When a crisp breeze settles in and you crave something indulgent yet simple, this Hearty and Creamy Crockpot Potato Soup with Bacon is exactly what you need. Swirls of velvety sour cream and rich cheddar cheese mingle with golden bacon bits, creating a bowlful that’s both luxurious and homey. As the slow cooker hums in the background, tender potato cubes bathe in a savory chicken broth infused with garlic, onions, and thyme, transforming into a silky base that practically begs for a crusty piece of bread to sop up every last drop. This beginner-friendly recipe takes just fifteen minutes of hands-on prep before letting your crockpot work its magic, making it the ultimate companion for busy weeknight dinners or lazy weekend afternoons.
Gathering the family or hosting friends has never been easier. There’s something about the simplicity of tossing ingredients into one pot, pressing a button, and coming back hours later to find a steaming pot of comfort. The balance of textures—from soft, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes to the occasional crisp bite of bacon—keeps everyone at the table engaged and satisfied. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or someone testing out their very first crockpot recipe, this soup delivers dependable results and rave reviews. Keep reading to discover how you can recreate this cozy classic in your own kitchen, complete with personal touches and serving ideas that will elevate every spoonful.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN HEARTY AND CREAMY CROCKPOT POTATO SOUP WITH BACON
Every memorable recipe starts with quality ingredients that come together to build layers of flavor and texture. Here’s a breakdown of the essential components that make this soup shine:
- Bacon
Adds a smoky, salty richness and renders flavorful fat that becomes the base for sautéing aromatics.
- Onion
Provides a sweet, savory backbone when sautéed to translucent perfection, deepening the overall flavor profile.
- Garlic
Introduces a subtle punch that brightens the broth and complements the earthiness of the potatoes.
- Potatoes
Serve as the hearty heart of the dish, breaking down slightly during cooking to thicken the soup and deliver that comforting, creamy mouthfeel.
- Chicken broth
Offers a savory liquid foundation that balances the richness of the dairy and bacon, infusing the soup with a warm, meaty depth.
- Salt
Enhances and harmonizes all the flavors, ensuring each ingredient pops without overwhelming the palate.
- Black pepper
Contributes a gentle heat and aromatic edge, rounding out the seasoning for a well-balanced bite.
- Dried thyme
Adds an herby, slightly floral nuance that pairs perfectly with potatoes and bacon, lending an unmistakable comforting flavor.
- Sour cream
Introduces tang and creaminess, lightening the broth while delivering a silky texture that clings to each spoonful.
- Heavy cream
Elevates the soup’s richness, creating a luxurious, thick consistency that feels indulgent yet smooth.
- Cheddar cheese
Melts into gooey ribbons of sharp, savory goodness, intertwining with the creamy base for an extra layer of flavor.
- All-purpose flour
Acts as a thickening agent when whisked into the dairy mixture, ensuring the soup achieves that signature velvety consistency.
- Fresh chives
Provide a bright, oniony garnish that cuts through the richness and adds a pop of color to each bowl.
HOW TO MAKE HEARTY AND CREAMY CROCKPOT POTATO SOUP WITH BACON
Let’s walk through the process of building layers of flavor, step by step. By following these instructions closely, you’ll harness the slow cooker’s magic to create a luscious, comforting soup:
1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until it turns crispy and golden. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon pieces and place them on paper towels to drain excess fat, leaving behind about two tablespoons of rendered bacon grease in the skillet.
2. With the reserved bacon grease still hot, sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent, about 3–5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, ensuring you stir constantly to prevent burning and to release that vibrant garlic flavor.
3. Transfer the onion and garlic mixture to the crockpot, then add the diced potatoes. Pour in the chicken broth, and season with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Stir gently to combine the ingredients and distribute the seasonings evenly.
4. Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 6–8 hours. The soup is ready when the potatoes are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork but still hold their shape.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, heavy cream, and all-purpose flour until smooth and free of lumps. Gradually stir this mixture into the hot soup, allowing the flour to thicken the broth without clumping.
6. To achieve a creamy yet chunky consistency, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup directly in the crockpot. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer a portion of the hot soup to a stand blender, blend until desired texture is reached, and return it to the pot.
7. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing continuously until the cheese melts completely and integrates into the soup, creating silky, flavorful ribbons.
8. Ladle the soup into individual bowls and sprinkle with the reserved crispy bacon pieces. Garnish with chopped fresh chives for a vibrant, oniony finish.
9. Serve hot alongside your favorite sides and enjoy every spoonful of this hearty, creamy masterpiece.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR HEARTY AND CREAMY CROCKPOT POTATO SOUP WITH BACON
Serving this potato soup is all about creating an experience that feels special and inviting. Whether you’re plating up a casual weeknight meal or entertaining guests, the right accompaniments will enhance every creamy spoonful and elevate your presentation.
- Serve each portion in rustic ceramic bowls to capture that cozy, homemade vibe. Swirl a dollop of sour cream on top and finish with extra fresh chives for a pop of color and tang.
- Pair with warm, crusty bread—think a baguette or a sourdough loaf—to soak up every drop of the savory broth. You can even slice and grill the bread with a brush of garlic butter for an extra flavor boost.
- Offer a topping bar featuring shredded cheddar, crisp bacon bits, diced green onions, and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. This lets guests personalize their bowls and adds a fun, interactive element to the meal.
- Complement the rich soup with a simple green salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette. A crisp mixture of arugula, baby spinach, and sliced radishes cuts through the creaminess and adds a refreshing balance.
HOW TO STORE HEARTY AND CREAMY CROCKPOT POTATO SOUP WITH BACON
Storing your leftover potato soup properly will preserve its creamy texture and vibrant flavors, ensuring you can enjoy it again without missing a beat. Follow these guidelines to maintain freshness and quality:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container within two hours of cooking. Allow the soup to cool slightly before sealing to prevent condensation and soggy flavors. Consume within 3–4 days for optimal taste.
- Freeze individual portions in labeled, freezer-safe containers, leaving space at the top for expansion. This method makes it easy to grab a single serving for a quick meal—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to regain a silky consistency.
- Refresh leftovers by stirring in a tablespoon of cream or a swirl of sour cream after reheating. This brings back the soup’s original richness and creaminess, ensuring every spoonful tastes as indulgent as the first.
CONCLUSION
From the moment you start crisping bacon on the stove to the final swirl of cheese and chives, this Hearty and Creamy Crockpot Potato Soup with Bacon is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With minimal hands-on prep, you can rely on your slow cooker to transform simple pantry staples into a soul-warming meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights. The combination of tender potatoes, savory broth, and creamy dairy elements creates a symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Feel free to print this article and save it in your recipe binder for quick reference—there’s also a FAQ section below to address any lingering questions or substitution ideas you might have.
I’d love to hear how your soup turns out! If you have any comments, questions, or feedback—whether it’s about adjusting seasoning levels, experimenting with mix-ins like carrots or celery, or perfecting the texture—please share your thoughts. This recipe is designed to be a flexible canvas for your culinary creativity, and your insights help make it even better. Happy cooking, and may every bowl bring warmth and satisfaction to your table.
Hearty and Creamy Crockpot Potato Soup with Bacon
Description
Experience a comforting blend of tender potatoes, smoky bacon, and creamy goodness in every spoonful. Perfect for chilly nights and easy to make in your crockpot!
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and place on paper towels to drain. Reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
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In the same skillet with the reserved bacon grease, sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. Transfer the onion and garlic mixture to the crockpot.
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Add the diced potatoes to the crockpot, followed by the chicken broth, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Stir the mixture to combine the ingredients well.
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Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
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In a bowl, whisk together the sour cream, heavy cream, and flour until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the crockpot, stirring well to incorporate.
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Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, creating a creamy texture while leaving some potato chunks. If you do not have an immersion blender, carefully transfer a portion of the soup to a regular blender to blend, then return to the crockpot.
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Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well-blended into the soup.
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Ladle the soup into bowls, and top with crispy bacon pieces and chopped fresh chives, if desired.
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Serve hot and enjoy the hearty and creamy potato soup.
Note
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to reduce the fat content and add a protein boost.
- Add extra vegetables like carrots and celery for added nutrition and flavor.
- Adjust spices to your taste, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.
- The soup thickens as it cools, and leftovers can be easily reheated for a quick meal the next day.
- This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
