When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup. Creamy Potato Bacon Soup made in a slow cooker is a perfect way to indulge in cozy, hearty flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.
This delicious soup combines crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and a rich, velvety cream base, all cooked together to create a satisfying meal.
The best part? You can set it and forget it, letting your slow cooker work its magic while you go about your day. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner, a weekend family gathering, or a cozy meal after a busy day, this creamy potato bacon soup will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients:
To create this creamy and flavorful soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 6 slices of bacon, cut into ½-inch pieces
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) chicken broth
- 2 cups of water
- 5 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into small cubes
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon dried dill weed
- ½ teaspoon white pepper
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half-and-half cream
- 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Bacon and Onion
To begin, grab a large frying pan and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the diced bacon and onions to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the bacon becomes crispy and the onions turn tender and translucent. This process should take about 5-7 minutes. Once everything is cooked, drain off any excess bacon grease to prevent the soup from becoming too greasy.
Step 2: Transfer to the Slow Cooker
Once the bacon and onions are ready, transfer them into your slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth and water, followed by the chopped potatoes. The potatoes are the star of the dish, adding a creamy texture once they’re cooked through. Add the salt, dried dill, and white pepper to the mixture. These seasonings will bring a depth of flavor to the soup and balance out the richness of the cream. Stir everything together to combine.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let it cook for 6 to 7 hours, stirring occasionally. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, and the potatoes will become tender, adding creaminess to the broth. If you’re in a hurry, you can set it on high for 3-4 hours, but the low setting really allows the ingredients to fully develop their flavors.
Step 4: Thicken the Soup
After the soup has cooked and the potatoes are tender, it’s time to thicken the soup and add the creamy texture that makes this dish so indulgent. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and half-and-half cream until smooth. This mixture will help thicken the soup without forming lumps. Pour this creamy mixture into the slow cooker along with the evaporated milk. Stir everything to combine.
Step 5: Cook for Another 30 Minutes
Once you’ve added the flour and milk mixture, cover the slow cooker again and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes. During this time, the soup will thicken, and the flavors will continue to develop. If the soup becomes too thick, you can add a little more water or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the soup has thickened and is bubbling away, it’s ready to serve! Ladle the creamy potato bacon soup into bowls and enjoy a warm, hearty meal. For an added touch, you can garnish each bowl with extra crispy bacon bits, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Potato Bacon Soup made in a slow cooker is the ultimate comfort food that you can enjoy any time of year. The crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and creamy broth come together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that’s both rich and satisfying. Plus, the hands-off cooking process makes it incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to focus on other tasks while it simmers away.
Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, gather your ingredients, set the slow cooker, and let this creamy, flavorful soup become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Enjoy your bowl of warmth and comfort, and savor the delicious combination of bacon, potatoes, and cream in every spoonful!
