There’s nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of creamy potato bacon soup on a chilly day. This hearty slow cooker recipe is the ultimate combination of tender potatoes, smoky bacon, and a velvety cream base that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or want to prep a make-ahead meal that simmers to perfection while you go about your day, this soup is pure comfort food magic. The best part? With the slow cooker, the flavors meld together beautifully with minimal effort, making this dish as easy as it is irresistible.
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Ingredients & Their Roles
6–7 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced – The star of the dish, giving the soup its hearty texture and natural creaminess as they cook down.
1 large onion, finely chopped – Adds a sweet, savory depth to balance the richness of the cream and bacon.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the soup with a robust, aromatic flavor.
6 cups chicken broth – Provides a flavorful, savory base that keeps the soup light while still hearty.
1 teaspoon dried thyme – A subtle herb that enhances the earthy flavors of the potatoes.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Accentuates the bacon’s smokiness while adding a mild kick.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Essential seasonings to elevate every bite.
8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled – The smoky, savory highlight of the soup; some mixed in, some saved for garnish.
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half) – Creates the signature creamy, silky texture.
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese – Melts into the soup, adding richness and a tangy flavor contrast.
2 tablespoons butter – Helps smooth out the texture and deepen flavor.
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Thickens the soup into a luscious, spoon-coating consistency.
Fresh chives or green onions, chopped – A fresh, vibrant garnish to brighten each serving.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the slow cooker base.
Place the diced potatoes, onion, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
2. Cook low and slow.
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Mash for creaminess.
Using a potato masher, lightly mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the slow cooker. This helps thicken the soup while still leaving chunks for texture.
4. Make the cream base.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, cooking until smooth and slightly thickened.
5. Combine and enrich.
Stir the cream mixture and cheddar cheese into the slow cooker. Mix well until the cheese melts and the soup turns luxuriously creamy.
6. Add the bacon.
Stir in most of the crumbled bacon, reserving some for topping.
7. Finish and serve.
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with extra bacon, shredded cheese, and fresh chives, then serve hot.
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Why This Recipe Is Loved
Hands-off cooking – The slow cooker does most of the work, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Rich and satisfying – The creamy potato base paired with smoky bacon creates the perfect comfort food.
Versatile – Can be made thicker or lighter depending on preference, and is easy to customize with toppings.
Crowd-pleaser – Loved by kids and adults alike, this soup always disappears fast.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Potato Bacon Soup
Use starchy potatoes like russets or Yukon golds for the creamiest texture.
Cook the bacon until crispy for the best flavor and texture in every bite.
For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or swap in Greek yogurt at the end.
If you prefer extra thickness, stir in instant mashed potato flakes at the end.
Want a smoother soup? Use an immersion blender to partially blend before adding the cream.
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Serving Suggestions
This creamy potato bacon soup is hearty enough to shine on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:
Crusty artisan bread or warm dinner rolls for dipping.
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness.
Grilled cheese sandwiches for the ultimate comfort-food duo.
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Final Thoughts
This slow cooker creamy potato bacon soup is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple ingredients, easy steps, and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again. Perfect for weeknights, lazy Sundays, or when you need to feed a hungry crowd, this soup is simple, delicious, and unforgettable.
Make this once, and it’ll quickly become a family favorite—a timeless recipe that’s both cozy and satisfying.
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