Creamy Crock Pot Potato Soup with Bacon and Cheddar

If you’re craving a warm and comforting meal that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl, you’re in for a treat with this Creamy Crock Pot Potato Soup with Bacon and Cheddar. This dish combines tender potatoes, smoky bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese cooked low and slow to create a rich, velvety soup that’s perfect for chilly days or anytime comfort food calls your name. Whether you’re new to slow cooker meals or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward, satisfying, and bound to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Toss everything into your Crock Pot and let it work its magic without constant supervision.
• Ultimate Comfort Food: The creamy texture and savory flavors make it ideal for cozy family dinners or meal prep.
• Flavor-Packed: Smoky bacon and sharp cheddar balance beautifully with smooth potatoes for a rich taste explosion.
• Customizable: Easily tweak ingredients, add toppings, or adjust seasoning to fit your preferences.
• Great for Leftovers: This soup tastes just as delicious reheated and actually deepens in flavor overnight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamy Crock Pot Potato Soup with Bacon and Cheddar uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that contribute layers of flavor, creaminess, and color—making it surprisingly rich for such an easy recipe.

• Russet Potatoes: Starchy potatoes that break down into creamy chunks and thicken the soup.
• Smoked Bacon: Adds crispy texture and smoky depth to every spoonful.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Melts perfectly into the soup, providing a tangy, rich finish.
• Onion and Garlic: Adds savory aroma and a base flavor that supports the cheesy bacon star players.
• Chicken Broth: Creates a flavorful foundation and keeps the soup silky but not too heavy.
• Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: Gives the soup its luscious creaminess without overpowering the other flavors.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning to bring all the ingredients together.
• Optional: Green Onions or Chives: For a fresh, mild oniony crunch atop the soup.

Variations for Creamy Crock Pot Potato Soup with Bacon and Cheddar

Feel free to tailor this Creamy Crock Pot Potato Soup with Bacon and Cheddar to your taste or dietary needs—it’s super versatile and ready to accommodate creative tweaks.

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to keep that smoky goodness.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in diced carrots, celery, or corn for texture and nutrition.
• Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for gouda, pepper jack, or a blend for a new flavor twist.
• Lightened Up: Use milk instead of cream and turkey bacon to cut calories while still savoring the flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.

How to Make Creamy Crock Pot Potato Soup with Bacon and Cheddar

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping the bacon into bite-sized pieces and cooking it in a skillet until crispy. Set aside but leave the rendered fat if you want extra flavor. Next, peel and cube the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate. Dice the onion and mince the garlic to build that flavorful base.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot

Place the cubed potatoes, cooked bacon, onion, garlic, chicken broth, salt, and pepper into your slow cooker. Stir gently to mix everything. Pour in the cream or half-and-half but hold off on adding the cheddar until later to prevent it from curdling during the long cook time.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Set the Crock Pot to low and let it simmer for about 6 to 8 hours. This slow, gentle cooking softens the potatoes completely, allowing them to release their natural starch and thicken the soup. The flavors meld together, creating a rich, comforting broth.

Step 4: Blend and Add Cheese

About 30 minutes before serving, use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, leaving some potato chunks for texture. Then stir in the sharp cheddar cheese until melted smoothly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle your Creamy Crock Pot Potato Soup with Bacon and Cheddar into bowls and top with fresh green onions, extra bacon bits, or whatever garnish you like!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Crock Pot Potato Soup with Bacon and Cheddar

• Potato Size Matters: Cut potatoes evenly to ensure consistent cooking and texture.
• Don’t Rush the Low Setting: Cooking low and slow heightens flavors and keeps soup silky.
• Add Cheese at the End: Prevents cheese from breaking or turning grainy in the slow cooker.
• Use Quality Broth: A good chicken broth makes a world of difference in flavor depth.
• Reserve Some Bacon: Save crispy pieces for garnish to add a delightful crunch with each bite.

How to Serve Creamy Crock Pot Potato Soup with Bacon and Cheddar

Garnishes

Top your soup with finely chopped green onions, extra crumbled crispy bacon, or a sprinkling of shredded cheddar to enhance texture and flavor. A dollop of sour cream and fresh herbs like parsley or chives also make fantastic additions.

Side Dishes

This hearty soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread, warm dinner rolls, or a simple side salad to balance the richness. Add a fresh fruit plate or roasted veggies for a fuller meal experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it in small bread bowls for an inviting presentation or highlight it as a starter at dinner parties with mini portions and creative toppings like pickled jalapeños or crispy shallots for an elegant touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before reheating as the soup may thicken and separate slightly.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully. Cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months, but note cheese texture may slightly change after thawing.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to keep the soup creamy and prevent scorching.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, you can substitute russet potatoes with Yukon Gold for a buttery flavor or red potatoes for a firmer texture, but cooking times may vary slightly.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

Absolutely! Replace the cream and cheddar with coconut milk or cashew cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives to keep it creamy and delicious.

Can I prepare this recipe on the stovetop instead of a Crock Pot?

Yes, you can simmer all ingredients in a large pot over low heat for about an hour until potatoes are tender, just be sure to stir often to prevent sticking and add cheese gradually.

What is the best cheese to use for a creamy texture?

Sharp cheddar melts well and gives that classic flavor, but mild cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack are excellent options depending on your taste preference.

How can I make this soup thicker?

After cooking, partially blend the soup to break down some potato chunks and release starch, naturally thickening the soup without adding flour or cornstarch.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Crock Pot Potato Soup with Bacon and Cheddar is truly the ultimate slow cooker comfort food—rich, hearty, and bursting with flavor from every ingredient. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or savoring a simple night in, this soup promises hugs in a bowl with minimal effort. Grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a new go-to for cozy meals that warm both body and soul.

Related Posts

• Slow Cooker Hot and Sour Soup
• Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
• Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup

Print