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The Best Kid-Approved Crockpot Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

crockpot loaded baked potato soup - featured image

This creamy, cheesy, and bacon-loaded potato soup is made entirely in the crockpot. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it dinner that kids and adults alike will love, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: extra shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, sour cream

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate with a slotted spoon. Do not drain the skillet.
  2. In the same skillet with the bacon fat, sauté the diced onion for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more until fragrant.
  3. Add the diced potatoes, cooked onion and garlic, and chicken broth to a 6-quart or larger crockpot. Stir to combine. The broth should just cover the potatoes; add a little more broth or water if needed.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
  5. Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher to gently mash about half of them right in the crockpot, leaving some chunks for texture.
  6. Stir in the whole milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth.
  7. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
  8. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon, extra shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped green onions if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, do not skip sautéing the onion and garlic in bacon fat. Add dairy at the end to prevent curdling. Shred your own cheese for smooth melting. If the soup is too thick, stir in a splash of warm broth or milk. Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot potato soup, loaded baked potato soup, kid-friendly soup, slow cooker soup, easy dinner, comfort food