Ultimate Crockpot Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

Introduction

Hey there! I’m Jenny, and today I’m thrilled to share my ultimate recipe for Crockpot Loaded Baked Potato Soup. This heartwarming soup is not just a dish; it’s an experience, a hug in a bowl, especially perfect for chilly New Jersey evenings.

Cooking and baking are my passions, and when my son joins me in the kitchen, it transforms the experience into a delightful bonding moment. This soup recipe is an easy way for families to gather around the table and enjoy a comforting meal together.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chives for garnish

These ingredients are simple and accessible, allowing everyone to whip up this delicious soup with ease. Remember, using fresh potatoes and quality cheese makes a huge difference in flavor!

Timing

This recipe is incredibly flexible, making it perfect for busy families. Here’s a breakdown of the timings:

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 6-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high
• Total time: 6-8 hours (depending on cooking method)

With these timings, you can set it and forget it while you go about your day, which is one of the best parts of using a crockpot!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now let’s get to the fun part—making the soup! Follow these simple steps:

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by peeling and dicing the russet potatoes. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. These fresh ingredients will create a flavorful base for your soup.

2. Combine in the Crockpot

Place the diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and chicken broth into the crockpot. Stir everything together to mix well.

3. Set the Cooking Time

Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The longer it cooks, the more flavorful it will become!

4. Add Cream and Cheese

Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. This will make your soup rich and creamy.

5. Blend for a Smooth Texture

If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree some of the potatoes. This step is optional, but it gives a lovely texture.

6. Add Bacon and Season

Finally, stir in the crumbled bacon, and season with salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust the seasoning based on your preference!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional information per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g

This soup is hearty and filling, perfect for satisfying those hunger pangs.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to make this dish a bit healthier, consider these alternatives:

• Use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream.
• Replace bacon with turkey bacon or omit it altogether.
• Add extra vegetables like broccoli or carrots for added nutrition.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce sodium content.

These swaps can help make the recipe lighter while still keeping it delicious!

Serving Suggestions

This Crockpot Loaded Baked Potato Soup is perfect on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

• Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping.
• Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Top with extra cheese, sour cream, and chives for added flavor.

Each of these options enhances the experience and makes your meal even more enjoyable!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best of us can make mistakes in the kitchen. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not peeling the potatoes thoroughly, which can lead to a gritty texture.
• Skipping the seasoning, as it can make the soup bland.
• Overcooking the potatoes, resulting in a mushy soup.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time!

Storage Tips

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store your soup:

• Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Conclusion

My Crockpot Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a warm, comforting dish that brings families together, just like my own cooking philosophy. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do!

This recipe is not only easy to follow but also a delightful way to create lasting memories in the kitchen, especially with your loved ones.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just add a little more cream or broth if it thickens too much.

What if I don’t have a crockpot?

No worries! You can make this soup on the stovetop. Just simmer the ingredients on medium heat until the potatoes are tender, then follow the remaining steps.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Sure! While russet potatoes provide the best texture, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a slightly different flavor.

Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining me today in making this ultimate crockpot recipe! I hope you and your family love this Crockpot Loaded Baked Potato Soup as much as we do. Remember, cooking is about enjoying the process and making memories, so have fun with it!

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