Warm, comforting, and packed with flavor, Slow Cooker Creamy Potato Bacon Soup is the perfect dish to enjoy on a chilly day.
This hearty soup combines the rich, savory taste of crispy bacon with tender potatoes and a creamy broth, creating a delightful blend of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
6 slices bacon, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
1 onion, finely chopped
2 (10.5 ounce) cans condensed chicken broth
2 cups water
5 large potatoes, diced
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon dried dill weed
½ teaspoon ground white pepper
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups half-and-half cream
1 (12 fluid ounce) can evaporated milk
How To Make Slow Cooker Creamy Potato Bacon Soup
Place bacon and onion in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium-high heat until bacon is evenly brown and onions are soft. Drain off excess grease.
Transfer the bacon and onion to a slow cooker, and stir in chicken broth, water, potatoes, salt, dill weed, and white pepper.
Cover, and cook on Low 6 to 7 hours, stirring occasionally.
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and half-and-half. Stir into the soup along with the evaporated milk. Cover, and cook another 30 minutes before serving.
Variations for Slow Cooker Creamy Potato Bacon Soup
Cheesy Potato Bacon Soup:
Stir in 1 to 2 cups of shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Monterey Jack) during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a rich, cheesy flavor.
Loaded Potato Soup:
Add toppings like sour cream, green onions, shredded cheese, and additional crispy bacon when serving for a loaded baked potato experience.
Vegetable-Enhanced Soup:
Incorporate other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or corn for added nutrition and flavor. Just chop them into small pieces and add them to the slow cooker with the potatoes.
Spicy Potato Bacon Soup:
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. You can also use spicy bacon for an extra layer of heat.
Herbed Potato Soup:
Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley to enhance the flavor profile. Fresh herbs can be added during the last hour of cooking.
Creamy Vegan Version:
Substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms for a smoky flavor, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and replace half-and-half and evaporated milk with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free option.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration:
Leftover Soup: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or water to restore the desired consistency.
Freezing:
Freezing Soup: This soup can be frozen for longer storage. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing, so you may want to add a bit more liquid when reheating.
These variations and storage tips will help you customize your Slow Cooker Creamy Potato Bacon Soup to your liking and ensure you can enjoy it for days to come!