Experience the ultimate comfort in a bowl with this Slow Cooker Creamy Potato Bacon Soup. With tender potatoes, smoky bacon, and a rich, creamy broth, this soup is pure warmth and coziness. Perfect for chilly nights or a simple yet satisfying dinner, this soup offers all the flavors you crave with minimal prep time, thanks to the slow cooker. Whether you’re serving a crowd or simply looking for a hearty meal, this recipe is a must-try!

Ingredients

• 1 lb potatoes, peeled and diced
• 0.13 lb bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion (about 0.15 lb), finely diced
• 1 medium carrot (about 0.13 lb), diced
• 2 celery stalks (about 0.13 lb), diced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp sour cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped chives for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Bacon: In a skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat, then cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving a small amount of bacon fat in the skillet.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery to the skillet, cooking in the reserved bacon fat for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Combine in Slow Cooker: Add the potatoes, sautéed vegetables, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper, cover, and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
4. Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency. For a chunkier soup, leave some potato pieces intact, or blend it all for a smoother texture.
5. Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and sour cream. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot, topped with crispy bacon and fresh chives if desired.

Notes

• Substitutions: Swap the heavy cream for whole milk or a dairy-free option for a lighter version.
• Enhancing Flavor: Add a few drops of liquid smoke for an extra smoky flavor if desired.
• Storage: Keep any leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to maintain the soup’s creamy texture.
• Nutritional Tip: Potatoes are high in vitamins C and B6, and using fresh ingredients will enhance both the flavor and health benefits.

This creamy, savory soup is guaranteed to become a family favorite, providing both comfort and rich flavor with each bowl. Enjoy!