contributes a subtle earthy note, and onions provide a foundational savory base.
The beauty of this slow cooker recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with other vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Bell peppers can add a mild, sweet crunch, while leeks offer a more delicate onion flavor. A handful of corn kernels can introduce a burst of sweetness and texture. Ultimately, any veggies you enjoy will work beautifully in this soup, contributing not only flavor but also important vitamins and fiber, making this comfort food a little healthier.
The Secret to Extraordinary Flavor: Spices and Seasoning
What truly elevates this slow cooker loaded potato soup from good to unforgettable is the clever use of seasoning, particularly the ranch seasoning. While many potato soups rely on standard salt and pepper, adding ranch seasoning infuses the soup with a complex, savory, and tangy profile that perfectly mimics the taste of a fully loaded baked potato. It brings notes of garlic, onion, dill, and chives, eliminating the need for a long list of individual spices.
I absolutely love using my Homemade Ranch Seasoning for this recipe because it allows for customization and ensures the freshest, most potent flavor. However, a good quality store-bought ranch seasoning will also work wonderfully. Beyond the ranch, remember to season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Tasting and adjusting these foundational seasonings throughout the cooking process is key to a perfectly balanced soup. Don’t be afraid to add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder if you want to enhance those flavors further.
How to Make the Ultimate Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Soup
Creating this rich and creamy loaded potato soup in your slow cooker is incredibly straightforward, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal hands-on time. The beauty of the slow cooker is that it tenderizes the potatoes and melds all the flavors together beautifully, developing a depth that’s hard to achieve with quicker methods. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the simple steps:
Step-by-Step Guide
- Combine Ingredients: Begin by adding your prepared potatoes (peeled and cubed, as discussed), chopped celery, carrots, onions, minced garlic, cooked and crumbled bacon, chicken or vegetable broth, ranch seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste into the slow cooker. Give everything a good stir to ensure the ingredients are well distributed and coated with seasoning. The broth should just barely cover the potatoes to ensure they cook evenly and the soup doesn’t become too thin.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover your slow cooker and let the magic happen. Cook on high for 3-4 hours, or on low for 6-7 hours. The longer, slower cook time on the low setting often yields a more tender potato and a richer flavor, but both methods will result in a delicious soup. The goal is for the potatoes to be fork-tender and easily mashable.
- Introduce Creaminess: Once the cooking time is complete and the potatoes are tender, open the slow cooker. This is the moment to transform your hearty potato and vegetable mixture into a truly creamy soup. Stir in the sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier and lighter option) and half and half (or heavy cream for an even richer texture).
- Thicken and Serve: Continue to stir gently until the dairy products are fully incorporated and the soup visibly thickens. If you prefer an extra thick soup, you can lightly mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot with a spoon or use a potato masher directly in the slow cooker. For an ultra-creamy, chunk-free soup, you could use an immersion blender at this stage, or carefully transfer portions to a regular blender (blending in batches and exercising caution with hot liquids). Once the desired consistency is reached, taste and adjust any seasonings one last time before serving hot.
Ideal Cook Time for Tender Potatoes
One of the many advantages of using a slow cooker for this loaded potato soup is its forgiving nature when it comes to cook times. For best results and perfectly tender potatoes that effortlessly melt in your mouth, you’ll want to cook the soup on High for 3-4 hours or on Low for 6-7 hours. The exact time can vary slightly depending on your specific slow cooker model, the size of your potato chunks, and how soft you prefer your potatoes.
When cooking on high, the liquid will reach a simmer quicker, speeding up the cooking process. On the other hand, cooking on low for an extended period allows for a more gradual cooking, which often results in deeper flavor development and a more consistent texture throughout the soup. Regardless of the setting, always ensure that the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork before proceeding to the final steps. This tenderness is crucial for achieving that signature creamy consistency once the dairy is added.
Achieving the Perfect Creamy Texture: How to Thicken Your Soup
A truly satisfying loaded potato soup is defined by its rich, creamy texture. In this recipe, the primary thickeners and contributors to the luscious mouthfeel are sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt) and half and half (or heavy cream). These dairy ingredients are added towards the end of the cooking process to prevent curdling and to ensure they blend seamlessly into the hot soup.
The starch released from the russet potatoes as they cook also plays a significant role in naturally thickening the soup. For an even thicker consistency, once the potatoes are tender, you can use a potato masher or a sturdy spoon to gently mash some of the potatoes directly in the slow cooker. This releases more starch and creates a heartier, more rustic texture. If you prefer a completely smooth and uniform soup, an immersion blender can be used directly in the pot. Alternatively, for those who prefer to avoid dairy or are looking for additional thickening methods, a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with a small amount of cold water or broth) can be stirred in during the final stages, heating until it reaches the desired thickness. Just remember to add dairy after any starchy thickeners to ensure the best results.
Elevate Your Bowl: Soup Topping Ideas
The “loaded” in loaded potato soup isn’t just about the flavors cooked in, but also about the incredible array of toppings that can transform each bowl into a personalized masterpiece. These garnishes add not only visual appeal but also layers of texture and flavor that truly complete the experience. Here are some fantastic ideas to elevate your slow cooker loaded potato soup:
- Crumbled Bacon: A classic for a reason! Extra crispy bacon bits provide a salty, smoky crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
- Shredded Cheese: A generous sprinkle of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite melting cheeses adds a rich, gooey finish.
- Green Onions (Scallions): Finely chopped green onions offer a mild, fresh oniony bite and a vibrant green color, cutting through the richness.
- Croutons: Crispy garlic or herb croutons contribute a satisfying crunch and a delightful textural contrast.
- Fresh Dill: A scattering of fresh dill brings a bright, herbaceous note that complements the potato and ranch flavors beautifully.
- Parsley: Fresh chopped parsley offers a mild, clean flavor and a pop of color, acting as a versatile garnish.
- Sour Cream or Plain Greek Yogurt: A final dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds another layer of creamy tanginess and cools the palate.
- Chives: Similar to green onions but milder, finely snipped chives add a delicate onion flavor and elegant presentation.
- Jalapeños: For those who love a bit of heat, thinly sliced fresh or pickled jalapeños can add a fiery kick.
- Hot Sauce: A dash or two of your favorite hot sauce can introduce a zesty, spicy dimension to your bowl.
Meal Prep Made Easy: Storing Leftovers
This slow cooker loaded potato soup is so delicious, you might not have many leftovers, but if you do, they store wonderfully for quick meals throughout the week. To ensure maximum freshness and food safety, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Once cooled, seal it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. It will maintain its quality and delicious flavor for 3-4 days. This makes it an excellent option for meal prepping, as you can enjoy a hearty, homemade lunch or dinner simply by reheating a portion.
Reheating for Maximum Enjoyment
Reheating your leftover slow cooker loaded potato soup is simple and quick. You have a couple of convenient options:
Microwave: For individual servings, transfer the desired amount of soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through to your desired temperature. Be sure to stir well after reheating, as the dairy components can sometimes separate slightly upon cooling and reheating.
Stovetop: For larger quantities, or if you prefer a more even reheat, pour the soup into a pot or saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s hot and simmering gently. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge, you can add a splash of chicken broth, vegetable broth, or milk to reach your preferred consistency. Stirring helps to reincorporate any separated dairy and ensure a smooth texture.
Freezing Tips for Future Cravings
Freezing homemade soup is a fantastic way to extend its shelf life and have comforting meals ready in a flash. While this slow cooker loaded potato soup freezes well, it’s important to note that dairy-based soups can sometimes exhibit a slight separation or a grainy texture after thawing and reheating. This is due to the fat content in dairy products. Personally, this doesn’t bother me, as the flavor remains excellent.
To freeze the soup, I highly recommend using freezer molds from Amazon, which allow for portion control and easy storage. Once frozen solid, you can pop the soup blocks out and transfer them to freezer-safe bags or containers for long-term storage (up to 3 months).
If the dairy separation is a concern for you, here’s a smart workaround: prepare the soup through step 2 (before adding sour cream and half and half). Freeze the potato and broth base. When you’re ready to enjoy the soup, thaw the base, heat it on the stovetop or in the slow cooker, and then stir in the sour cream and half and half (or heavy cream) as per the original recipe. This ensures a perfectly creamy texture every time!
What to Serve With Your Loaded Potato Soup
A rich and creamy slow cooker loaded potato soup can be a meal in itself, but pairing it with a simple side can elevate the dining experience and balance its hearty nature. Here are some fantastic options that complement the flavors and textures of this comforting soup:
- Air Fryer Green Beans: A crisp, healthy, and quick side that offers a lovely contrast to the creamy soup. The air fryer ensures perfect texture and minimal fuss.
- Broccoli Salad with Cheese: A refreshing and crunchy salad with a creamy dressing and savory cheese, offering a great textural and flavor contrast.
- Grilled Asparagus: Simple, elegant, and earthy, grilled asparagus adds a touch of sophistication and a healthy green element.
- Roasted Air Fryer Carrots: Sweet and tender, these carrots are a simple and delicious addition that echo some of the flavors within the soup itself.
- Slow Cooker Crockpot Pinto Beans: For an even heartier meal, a side of flavorful pinto beans provides additional protein and a different kind of comforting texture.
- Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious soup, a warm, crusty bread is always a welcome addition.
- A Simple Green Salad: A light vinaigrette-dressed mixed green salad can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the soup.
More Comforting Soup Recipes to Explore
If you’ve fallen in love with the ease and comfort of this loaded potato soup, you’ll be thrilled to discover a whole world of other delicious and satisfying soup recipes. Here are some more of our favorites that promise to warm you from the inside out:
- Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Soup: All the classic flavors of chicken pot pie in a hearty, spoonable soup, made effortlessly in your slow cooker.
- Autumn Butternut Squash Soup: A vibrant and naturally sweet soup, perfect for fall, with creamy texture and warm spices.
- Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup: The ultimate classic cold remedy and comfort food, just like grandma used to make.
- Slow Cooker Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup: A fun and flavorful soup that tastes just like a loaded cheeseburger, but in a bowl.
- Slow Cooker Crockpot Broccoli Cheese Soup: Rich, cheesy, and packed with tender broccoli florets – a family-friendly favorite.
- Creamy Chicken Alfredo Soup: Indulgent and satisfying, this soup captures the creamy richness of Alfredo pasta.
- Pizza Soup: All your favorite pizza flavors, like pepperoni, cheese, and Italian herbs, transformed into a comforting soup.
- Chicken Florentine Soup: A delicate and flavorful soup featuring tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a creamy broth.
Slow Cooker Crockpot Loaded Bacon and Potato Soup
Brandi Crawford
Pin Recipe
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Freezer Soup Molds
- Large knife and cutting board
- Potato peeler (optional)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 ½ pounds russet potatoes Peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
- 5 slices bacon Cooked until crispy and then crumbled.
- ½ cup chopped carrots
- ½ cup chopped celery
- ½ cup chopped onions
- 2-3 garlic cloves Minced for optimal flavor distribution.
- 3-4 cups broth Use chicken or vegetable broth. Ensure enough to cover the potatoes.
- Ranch Seasoning to taste Start with 2 teaspoons and adjust according to your preference.
- salt and pepper to taste Season generously and adjust after tasting.
- ½ cup half and half or heavy whipping cream Choose your preferred dairy for richness.
- ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
Instructions
Slow Cooker Soup
- In your slow cooker, combine the cubed potatoes, chopped celery, carrots, onions, minced garlic, crumbled bacon, broth, ranch seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir all ingredients well to ensure even seasoning.
- Cover and cook on the High setting for 3-4 hours, or on the Low setting for 6-7 hours, until the potatoes are completely tender and easily mashed with a fork.
- Once the potatoes are tender, carefully remove the lid. Stir in the sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt) and the half and half (or heavy cream). Gently mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot with a spoon or use a potato masher for a thicker, more rustic soup, if desired.
- Continue to stir until the soup reaches your desired creamy consistency and is heated through. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Ladle into bowls, add your favorite toppings, and serve warm.
Instant Pot Instructions (for a quicker meal)
- Add the potatoes, celery, carrots, onions, garlic, bacon, broth, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine.
- Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to Manual (or Pressure Cook) on High Pressure for 10 minutes.
- Once the cooking cycle is complete, perform a quick release of the steam. Carefully open the pot and stir in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and half and half (or heavy cream).
- Stir until the soup thickens to your desired consistency. Mash some potatoes if you prefer a thicker soup.
- Taste and adjust seasonings, then serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Notes
To make a dairy-free version of this soup, simply omit the half and half/heavy cream and sour cream/Greek yogurt. You can use a dairy-free alternative like unsweetened full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream for richness, or thicken with a cornstarch slurry.
The amount of Homemade Ranch Seasoning can be adjusted to your preference. I typically use a couple of teaspoons, but it’s best to taste repeatedly and adjust as the soup cooks to ensure the ranch flavor suits your taste buds without overpowering the other delicious ingredients.
For an ultra-creamy soup without any potato chunks, feel free to puree the soup with an immersion blender directly in the pot, or carefully transfer it to a high-powered blender (in batches, taking care with hot liquids) once cooked. Blend until perfectly smooth before adding the dairy.
If you prefer to cook this loaded potato soup on the stovetop, you can certainly do so. Follow the initial instructions: combine all ingredients (except dairy) in a large pot or Dutch oven. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 20-30 minutes. Once tender, proceed to add the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and half and half (or heavy whipping cream) and stir until thickened.
Nutrition
Nutrition Data
Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.