Slow Cooker Creamy Potato Bacon Soup: The Perfect Comfort Food
When it comes to comfort food, few things can rival a warm, creamy bowl of potato soup. This Slow Cooker Creamy Potato Bacon Soup combines the hearty texture of potatoes, the smoky flavor of bacon, and a rich, velvety broth to create a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a meal to warm you up on a chilly day or a recipe to impress your family, this soup is a winner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need for this recipe:
- 6 slices bacon, cut into ½-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
These ingredients work together harmoniously to create a soup that’s rich in flavor and texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Bacon and Onion The first step in creating this delectable soup is cooking the bacon and onion. Here’s how:
- In a large, deep skillet, cook the bacon and onion over medium-high heat.
- Stir frequently to ensure the bacon is evenly browned and the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Once cooked, drain off any excess grease to avoid an overly oily soup.
Transfer to the Slow Cooker After cooking the bacon and onion, it’s time to transfer them to the slow cooker. Follow these steps:
- Place the bacon and onion mixture into the slow cooker.
- Add the chicken broth, water, diced potatoes, salt, dill weed, and ground white pepper.
- Stir everything together to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Cook the Soup This is where the magic of the slow cooker comes in. Here’s what you need to do:
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
- Set it to cook on Low for 6 to 7 hours.
- Stir occasionally to check on the consistency and ensure the potatoes are cooking evenly.
- The soup is ready for the next step when the potatoes are tender.
Thicken the Soup To give the soup its creamy consistency, you’ll need to thicken it. Follow these instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and half-and-half until smooth.
- Gradually stir this mixture into the slow cooker.
- Add the evaporated milk and stir to combine.
Cook a Bit More To allow the soup to thicken and the flavors to meld:
- Cover the slow cooker again.
- Cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to check the thickness and ensure even cooking.
Serve and Enjoy Finally, it’s time to serve your delicious creation:
- Give the soup a final stir to ensure a smooth consistency.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for this recipe due to their starchy texture.
- Customize the Flavor: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder for extra depth of flavor.
- Make It Lighter: Substitute the half-and-half with milk or a dairy-free alternative to reduce the calorie content.
- Prep Ahead: Dice the potatoes and chop the onion the night before to save time in the morning.
Why This Recipe Works The combination of slow cooking and carefully chosen ingredients ensures this soup is packed with flavor. The slow cooker allows the potatoes to become tender and soak up the smoky essence of the bacon, while the addition of evaporated milk and half-and-half creates a luxuriously creamy base. This recipe is also incredibly versatile, making it easy to adapt to your taste preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use pre-cooked bacon? Yes, you can use pre-cooked bacon to save time. Simply chop it into small pieces and add it to the slow cooker along with the onion.
Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to adjust the consistency.
Can I make this soup vegetarian? Absolutely! Substitute the bacon with smoked tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How can I make the soup thicker? If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the cooked potatoes with a potato masher before adding the flour mixture.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling, as it may cause the cream to separate.
With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and hearty ingredients, this Slow Cooker Creamy Potato Bacon Soup is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try, and let the comforting aroma fill your home!