Baked Potato Soup Crock Pot Recipe

Baked potato soup is one of those comfort foods that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Rich, creamy, and hearty, this dish is a perfect blend of flavors that’s both filling and soothing. And when you make it in the crock pot, it’s even easier to prepare, allowing you to throw everything in, set it, and forget it while the magic happens.

The beauty of baked potato soup is that it’s incredibly customizable. You can adjust the ingredients to match your tastes or even dietary needs. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a game night, or just to indulge on a chilly evening, this crock pot recipe will become a go-to favorite for sure.

Let’s dive into this simple, yet luxurious recipe that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Baked Potato Soup Crock Pot Recipe

Making baked potato soup in a crock pot means you get the rich, creamy goodness of the soup without having to babysit the stove. Plus, using the crock pot allows the flavors to blend together in the most delicious, slow-cooked way. Here’s how to create a bowl of soup that’s as satisfying as a baked potato, but in liquid form.

Ingredients Needed

To create the perfect crock pot baked potato soup, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Don’t worry-this recipe doesn’t require any obscure ingredients or crazy techniques. It’s all about layering flavors and letting them meld together over time. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 large russet potatoes – These are the classic choice for baked potatoes, and they work wonderfully in this soup. The texture breaks down perfectly to create a rich, creamy base.
• 1 medium onion – For that savory depth of flavor. You’ll chop this finely to blend it into the soup base.
• 3 cloves garlic – Garlic adds that aromatic element to make the soup irresistible.
• 4 cups chicken broth – You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. The broth will form the soup’s base and infuse it with flavor.
• 1 cup milk – To make the soup creamy and smooth. You can use whole milk for a richer texture, but any milk will do.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – This adds richness and velvety smoothness to the soup.
• 8 oz cream cheese – A key ingredient for achieving that super creamy texture, plus it adds a tangy flavor.
• 1 tsp salt – To season the soup, but be mindful of the saltiness of your broth.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper – For just a touch of heat.
• 1/2 tsp paprika – Adds a slight smokiness to balance the creamy richness.
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese – A must for that cheesy flavor, and it also melts beautifully into the soup.
• 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits – Bacon gives a salty crunch and a smoky flavor, which balances the creamy soup.
• Green onions or chives – For garnish, adding freshness and a pop of color.

Cooking Instructions

Here’s the step-by-step process for making baked potato soup in the crock pot. It’s as easy as 1-2-3, and you’ll be amazed at how delicious the final result is.

1. Prep The Potatoes

   • Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into small cubes. This helps them cook faster and break down easier during the slow cooking process.

2. Sauté The Onion And Garlic (Optional, But Recommended)

   • Heat a small pan over medium heat and sauté the chopped onions until they become soft and translucent (about 5 minutes). Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. This step isn’t mandatory, but it really helps to bring out the savory flavors.

3. Combine In The Crock Pot

   • Add the cubed potatoes, sautéed onions and garlic, chicken broth, milk, heavy cream, and cream cheese into the crock pot. Stir everything together so the cream cheese begins to dissolve and everything is evenly distributed.

4. Cook On Low

   • Cover and cook on low heat for 7-8 hours or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. You want the potatoes to break apart and blend into the broth as it cooks.

5. Mash The Potatoes

   • Once the potatoes are fully cooked, use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash the potatoes directly in the crock pot to your desired texture. If you like a chunkier soup, mash lightly. For a smoother soup, blend it more thoroughly.

6. Stir In The Cheese And Seasonings

   • Add in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup becomes rich and creamy.

7. Add Toppings

   • Serve the soup in bowls and top with cooked bacon bits, chopped green onions or chives, and extra cheese if desired.

Ingredient Insights

The ingredients in baked potato soup work together to create layers of flavor, richness, and creaminess. Here are a few insights into why these particular ingredients make the recipe shine:

• Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are starchy, which helps to thicken the soup naturally. When they cook down, they add both texture and flavor, making the soup hearty and filling.
• Cream Cheese & Heavy Cream: These two ingredients are essential for that ultra-creamy texture. The cream cheese adds a tangy bite, while the heavy cream gives the soup its richness.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar complements the creamy base and gives the soup that authentic baked potato flavor. Plus, the melty cheese creates a smooth finish in every spoonful.
• Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky depth of flavor and a salty crunch that balances the creamy elements. It’s the perfect contrast to the smooth soup.
• Chicken Broth: The broth creates a savory base that ties all the ingredients together. It also adds depth, especially when simmered for hours in the slow cooker.

Expert Tips

If you want to take your baked potato soup to the next level, here are a few expert tips to consider:

• Don’t skip the sautéing step for the onions and garlic-even if you’re pressed for time. While you can throw everything in without sautéing, this step helps to develop deeper flavors and enhances the aroma.
• Use an immersion blender for smoothness: If you want a super velvety soup, an immersion blender is a game-changer. It lets you blend the soup directly in the crock pot without transferring it to a separate blender.
• Adjust the consistency: If the soup is too thick for your liking, you can thin it out by adding a bit more milk or broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Add toppings just before serving: Bacon, cheese, and green onions should be added as toppings, not mixed in too early, to keep them fresh and crispy.
• Make it a day ahead: This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Make it in advance and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Recipe Variations

There are endless ways to customize your baked potato soup. Here are a few variations to consider:

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add in extra veggies like carrots, celery, or even spinach for added texture and flavor.
• Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Add extra toppings like sour cream, extra bacon, or even crumbled sausage to turn your soup into a full-on loaded potato experience.
• Spicy Baked Potato Soup: Add some heat by incorporating a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For an extra kick, top with sliced jalapeños and a drizzle of sour cream.
• Slow-Cooked Chicken Baked Potato Soup: Toss in some boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs for added protein. Let it cook with the potatoes and shred it at the end for a chicken-packed version.
• Vegan Version: Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of dairy, and substitute the cream cheese and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives. You can also use tempeh or smoked tofu for the “bacon” element.

Final Words

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a steaming bowl of baked potato soup, especially when it’s made in the crock pot. This recipe is simple, but it delivers all the rich, creamy goodness you crave. The combination of tender potatoes, savory broth, and indulgent toppings creates a soup that’s comforting, filling, and perfect for almost any occasion.

From the creamy base to the crispy bacon bits, this soup strikes a balance between hearty and rich. And with the slow cooker doing all the work, you get all the benefits of a homemade meal with minimal effort. So, if you haven’t tried making baked potato soup in a crock pot yet, this recipe will convince you just how easy and delicious it can be!