There's nothing quite like walking into your house after a chilly day and being greeted by the incredible aroma of creamy crockpot potato soup bubbling away. This loaded baked potato soup crockpot recipe has become our family's ultimate comfort food obsession.
When my grandmother first shared her secret for making the creamiest potato soup without standing over the stove all day, I thought it sounded too simple to be true. But after countless cozy evenings enjoying bowls of this heavenly soup, I can honestly say it's pure magic in a slow cooker.
Why You'll Love This Easy Crockpot Potato Soup
This crockpot potato soup recipe solves every busy weeknight dinner challenge you've ever faced. While other soups demand constant stirring and perfect timing, this beauty practically makes itself while you tackle your endless to-do list. My husband calls it "the soup that saves dinner," and honestly, he's absolutely right.
The potatoes become incredibly tender and creamy, creating the most satisfying texture that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Even my cheese-obsessed kids devour every single spoonful and beg me to make it again the very next day.
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What You'll Need
These simple pantry ingredients transform into pure comfort food gold right in your slow cooker. Most of these kitchen staples are probably already waiting in your cupboard, which makes this loaded potato soup crockpot perfect for those spontaneous soup cravings.
Main Ingredients
- 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 green onions, chopped
Optional Extras
Feel free to add sour cream for extra tanginess, extra bacon because everything's better with more bacon, or chives for a fresh pop of color.
This crockpot potatoes soup recipes is super easy, full steps are in the recipe card.
How to Make Crockpot Potato Soup
Prep the Potatoes
Peel and cube russet potatoes into bite-sized pieces, keeping them roughly the same size for even cooking. My mom always says the key to perfect texture is cutting them about an inch thick.
Layer the Base
Add cubed potatoes, diced onion, minced garlic, and chicken broth to your slow cooker. The broth should just cover the potatoes, creating the perfect cooking environment.
Season and Cook
Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and paprika, then give everything a gentle stir. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until potatoes are fork-tender.
Mash for Texture
Using a potato masher, lightly mash about half the potatoes directly in the slow cooker, leaving some chunks for that perfect loaded baked potato texture everyone loves.
Q: Can I use different types of potatoes? Russet potatoes work best because they break down beautifully and create that creamy texture. Yukon Gold can work too, but avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes for the creamiest results.
Add the Creaminess
Stir in softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese until everything melts into a gloriously creamy consistency. Top with crispy bacon and green onions before serving.
Aliana's Pro Tip
Here's my secret for the creamiest cream of potato soup recipes crock pot ever: add the cream cheese in small chunks and let it sit for a few minutes before stirring.
This prevents any lumps and creates that silky smooth texture that makes people think you're some kind of soup wizard.
I learned this trick after making a batch that had cream cheese chunks floating around like little white clouds.
Trust me, this small step transforms good soup into absolutely incredible soup that rivals any restaurant version.
Follow Aliana on Pinterest →Storage & Reheating Instructions
This baked potato soup recipe crockpot keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store in airtight containers and reheat gently on the stovetop, whisking in a splash of broth or cream if it gets too thick while reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use reduced-fat cream cheese. Want to make it with hashbrowns? Try this crockpot potato soup with hashbrowns by using 2 pounds of frozen hashbrowns instead of fresh potatoes. For extra loaded flavor, add more bacon, cheese, and a dollop of sour cream on top.
What to Serve With Crockpot Potato Soup
This hearty soup pairs perfectly with crusty sourdough bread, warm dinner rolls, or grilled cheese sandwiches. My family loves dunking buttery biscuits right into their bowls, creating the most satisfying comfort food experience that warms you from the inside out.
FAQs About Crockpot Potato Soup
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I freeze this soup?
Potato soups don't freeze well because the dairy can separate. It's best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
How do I prevent the soup from curdling?
Keep the heat on low when adding dairy ingredients and stir gently. Never boil the soup once cream has been added, as high heat can cause curdling.
What if my soup is too thick?
Simply stir in additional chicken broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency. Add liquid gradually while the soup is still warm.
More Recipes You'll Love
If you're craving more soups in crockpot easy recipes, these comfort food favorites never disappoint. My slow cooker Bisquick chicken and dumplings fills hearts on cold evenings. The creamy Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup brings ultimate comfort to your Dinner table. This hearty beef stew warms souls with tender meat and vegetables.
Made it your way? I'd love to see it! Tag @AlianaRecipes on Pinterest and show off your delicious version.
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe:
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