There’s nothing quite like the cozy, mouthwatering aroma of a creamy potato soup simmering away in the slow cooker. On those chilly nights when a hearty meal is a must, this Classic Slow Cooker Potato Soup becomes my go-to comfort dish. Rich with a delightful mix of tender potato chunks, crispy bacon, and loads of cheese, it transforms your kitchen into a warm haven, inviting everyone to gather around the table.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. Just toss in a few ingredients, set the timer, and let the slow cooker do all the work. Imagine coming home after a busy day to find your dinner ready, steaming and waiting! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just someone craving a hearty homemade meal, this soup won’t disappoint. So grab your slow cooker, and let’s dive into a bowl of warmth and flavor that’s perfect for family sharing or a cozy solo dinner.
Why Love This Slow Cooker Potato Soup?
Simplicity Made Easy: Tossing the ingredients into a slow cooker is all it takes.
Hearty and Comforting: You’ll enjoy a warm embrace of creamy textures and savory flavors with every spoonful.
Family-Friendly: This dish caters to everyone—kids will love it, and adults can appreciate the rich taste.
Versatile Options: With substitutions available, you can customize it to suit dietary preferences, like vegetarian variations or extra cheese.
Time-Saving Delight: Set it and forget it! Just leave it to cook while you relax, making life a little easier.
For more comforting recipes, consider exploring my delicious slow cooker meals.
Slow Cooker Potato Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Bacon – Adds flavor and richness; can use turkey bacon or omit for a vegetarian version.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – Acts as a thickener for a creamy texture; substitute with cream of celery for a vegetarian option.
• Chicken Broth – Provides a flavorful base; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Frozen Hash Brown Cubes – Forms the base of the soup and thickens as it cooks; shredded or fresh diced potatoes can also be used.
For Seasoning
• Onion Powder – Enhances flavor depth; fresh onion may also be used, sautéed for added aroma.
• Garlic Powder – Adds aromatic flavor; fresh minced garlic can replace this (about 1 clove).
• Black Pepper – Adds heat; adjust to taste or substitute with white pepper for a milder flavor.
• Seasoned Salt – Enhances overall flavor; regular salt can be used, just adjust to taste.
For Creaminess
• Cream Cheese – Contributes to overall creaminess; use low-fat cream cheese or omit for a dairy-free version.
• Heavy Cream – Adds richness to the soup; replace with half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free version.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Infuses flavor and creaminess; substitute with any cheese preferred—Monterey Jack or Gouda work nicely.
For Garnish
• Sliced Green Onions – Adds a fresh crunch; chives may be used as an alternative.
Enjoy the cozy flavors of this slow cooker potato soup that warms the spirit on chilly nights!
How to Make Slow Cooker Potato Soup
Cook Bacon: In a skillet, cook bacon over medium-high heat until crispy (about 8-10 minutes). Once cooked, drain the excess fat, crumble the bacon, and set it aside for later use.
Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Without thawing, toss in the frozen hash brown cubes, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and seasoned salt. Mix well and fold in three-quarters of the crumbled bacon.
Slow Cook: Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for 5-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Check for potato tenderness halfway through the cooking time.
Add Dairy: Once the potatoes are tender, increase the heat to high. Cut the softened cream cheese into cubes, adding it along with the shredded cheddar and heavy cream. Stir everything together until well combined.
Final Cooking: Cook uncovered for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the cheese melts. Stir occasionally and taste to adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serve: Ladle the creamy soup into bowls, garnishing with the reserved bacon, additional shredded cheese, and sliced green onions for a fresh crunch.
Optional: Pair with warm crusty bread for a delightful meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Potato Soup
Bacon Choices: Use thick-cut bacon for a richer flavor; turkey bacon can also provide a lighter option without sacrificing taste.
Broth Matters: Opt for low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to control salt levels; this ensures balanced flavor without overpowering the soup.
Thickening Tricks: For a creamier texture, mash some potatoes against the sides of the slow cooker towards the end of cooking. This prevents the soup from being too thin.
Cheese Timing: Add cheese during the final stages of cooking to ensure it melts evenly and doesn’t separate—creating that luscious, creamy consistency.
Garnish for Freshness: Don’t skip the sliced green onions! They add a crunchy texture and a fresh burst of flavor that brightens the dish perfectly.
Storage Tips: Remember to cool the soup completely before storing in an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture. Enjoy your slow cooker potato soup within four days in the fridge!
Slow Cooker Potato Soup Variations
Explore fun ways to customize your comforting soup and make it your own!
Vegetarian Delight: Omit bacon and use vegetable broth and cream of mushroom instead of cream of chicken for a plant-based version. This swap keeps the heartiness while remaining fully vegetarian!
Cheesy Twist: Mix in additional types of cheese like Gouda or pepper jack for different flavor profiles. The cheese pulls melt beautifully, bringing richness with every bite!
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a flavorful heat. A little spice can elevate the comfort of this soup, creating a warm hug with a punch!
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in dried herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking. These add an aromatic depth that complements the potatoes excellently, elevating your soup’s flavors.
Nutty Creaminess: Replace heavy cream with a swirl of cashew cream for a vegan twist that adds a light nutty flavor. You’ll enjoy a deliciously creamy texture without any dairy!
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness or swap traditional bacon for smoked tempeh. This adds a delightful depth, giving you layers of flavorful goodness!
Texture Alternatives: For a smoother soup, blend half the mixture before adding cream cheese and cheese. This adds a lovely creamy backdrop to the chunky ingredients, giving you the best of both worlds!
Sweet Corn Addition: Toss in a cup of frozen corn for a sweet pop of flavor and added texture. The corn pairs beautifully with potatoes, making every bite a little more exciting!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Potato Soup?
Elevate your comforting soup experience with delightful accompaniments that perfectly balance its creaminess and warmth.
- Crusty Bread: A soft, warm loaf is perfect for dipping; its crispy crust and fluffy interior complement the thick soup beautifully.
- Simple Side Salad: Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette add a refreshing crunch, offering a crisp contrast to the creamy potato soup.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery, and slightly garlicky, these are ideal for sopping up the velvety soup, making each bite pleasurable.
- Cheesy Biscuits: Flaky and buttery with a cheesy interior, these little delights are a hit for both kids and adults alike, enhancing the overall meal.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans provide a vibrant pop of color and nutrition, balancing the richness of the soup while adding wholesome goodness.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits provides a sweet counterpoint to your savory soup—perfect for cleansing the palate.
- Red Wine: A light-bodied red, like Pinot Noir, complements the dish’s earthy flavors, creating a delightful harmony with every sip.
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Potato Soup
Fridge: Store your soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Ensure it cools completely before sealing to maintain texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Leave some space for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
Texture Reminder: After freezing, expect a slight change in texture; a quick stir will help revive the creamy goodness in your warm slow cooker potato soup.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Slow Cooker Potato Soup in advance is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can chop and store your vegetables and bacon in an airtight container up to 24 hours in advance. If you prefer, you can also combine the frozen hash browns, broth, cream of chicken soup, and seasonings in the slow cooker insert and refrigerate it overnight. To maintain quality, ensure everything is sealed tightly to prevent browning and avoid excess moisture. When you’re ready to cook, simply pop the insert into your slow cooker and follow the normal instructions for cooking. This method means a delicious, hearty soup is waiting for you at the end of a hectic day!
Classic Slow Cooker Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for the best soup?
For this soup, I recommend using frozen hash brown cubes, as they cook quickly and thicken the soup beautifully. However, fresh diced potatoes can also work; just be sure to cut them into small, even pieces for consistent cooking.
How long can I store Slow Cooker Potato Soup in the fridge?
You can safely store this soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing—this helps to preserve the wonderful texture and flavor.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Potato Soup, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze, let your soup cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe containers. It will stay good for up to 2 months. Just remember to leave a little space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes!
What should I do if the soup is too thin?
If you find that your soup has turned out thinner than desired, no worries! Towards the end of the cooking time, you can mash some of the potatoes against the sides of the slow cooker with a fork or potato masher. This will naturally thicken the soup without needing any extra ingredients.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth along with cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken. Additionally, you can use low-fat cream cheese and heavy cream, or even coconut cream, to make it dairy-free.
How do I reheat frozen potato soup?
To reheat, first, transfer the frozen soup to the fridge and let it thaw overnight. Then, warm it over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth or water to get your soup back to its creamy consistency.
Cozy Up with Homemade Slow Cooker Potato Soup Recipe
Equipment
- - Slow cooker
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 6 slices Bacon Can use turkey bacon or omit for vegetarian.
- 1 can Cream of Chicken Soup Substitute with cream of celery for vegetarian.
- 4 cups Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth for vegetarian.
- 30 oz Frozen Hash Brown Cubes Shredded or fresh diced potatoes can also be used.
For Seasoning
- 1 tsp Onion Powder Fresh onion may be used, sautéed.
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder Replace with about 1 clove fresh minced garlic.
- 1 tsp Black Pepper Adjust to taste.
- 1 tsp Seasoned Salt Regular salt can be used, adjust to taste.
For Creaminess
- 8 oz Cream Cheese Use low-fat or omit for dairy-free.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream Replace with half-and-half or coconut cream.
- 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese Substitute with Monterey Jack or Gouda.
For Garnish
- 1 bunch Sliced Green Onions Chives can be used as an alternative.
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook bacon over medium-high heat until crispy (about 8-10 minutes). Drain excess fat, crumble, and set aside.
- Add frozen hash brown cubes, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and seasoned salt to the slow cooker. Mix well and fold in three-quarters of the crumbled bacon.
- Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until potatoes are tender.
- Increase heat to high and add cream cheese cut into cubes, shredded cheddar, and heavy cream. Stir until well combined.
- Cook uncovered for an additional 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally and adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with reserved bacon, additional shredded cheese, and sliced green onions.