Crockpot 'Baked' Potato Soup

Crockpot 'Baked' Potato Soup Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 4-8 hours | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Crockpot 'Baked' Potato Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe is easy to make and is sure to become a family favorite.

History

Potato soup has been a popular dish for centuries, with variations found in many different cultures around the world. The crockpot version of this classic soup is a modern twist on a traditional favorite, making it even easier to prepare and enjoy.

Ingredients

6 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 0.5 inch cubes (about 3.75 lb or 1.70 kg)
1 large onion, chopped (about 1.5 cup)
3 cans (14 oz or 397 g each) chicken broth with roasted garlic
0.25 cup butter
2.5 tsp salt
1.25 tsp freshly ground pepper
1 cup whipping cream or half-and-half
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (4 oz or 113 g)
3 tbsp chopped fresh chives
1 container (8 oz or 227 g) sour cream (optional)
4 bacon slices, cooked and crumbled
shredded cheddar cheese

How to prepare

Combine the first 6 ingredients in a 5 qt (4.73 liter) slow cooker.
Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 8 hours until the potatoes are tender.
Mash the mixture until the potatoes are coarsely chopped and the soup is slightly thickened.
Stir in the whipping cream, cheese, and chives.
Top with sour cream if desired and sprinkle with bacon and cheddar cheese before serving.

Variations

Add cooked ham or chicken for a protein boost.
Stir in some chopped broccoli or cauliflower for added vegetables.
Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or Swiss, for a unique flavor profile.

Notes

Reduce the fat in this soup by using fat free half-and-half along with reduced fat cheese and sour cream.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to peel and cut the potatoes into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking.

- Cooking the soup on low heat for a longer period of time will allow the flavors to meld together and create a rich and delicious broth.

- Adding the half-and-half, cheese, and chives at the end of cooking will give the soup a creamy and indulgent texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Crockpot 'Baked' Potato Soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

The slow cooking method used in this recipe allows the flavors to develop and meld together, creating a rich and flavorful soup.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Yukon Gold or red potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a different texture.

- Substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this soup.

Make Ahead Tips

Crockpot 'Baked' Potato Soup can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each bowl of soup with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of bacon, and a handful of shredded cheddar cheese for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Crockpot 'Baked' Potato Soup with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay, or a light beer for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Crockpot 'Baked' Potato Soup contains approximately 380 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Crockpot 'Baked' Potato Soup contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Crockpot 'Baked' Potato Soup contains approximately 18 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Crockpot 'Baked' Potato Soup contains approximately 12 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and B vitamins. This soup also contains calcium and vitamin A from the cheese and chives.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter, half-and-half, cheese, sour cream) and bacon, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Crockpot 'Baked' Potato Soup is a rich and creamy dish that is high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Crockpot 'Baked' Potato Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This easy-to-make recipe is sure to become a family favorite for years to come.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Crockpot 'Baked' Potato Soup. It was a cold winter day, and I was craving something warm and comforting to make for dinner. I had some potatoes, onions, and bacon on hand, so I decided to search for a recipe that would incorporate these ingredients. That's when I came across this gem of a recipe that promised a creamy and delicious soup that would fill the house with a comforting aroma.

The recipe called for simple ingredients that I already had in my pantry, and the method seemed easy enough – just throw everything into the crockpot and let it simmer away for a few hours. I was intrigued by the idea of making a 'baked' potato soup in a crockpot, as I had never tried anything like it before. It seemed like the perfect dish to warm us up on a chilly evening.

I followed the recipe to a T, chopping up the potatoes and onions, crisping up the bacon, and adding everything to the crockpot along with some chicken broth and seasonings. I set it to cook on low and went about my day, eagerly anticipating the delicious meal that would be waiting for us come dinnertime.

As the hours passed, the aroma of the soup cooking filled the house, making my mouth water in anticipation. When it was finally time to dig in, I ladled out steaming bowls of the creamy soup, garnishing them with shredded cheese, chives, and a dollop of sour cream. The first spoonful was like a warm hug from the inside out – creamy, flavorful, and oh so comforting.

My family devoured the soup, each of us going back for seconds and even thirds. It was a hit, and I knew that this recipe would be a staple in our meal rotation from then on. The combination of the tender potatoes, savory bacon, and creamy broth was a match made in culinary heaven.

I couldn't help but think back to how I had come across this recipe. It wasn't from a fancy cookbook or a renowned chef – it was a simple find on a cooking blog that I stumbled upon by chance. It just goes to show that you never know where you might find a hidden culinary gem.

Over the years, I've made this Crockpot 'Baked' Potato Soup countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit our tastes. Sometimes I add extra veggies like carrots and celery, or swap out the bacon for ham. Each variation is delicious in its own way, but the original recipe will always hold a special place in my heart.

I've shared this recipe with friends and family, and it's always met with rave reviews. There's something about a warm bowl of potato soup that brings people together, creating memories around the dinner table that will last a lifetime.

As I sit here reminiscing about the first time I made this soup, I can't help but feel grateful for the simple pleasures that cooking has brought into my life. It's not just about nourishing our bodies – it's about nourishing our souls, creating moments of joy and connection with the ones we love.

So here's to the humble crockpot 'baked' potato soup – a recipe that has brought warmth and comfort into our home time and time again. May it continue to fill our bellies and our hearts for years to come.