Nothing says comfort like a bowl of creamy, cheesy potato soup simmered to perfection in a slow cooker. Loaded with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a blend of cheeses, this recipe is a guaranteed family favorite. Perfect for chilly evenings, quick family dinners, or meal prep, this soup will become your go-to recipe for ultimate coziness.
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Why This Recipe Stands Out
Effortless Prep: Toss everything in the crock pot and let it work its magic.
Irresistible Flavors: Smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and creamy potatoes come together in a bowl of perfection.
Customizable: Add extra ingredients like ham, sausage, or veggies to make it your own.
Perfect for Busy Days: Let it simmer while you go about your day, and return to a ready-to-serve meal!
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Ingredients:
Here’s everything you need to make this comforting classic:
6 medium potatoes (peeled and diced into small chunks)
1 medium onion (diced for flavor)
4 cups chicken broth (use low-sodium for better control over salt)
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika (adds depth and a smoky flavor)
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a slight kick)
1 block (8 oz) cream cheese (softened for easy mixing)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your choice)
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (for added creaminess)
1/2 cup sour cream (creates a tangy and rich texture)
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (plus extra for garnishing)
1/2 cup crispy fried onions (optional, for crunch and flavor)
Optional protein: Add 1/2 cup diced ham or cooked sausage for a heartier meal.
Optional spice: Include 1/4 cup diced jalapeños if you love a spicy kick.
Optional garnish: 1/4 cup chopped green onions for freshness.
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Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crock Pot Base:
Add the diced potatoes, onion, chicken broth, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper into the crock pot. Stir to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
2. Cook to Perfection:
Cover and set your crock pot to low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Cook until the potatoes are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
3. Optional Blending for Creaminess:
If you prefer a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup directly in the crock pot. Leave some potato chunks intact for a rustic, hearty feel.
4. Incorporate the Creamy Ingredients:
Stir in the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, sour cream, and cooked bacon. Continue stirring until the cheeses are melted and the soup is rich and creamy.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more black pepper, a pinch of salt, or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
6. Serve with Style:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra bacon, shredded cheese, crispy fried onions, and green onions for a pop of color and crunch.
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Tips for Success:
1. Vegetarian-Friendly Swap: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and replace bacon with smoked tofu or sautéed mushrooms.
2. Thicker Texture: If you like your soup extra thick, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the soup 30 minutes before serving.
3. Extra Veggies: Add diced carrots, celery, or even corn for additional flavor and nutrition.
4. Storage & Reheating:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain the creamy texture.
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Perfect Pairings:
Bread: Serve with warm crusty bread, garlic knots, or buttery dinner rolls.
Salad: A fresh side salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
Drink: Pair with a glass of dry white wine or a warm apple cider for the ultimate comfort meal.
Don’t wait—try this ultimate comfort food recipe today!