Creamy Crockpot Baked Potato and Bacon Soup

Creamy Crockpot Baked Potato and Bacon Soup: A Cozy Bowl of Comfort

As the temperature drops and the leaves turn golden, there’s nothing quite as inviting as a warm bowl of soup. The quintessential comfort food, soup has a unique ability to bring warmth to even the coldest of days. One of my most cherished childhood memories is gathering around the table with my family on a brisk autumn evening, enveloped in the comforting aroma of a hearty homemade soup simmering on the stove. Those moments of shared laughter and delicious flavors inspired my passion for cooking and sharing food with others. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that encapsulates that warmth and nostalgia: Creamy Crockpot Baked Potato and Bacon Soup.

This soup is more than just a meal; it’s a cozy experience that embraces you with every spoonful. The combination of Yukon gold potatoes, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese creates a flavor profile that is rich and satisfying. Best of all, this recipe is designed for the crockpot, allowing you to set it and forget it. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or leisurely weekends when you want to enjoy a delicious homemade meal without the fuss.

Gathering the Ingredients

To create this creamy bowl of goodness, you’ll need to gather a handful of wholesome ingredients that not only contribute to the soup’s texture but also enhance its flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

– 4 large Yukon gold potatoes: Known for their creamy texture and ability to hold their shape during cooking, Yukon gold potatoes are the perfect choice for this soup. Their natural buttery flavor adds richness to the dish, making each bite even more indulgent.

– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon: The star of the show! Thick-cut bacon lends a smoky flavor and delightful crunch that elevates the soup to a new level. As the bacon cooks, it releases its savory oils, infusing the broth with a mouthwatering taste.

– 1 medium onion: Diced finely, the onion adds a layer of sweetness and depth to the soup. When sautéed, it becomes tender and aromatic, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

– 3 cloves of garlic: Minced garlic brings an aromatic touch that elevates the dish. Its savory notes complement the other ingredients beautifully, creating a well-rounded flavor.

– 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth: The foundation of our soup, chicken broth serves as the base, allowing the flavors to meld together wonderfully. Opting for low-sodium broth ensures that you can control the saltiness of the dish, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through.

– 1 cup of heavy cream: To achieve that luscious, creamy texture that makes every spoonful indulgent, heavy cream is a must. It adds richness to the soup, transforming it into a velvety delight.

– 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese: No baked potato soup would be complete without cheese. The sharpness of the cheddar adds a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the soup, making each bite even more satisfying.

Preparing the Soup

Once you have all your ingredients ready, the first step in creating this comforting soup is to prepare your potatoes. Begin by washing and peeling the Yukon gold potatoes. Cutting them into bite-sized cubes will ensure they cook evenly and blend seamlessly into the soup. The smaller the cubes, the quicker they will soften during the slow-cooking process.

Next, it’s time to render the bacon. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the thick-cut bacon until it becomes crispy and golden. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and let it drain on a paper towel to absorb excess grease. Reserve a tablespoon or two of the bacon fat in the skillet; this will be used to sauté the onion and garlic, adding an extra layer of flavor to the soup.

Add the finely diced onion to the skillet and sauté it in the reserved bacon fat for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until the garlic is aromatic but not burnt. This step not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that the aromatic qualities of the onion and garlic are fully developed before they are combined with the other ingredients.

Once the onions and garlic are ready, it’s time to combine everything in the crockpot. Add the cubed potatoes, sautéed onion and garlic, and crispy bacon into the crockpot. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, ensuring that the potatoes are fully submerged. Stir everything together gently to mix the ingredients evenly.

Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. As the soup simmers, the flavors will meld beautifully, and your kitchen will be filled with an enticing aroma that will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner.

After the cooking time has elapsed, check the potatoes for tenderness. They should be soft enough to easily mash with a fork, which is the next step in creating that creamy consistency. Using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, gently mash the potatoes directly in the crockpot. This will create a creamy base while still leaving some chunks for texture.

Next, it’s time to add the heavy cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir these ingredients into the soup until the cheese melts completely and the soup reaches a rich, creamy consistency. The combination of cream and cheese not only enhances the flavor but also provides that signature baked potato experience that everyone loves.

This Creamy Crockpot Baked Potato and Bacon Soup is now ready to be served. The delightful combination of flavors and textures, along with the ease of preparation, makes it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening with family or serving it at a cozy gathering with friends, this soup is sure to warm hearts and fill bellies.

Stay tuned for the next part of this article, where we’ll explore serving suggestions and variations to make this recipe uniquely yours.

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Seasonings

To enhance the flavor profile of your Creamy Crockpot Baked Potato and Bacon Soup, the right seasonings are essential. Start with:

– 1 teaspoon of salt: This will help to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.

– ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle but necessary kick.

– ½ teaspoon of paprika (optional): This smoky spice lends warmth and depth to the soup.

– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme: A herb that complements the potatoes beautifully.

These ingredients will come together to create a delightful symphony of flavors in your soup.

Preparing the Soup

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s take a look at the preparation steps that will lead us to a warm, inviting bowl of soup.

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

The first step is to prepare the bacon. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it becomes crispy and golden brown, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. The sizzle and smell of bacon cooking in the kitchen is simply heavenly! Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon onto a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease. Don’t forget to reserve a few pieces for garnishing later!

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Next, in the same skillet, add the diced onion to the remaining bacon drippings. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Follow this by adding the minced garlic, which you’ll cook for an additional minute until fragrant. The combination of sautéed onion and garlic adds a rich flavor base to the soup that is simply irresistible.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Now, it’s time to combine everything in the crockpot. Layer the diced potatoes, the sautéed onion and garlic mixture, and the crispy bacon (make sure to save some for garnish!) in your crockpot. Next, pour in the chicken broth and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Gently mix everything to ensure the potatoes are well-coated in the broth.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Soup

Cover the crockpot with its lid and let it work its magic. You can choose to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the potatoes are tender enough to easily pierce with a fork. The tantalizing aroma wafting through your home will have everyone anticipating the delicious meal to come!

Step 5: Blend the Soup

Once the potatoes are cooked, we’ll blend the soup to achieve that creamy consistency. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the crockpot until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of it, leaving some potato pieces for that rustic feel. This step is crucial for achieving a rich, velvety texture that makes this soup so comforting.

Step 6: Add Cream and Cheese

Next, stir in the heavy cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese has melted and the soup is beautifully creamy. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper to suit your palate. The addition of heavy cream and cheese takes the soup from good to absolutely divine, giving it that signature richness that everyone loves.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Tips

Now for the best part—serving! Carefully ladle the warm soup into bowls and add a sprinkle of additional shredded cheese, some crispy bacon pieces, and fresh sliced green onions on top for a pop of color and freshness. Here are a few more serving suggestions to elevate your presentation:

– Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Adding a few sprigs of fresh thyme or parsley can enhance the visual appeal and add a touch of freshness.

– Serve with Crusty Bread: Pair your soup with slices of warm, crusty bread or homemade garlic bread for a complete meal.

– Add a Drizzle of Olive Oil: A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil can add richness and a beautiful sheen to your soup.

– Serve in Bread Bowls: For a fun and unique presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This not only looks impressive but also adds more flavor as you enjoy the soup!

Tips for Best Results

To make sure your Creamy Crockpot Baked Potato and Bacon Soup turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

1. Choose the Right Potatoes: For the best texture, use Russet potatoes. They have a high starch content, which results in a creamy soup.

2. Don’t Rush the Cooking Time: Allow the potatoes to cook fully until they are tender. This will ensure the flavors meld beautifully.

3. Customize Your Soup: Feel free to experiment with the seasonings! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for an umami kick can transform the flavor profile.

4. Make It Ahead: This soup is perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave out the cream until you reheat it.

5. Use Different Cheeses: While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different flavor.

Common Questions

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute the bacon with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also replace the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream.

How do I store leftovers?

Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creamy consistency.

Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! This soup is versatile. You can add vegetables like carrots, celery, or even corn for added texture and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

This Creamy Crockpot Baked Potato and Bacon Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or when you crave something warm and hearty. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and the irresistible crunch of bacon, it’s sure to become a staple in your home.

Try this recipe and experience the delightful combination of flavors it offers. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or enjoying it as a cozy meal for one, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table. Don’t forget to share your experience and any twists you put on this classic recipe! Happy cooking!