Loaded Potato Soup (Crockpot) Recipe is a delightfully warm and hearty dish that brings comfort to any table. You can whip this up in your slow cooker with minimal effort, and before you know it, a luscious, creamy soup is ready to be enjoyed. If you love potatoes, cheese, and all the exciting toppings, you are in for a treat! Let’s get started on this delightful journey.
What is Loaded Potato Soup?
Loaded potato soup is a creamy soup packed with flavor and, of course, potatoes! It typically includes bacon, cheese, green onions, and sour cream, all mixed into a comforting bowl. Using a crockpot makes the process so simple. You can toss everything in, set it, and let the magic happen while you go about your day.
Ingredients for Loaded Potato Soup
Gathering the ingredients for your Loaded Potato Soup (Crockpot) Recipe is easy and fun. Here’s a list of what you will need:
- Main Ingredients
- Toppings
- Crumbled bacon (cooked)
- Chopped green onions (scallions)
- Sour cream
- Additional shredded cheese
- Optional Ingredients
- Celery (diced for extra flavor)
- Carrots (diced for added sweetness)
- Spices such as paprika or onion powder (for depth)
How to Make Loaded Potato Soup in the Crockpot
Making this fantastic Loaded Potato Soup is super easy. Just follow these simple steps!
Prep Your Veggies
Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small cubes. Don’t forget to chop the onion and mince the garlic. If you are adding celery or carrots, chop them too. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smoother.
Combine Ingredients
In your crockpot, add the diced potatoes, onion, garlic, and any other veggies you decided to use. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring all the veggies are submerged. Season with salt and pepper for flavor.
Slow Cook
Set your crockpot to low and let it cook for around 6 to 8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender. If you are in a hurry, a high setting will do the trick in about 4 hours.
Blend (Optional)
Once the potatoes are cooked, you can blend part of the soup for a creamier texture. Use an immersion blender right in the crockpot, or transfer some of the soup to a blender. Blend until you reach your desired consistency, then return it to the pot.
Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half to give your soup that creamy richness. Then, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and incorporates smoothly. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve and Top
Scoop the soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon, green onions, a dollop of sour cream, and some extra cheese. Enjoy your delicious Loaded Potato Soup!
Tips for the Best Loaded Potato Soup
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are best for this recipe due to their starchy nature, making the soup creamy.
- Don’t Skip the Toppings: Toppings elevate the soup with flavor and texture, so don’t hold back on the cheese and bacon!
- Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to mix in spices or other veggies based on what you have on hand.
How to Serve Loaded Potato Soup
Loaded Potato Soup is perfect for lunch or dinner, but it also makes a fantastic appetizer for gatherings. Serve with:
- Crusty Bread: A fresh loaf of bread or garlic bread pairs perfectly with the creamy soup.
- Salad: A light salad complements the richness of the soup nicely.
- Sandwiches: Add a hearty sandwich for a complete meal.
Storage Tips for Loaded Potato Soup
If you have leftovers (if you can resist eating it all), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerating: Store your cooled soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Freezing: Loaded Potato Soup freezes well too. Just make sure to leave out the toppings, as they do not freeze well. Store in freezer-safe containers and enjoy within three months.
Variations of Loaded Potato Soup
Feel free to switch up the recipe to suit your taste. Here are some delicious variations:
- Baked Potato Style: Top with all the typical baked potato fixings – sour cream, chives, and more cheese!
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a dash of cayenne for some heat.
- Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and skip the bacon for a veggie-friendly soup.
What Goes Well with Loaded Potato Soup?
Loaded Potato Soup is versatile when it comes to pairings. Here are a few options:
- Grilled Cheese: Who doesn’t love dunking a cheesy sandwich into soup?
- French Fries: An indulgent combo that everyone will enjoy.
- Steamed Veggies: Balance out your meal with healthy sides.
Nutritional Benefits of Loaded Potato Soup
While this soup is comforting and delicious, it also offers some nutritional benefits:
- Potatoes: Rich in vitamins C and B6, they provide energy and support immune health.
- Cheese: Offers calcium and protein.
- Vegetables: Adding onions and other veggies increases fiber and provides more nutrients.
Your Loaded Potato Soup is not just a dish; it is a warm hug in a bowl. The ease of making it in a crockpot is a game-changer. With a few ingredients and some waiting time, you can relish a deeply satisfying meal. It’s perfect for cozy nights and gatherings alike.