There’s nothing quite like the hearty warmth of Slow Cooker Potato Soup. With its creamy base, tender potatoes, and savory hints of bacon, this soup is the definition of comfort in a bowl. The blend of sharp cheddar cheese and a touch of Greek yogurt adds richness without overwhelming the dish, making it a perfectly balanced meal. This recipe is versatile enough to suit any occasion – whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a potluck favorite, or a simple way to warm up on a cold day. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, letting you enjoy the delicious aromas as this soup simmers to perfection. Garnish with fresh chives or extra cheese for that finishing touch!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 6 slices cooked bacon, diced
- 3–4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium white or yellow onion, diced
- 4 tablespoons bacon grease (or butter)
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 (12-ounce) can 2% evaporated milk
- 1 cup shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup plain low-fat Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions or chives, extra shredded cheese, extra bacon, sour cream
Directions:
- Add bacon, stock, potatoes, and onion to a large slow cooker and stir to combine.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until potatoes are tender.
- In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter (or reserved bacon grease). Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring occasionally.
- Gradually whisk in evaporated milk, ensuring the mixture is smooth. Cook until it thickens into a gravy-like consistency, then add it to the slow cooker.
- Stir in cheddar cheese, Greek yogurt, salt, and pepper until combined.
- For a thicker consistency, mash half of the potatoes in the slow cooker. For a thinner soup, add 1–2 cups of warmed stock.
- Stir, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve warm with your favorite toppings or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high) | Total Time: ~4 hours 20 minutes (minimum)
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6
The Ultimate Comfort: Slow Cooker Potato Soup
There’s something uniquely satisfying about a warm, creamy bowl of soup on a chilly day. Slow Cooker Potato Soup stands as one of the most beloved comfort foods, known for its hearty texture, rich flavors, and effortless preparation. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving a cozy dinner, this dish delivers an irresistible combination of taste and simplicity.
Potatoes, the humble heroes of countless recipes, take center stage in this dish, showcasing their versatility and ability to absorb flavors beautifully. Combined with the smoky, savory notes of bacon, the creamy tang of Greek yogurt or sour cream, and the sharp richness of cheddar cheese, Slow Cooker Potato Soup transcends the ordinary, offering a meal that feels indulgent without being overly complicated.
Why Use a Slow Cooker?
The slow cooker is a game-changer for soups, especially ones like this that require a melding of flavors over time. By cooking low and slow, the ingredients release their essence, creating a depth of flavor that’s hard to achieve with quicker methods. The long cooking process also allows the potatoes to become tender and creamy, enhancing the overall texture of the soup.
Moreover, using a slow cooker is a convenient option for busy households. You can toss the ingredients in, set the timer, and let the magic happen while you go about your day. Whether you’re working from home, running errands, or spending time with loved ones, the slow cooker ensures that dinner will be ready when you are.
A Nutritional Perspective
One of the most delightful aspects of Slow Cooker Potato Soup is its balance of indulgence and nutrition. Potatoes are packed with essential nutrients like potassium, vitamin C, and fiber. While they often get a bad rap in high-fat recipes, this soup uses techniques to keep things lighter without sacrificing flavor.
For instance, using Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream instead of heavy cream reduces the fat content while adding a tangy creaminess. Opting for reduced-fat cheddar cheese and evaporated milk also keeps the calorie count in check. Additionally, you can customize the recipe to suit dietary needs—such as using vegetable stock for a vegetarian version or skipping the bacon to cut down on sodium.
Flavor Customizations
While the classic combination of bacon, cheddar, and potatoes is hard to beat, this recipe offers plenty of room for creativity. Here are a few ways to make it your own:
- Add Veggies: Incorporate diced carrots, celery, or leeks to bring more flavor and texture to the soup. These veggies complement the potato base and add a touch of sweetness.
- Spices and Herbs: Experiment with seasonings like smoked paprika, thyme, or rosemary for a unique twist. A dash of cayenne pepper can also add some heat for spice lovers.
- Cheese Variety: Swap out the sharp cheddar for other types like Gruyère, Parmesan, or even a smoky Gouda. Each brings its own personality to the soup.
- Protein Boost: For an extra protein punch, add cooked shredded chicken or turkey. It’s a great way to turn the soup into a more filling meal.
- Topping Fun: Get creative with toppings. Beyond the classic green onions and extra cheese, try crumbled croutons, crispy fried onions, or even a drizzle of truffle oil for an upscale flair.
The Perfect Occasion for Slow Cooker Potato Soup
Slow Cooker Potato Soup is versatile enough for any occasion. Need a quick dinner that the whole family will enjoy? Done. Hosting friends for a casual gathering? This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Even during the holidays, it can serve as a satisfying starter or side dish alongside heartier mains.
Its make-ahead quality is another reason it shines. You can prepare it in the morning and let it cook while you focus on other tasks. It also stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it ideal for meal prepping. However, it’s worth noting that this soup doesn’t freeze well due to the creamy base, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days.
Why It’s a Family Favorite
This soup has a way of bringing people together. There’s something nostalgic and comforting about its rich, creamy texture and familiar flavors. It appeals to a wide range of palates, making it a hit with kids and adults alike. For picky eaters, it’s easy to keep the soup simple and let everyone customize their own bowl with toppings.
Parents also appreciate how nourishing this soup can be. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients and can be made healthier by adjusting the fat content or adding extra vegetables. It’s a meal that feels like a treat while still being nutritious a win-win for family dinners.
Conclusion:
Slow Cooker Potato Soup isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience of warmth, comfort, and home-cooked goodness. With its blend of creamy potatoes, savory bacon, and sharp cheese, this dish strikes the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.
Whether you’re enjoying it on a snowy winter evening, bringing it to a potluck, or serving it as part of a festive feast, this soup will undoubtedly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. The slow cooker does most of the work, leaving you free to savor the anticipation of a delicious, hearty bowl of comfort food.
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Slow Cooker Potato Soup
- Total Time: 0 hours
Description
There’s nothing quite like the hearty warmth of Slow Cooker Potato Soup. With its creamy base, tender potatoes, and savory hints of bacon, this soup is the definition of comfort in a bowl. The blend of sharp cheddar cheese and a touch of Greek yogurt adds richness without overwhelming the dish, making it a perfectly balanced meal. This recipe is versatile enough to suit any occasion – whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a potluck favorite, or a simple way to warm up on a cold day. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, letting you enjoy the delicious aromas as this soup simmers to perfection. Garnish with fresh chives or extra cheese for that finishing touch!
Ingredients
- 6 slices cooked bacon, diced
- 3–4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium white or yellow onion, diced
- 4 tablespoons bacon grease (or butter)
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 (12-ounce) can 2% evaporated milk
- 1 cup shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup plain low-fat Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions or chives, extra shredded cheese, extra bacon, sour cream
Instructions
- Add bacon, stock, potatoes, and onion to a large slow cooker and stir to combine.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until potatoes are tender.
- In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter (or reserved bacon grease). Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring occasionally.
- Gradually whisk in evaporated milk, ensuring the mixture is smooth. Cook until it thickens into a gravy-like consistency, then add it to the slow cooker.
- Stir in cheddar cheese, Greek yogurt, salt, and pepper until combined.
- For a thicker consistency, mash half of the potatoes in the slow cooker. For a thinner soup, add 1–2 cups of warmed stock.
- Stir, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve warm with your favorite toppings or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
