Slow Cooker Easy Baked Potato Soup
Are you looking for a comforting and delicious meal that requires minimal effort? Look no further than Slow Cooker Easy Baked Potato Soup. This hearty soup is packed with flavors and will warm your soul on a chilly day. Letโs dive into the details and learn how to make this delectable dish.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before we start cooking, letโs gather all the necessary ingredients. Youโll need potatoes, onions, garlic, chicken broth, bacon, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and some seasoning. Donโt worry about getting everything perfect; this recipe is forgiving and can be customized to your liking.
Preparation is Key
Before we toss everything in the slow cooker, letโs do some quick prep work. Chop the potatoes into bite-sized pieces, mince the onions and garlic, and cook the bacon until crispy. These simple steps will ensure that each spoonful of soup is bursting with flavor.
Slow and Steady Wins the Race
Now itโs time to assemble everything in the slow cooker. Layer the potatoes, onions, garlic, and bacon, and then pour in the chicken broth. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you prefer. Give everything a gentle stir, cover the slow cooker, and let it work its magic.
Patience is a Virtue
As the soup simmers away in the slow cooker, your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma. The flavors will slowly meld together, creating a rich and creamy base. This is where patience comes in โ resist the temptation to peek inside and let the soup cook on low heat for several hours.
A Finishing Touch
Once the soup is cooked to perfection, itโs time for the finishing touch. Use a potato masher to lightly mash the potatoes, creating a creamy texture. Add shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream, stirring until everything is well combined. The result? A velvety smooth soup that will make your taste buds sing.
Serve and Enjoy
Now that your Slow Cooker Easy Baked Potato Soup is ready, itโs time to serve and enjoy. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional bacon bits, cheese, and a sprinkling of fresh chives. Grab a spoon, cozy up on the couch, and savor each spoonful of this comfort food masterpiece.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different potato varieties. Russet potatoes are commonly used for this recipe, but Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well too.
2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The soup will still be flavorful and satisfying.
3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months.
4. Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Of course! This recipe is versatile, and you can add vegetables like carrots, celery, or corn to amp up the nutritional value. Just chop them into small pieces and add them to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients.
5. How can I make the soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup before adding the cheese and sour cream. This will create a creamier consistency.
6. What toppings can I add?
Aside from the suggested bacon bits, cheese, and chives, you can get creative with your toppings. Some popular options include diced green onions, crumbled crackers, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
7. Can I use an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?
Absolutely! The cooking time will be much shorter in an Instant Pot. Simply follow the manufacturerโs instructions for potato soup, and adjust accordingly.
8. Can I make this soup on the stovetop?
Yes, you can! Just bring the soup to a boil on the stovetop, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Easy Baked Potato Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that can be made with minimal effort. With its creamy texture and delicious toppings, itโs the perfect meal to warm you up on a cold day. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a bowl of pure comfort.
Slow Cooker, Easy Baked Potato Soup
Ingredientsย ย
- 10 red potatoes , cubed
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ยพ cup bacon bits
- 1 small red onion , chopped
- 1 clove garlic , minced
- 2 tablespoons chicken bouillon granules
- 1 tablespoon ranch dressing mix
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- ยฝ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup half-and-half
- ยฝ cup shredded Cheddar cheese
- ยผ cup chopped green onion
Instructionsย
- Start by placing potatoes in the bottom of your slow cooker crock.
- Sprinkle flour over the potatoes and toss them to coat evenly.
- Scatter bacon bits, red onion, garlic, chicken bouillon, ranch dressing mix, parsley, seasoned salt, and black pepper over the potatoes.
- Pour water into the slow cooker.
- Cook on Low heat setting for 7 to 9 hours.
- After the cooking time, pour half-and-half into the soup and continue cooking for another 15 minutes.
- To serve, garnish the soup with Cheddar cheese and green onion.
- Alternatively, you can cook the soup on High heat setting for 4 to 5 hours.