Slow Cooker Potato-Bacon Soup Recipe

Name: Slow Cooker Potato-Bacon Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 375 min
Total time: 390 min
Ingredients: 9 slices bacon; 1 onion, finely diced; 7 potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 3 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups half-and-half; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 3.25 cups shredded Cheddar-Monterey Jack cheese blend, divided; 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh chives, or to taste

Cook Time: 375 minutes

Ingredients

9 slices bacon
1 onion, finely diced
7 potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 teaspoon garlic powder
3 cups vegetable broth
2 cups half-and-half
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups shredded Cheddar-Monterey Jack cheese blend, divided
1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh chives, or to taste (Optional)

Directions

Place bacon in a large skillet and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until evenly browned, about 10 minutes. Drain bacon slices on paper towels and reserve the drippings in the pan. Crumble 6 strips of bacon, saving 3 for garnish.
Heat the bacon drippings over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion to the pan and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
Transfer the cooked onions, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, and cubed potatoes to a slow cooker. Pour the vegetable broth over the top.
Cook on Low for about 6 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the half-and-half and flour. Add the mixture to the slow cooker and use a whisk to mash some of the potatoes for a creamy texture.
Stir in 3 cups of the shredded Cheddar-Monterey Jack cheese blend. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the soup.
Crumble the remaining 3 strips of bacon and add them to the soup. Top the soup with the remaining cheese, crumbled bacon, and freshly chopped chives before serving.

Recipe Tip

You can use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth if preferred.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 380
Fat: 20g
Carbs: 35g
Protein: 16g

Nutrition Breakdown

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value
Total Fat	20g	25%
Saturated Fat	13g	63%
Cholesterol	60mg	20%
Sodium	581mg	25%
Total Carbohydrate	35g	13%
Dietary Fiber	4g	15%
Protein	16g	32%
Vitamin C	32mg	35%
Calcium	82mg	6%
Iron	2mg	9%
Potassium	777mg	17%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Slow Cooker Potato-Bacon Soup is a hearty, rich dish that brings together the perfect blend of creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and melty cheese. This soup is easy to prepare using a slow cooker, allowing you to create a filling, comforting meal with minimal effort. The flavors are simple yet robust, making it a perfect dish for cold winter nights or a cozy family dinner.

Origin and History

Potato soups have been a staple in many cultures, dating back to when potatoes were first introduced to Europe from the Americas in the 16th century. This particular recipe, however, is rooted in American comfort food traditions, where the slow cooker gained popularity in the 20th century. The addition of bacon and cheese to potato soup brings a delicious, savory twist, a variation that emerged with the American obsession with combining potatoes and bacon in various forms. Slow cooker recipes, in particular, became a household favorite as they provided an easy way to prepare meals while reducing hands-on time in the kitchen.

Regional Features and Variations

While the potato-bacon combination is widely enjoyed across the U.S., regional variations exist depending on local ingredients and traditions. For example, in the Midwest, where farming and potato cultivation are prevalent, potato soups are often made richer by adding cream and cheese. In the South, bacon and green onions are frequently added, sometimes along with a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cheese on top. This recipe for Slow Cooker Potato-Bacon Soup reflects a blend of these traditions, offering a creamy, satisfying bowl of soup that can be personalized with different toppings or seasonings according to regional tastes.

Distinction from Similar Dishes

Potato soup is a common dish in many cuisines, but what sets this slow cooker version apart is the method of preparation and the inclusion of bacon and cheese. Traditional potato soups might be lighter or less indulgent, focusing more on the potatoes and broth. This recipe, however, takes it a step further by adding the richness of bacon fat, the sharpness of Cheddar-Monterey Jack cheese, and the creamy texture provided by half-and-half. Additionally, using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together slowly, creating a deeply satisfying and easy-to-make meal that is perfect for busy evenings.

Where Its Served

Slow Cooker Potato-Bacon Soup is typically served in casual, homey settings, ideal for family meals or gatherings with friends. It is a popular dish for colder months, often featured on winter menus in diners or as part of comfort food offerings in restaurants. It pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad, making it versatile enough for both a hearty lunch or a fulfilling dinner. The dish is perfect for cozy nights in, providing warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful.

Fun Facts

The potato is one of the most consumed vegetables worldwide, and its versatility makes it a key ingredient in countless dishes, including soups, stews, and salads.
Bacon, often referred to as natures candy, is beloved for its smoky flavor and crispy texture, making it a frequent addition to many dishes to enhance the overall taste.
The slow cooker was invented in the 1940s and became popular in the 1970s, transforming meal preparation by allowing people to prepare complex dishes with minimal active cooking time.
In addition to its comfort factor, the Slow Cooker Potato-Bacon Soup is highly customizable. You can adjust the types of cheese or add toppings like sour cream, chives, or crumbled prosciutto for extra flair.

Whether youre cooking for a family gathering or simply craving a delicious, filling meal, this Slow Cooker Potato-Bacon Soup is a surefire way to bring comfort to the table. Its rich, creamy texture and savory flavors will make it a favorite in your recipe rotation.

FAQ about Slow Cooker Potato-Bacon Soup Recipe

Leftover potato-bacon soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it for a longer period, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to allow the soup to cool before storing, and when reheating, add a little extra liquid if needed, as it may thicken over time.

Yes, you can use different types of potatoes, but the texture may vary. Russet potatoes are commonly used for soups as they break down easily and create a creamy texture. If you use waxy potatoes like red potatoes, they will hold their shape better and result in a chunkier soup.

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time. In fact, it may even taste better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. Simply refrigerate the soup after it cools, and reheat when ready to serve. If the soup has thickened too much after storing, you can add a bit of milk or broth to thin it out.

Yes, you can substitute half-and-half with heavy cream for a richer, creamier texture, or you can use whole milk for a lighter option. If you're looking for a dairy-free version, try using a non-dairy milk like almond milk or coconut milk, although it will alter the flavor slightly.

If the soup is too thin, you can thicken it by mashing some of the cooked potatoes directly in the slow cooker, or by blending a portion of the soup and then returning it to the pot. Alternatively, you can mix a little flour with some of the soup broth and then stir it back into the soup.

Yes, if you're looking for a vegetarian or lower-fat version, you can use turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon alternative. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still give a smoky element to the soup.

If the potatoes overcook and start turning to mush, you can blend some of the soup to create a smoother texture. You can also adjust the seasonings to balance the flavors. For future reference, check the potatoes for tenderness after about 1.5-2 hours if using a faster slow cooker, or adjust the cook time accordingly.

You can customize your soup with a variety of toppings such as shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh herbs like parsley or chives. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper can also add extra flavor.

Yes, you can make this soup on the stovetop. Simply sauté the bacon and onions in a large pot, then add the potatoes, garlic powder, and broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until the potatoes are tender (about 20-30 minutes). Then follow the remaining steps to add the half-and-half, flour, and cheese.

Adjusting the seasoning is easy! Taste the soup towards the end of cooking and add salt and pepper to your liking. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper for additional flavor. If the soup is too bland, a little extra salt and pepper can make a big difference.

Comments

Jessica Phillips

05/12/2023 06:17:37 AM

Review: 3.10.20 The timing for this recipe is way off. I used the slow cooker function on my Instant Pot, checked at 2 hours, and found the potatoes to be not just cooked, but actually overcooked. I didn't even need to whisk the potatoes because they were already turning into mush. It's possible I diced the potatoes smaller than recommended, but I suggest checking for doneness around 1-1/2 hours. Cooking all the bacon strips resulted in an excessive amount of bacon fat, so I kept only about 2 tablespoons to brown the onions. The dish lacked flavor and required a generous amount of salt and pepper. Instead of a Cheddar-Monterey Jack blend, I used both cheeses separately, which worked well and melted beautifully after a few stirs. I substituted fat-free half-and-half since that's what I had on hand. Despite the need for some adjustments, the final result was a creamy and delicious potato soup that I would make again with the modifications mentioned.

Charles Moore

08/15/2023 01:39:03 PM

The recipe called for 7 potatoes, but it was unclear what type or size to use. I ended up using large russets which resulted in the soup taking longer to cook and the potatoes not breaking down as expected. After an extra hour of cooking on high, I had to blend some of the soup to thicken it. However, once I did that, the soup turned out great with fantastic flavor. I recommend adding plenty of salt for extra taste. Next time, I suggest specifying the type, weight, or number of potatoes for better results.

Donald Jackson

08/02/2022 04:11:45 PM

I made some adjustments to the original recipe since I didn't have half and half, so I used whole milk instead. This substitution seemed to affect the texture a bit. I also added minced garlic and a splash of crushed black pepper for a bit of flavor. The cooking time was slightly longer than expected, so I started mashing the potatoes after 5 hours instead of 6, which worked out fine. The end result was a tasty and thick dish, perfect for a cold December evening. However, after a few hours, it started to turn into mashed potatoes, especially when reheated later. Next time, I will try adding more liquids or using fewer potatoes to prevent this from happening.

Brenda Anderson

09/23/2022 05:31:01 AM

I absolutely loved it! The flavors were delicious, and the taste was great. The only downside was that the potatoes were a bit soft, but it didn't take away from my enjoyment. I think adding a little more crushed bacon on top would make it even better, and the green onions were the perfect finishing touch. Serving it with sourdough bread and butter really elevated the whole meal.

Elizabeth Miller

01/07/2024 02:30:33 AM

Yummy! It could use a bit of salt and pepper, but that's a quick fix. I added crumbled prosciutto, cheese, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream on top of mine.

Steven Clark

04/01/2024 04:45:37 AM

I utilized chicken broth and seasoned with salt and pepper. The recipe turned out incredibly delicious. This will definitely become a regular item on our menu!

Jason Ramirez

01/10/2025 02:58:52 AM

Excellent! The food was deliciously thick and satisfying.

Rachel Torres

01/29/2025 10:45:56 PM

Absolutely fantastic and incredibly simple to make, I will definitely be preparing this dish over and over again.

Melissa Moore

12/07/2024 05:47:43 PM

This recipe is so simple to make and absolutely delicious! The whole family enjoyed it!

audio version

Cook Time: 25 minutes