Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Soup: Cozy Comfort in Every Bowl

Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Few dishes rival the creamy, hearty satisfaction of loaded potato soup. This slow cooker recipe transforms simple ingredients into a rich, savory meal that’s perfect for cozy evenings, busy weeknights, or family gatherings. With flavorful potatoes, savory bacon, gooey cheese, and a velvety texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Prep: Minimal chopping and prep work—let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting.
• Rich and Hearty: Creamy potatoes, bacon, cheese, and a dash of ranch create a satisfying, loaded flavor.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite toppings or adjust the thickness to match your preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores and reheats beautifully for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting soup:

• 1 (28-ounce) bag frozen O’Brien hash brown potatoes
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of celery soup
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 (1-ounce) package dry ranch dressing mix
• 1 (3-ounce) bag bacon bits, divided
• 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Ingredient Spotlight: What Makes This Soup “Loaded”?

• O’Brien Hash Browns: Pre-chopped potatoes with onions and peppers speed up prep and infuse extra flavor.
• Bacon Bits: A smoky, salty punch that mimics classic loaded potato toppings.
• Cream Cheese & Cheddar: These create the signature creamy, rich base and gooey texture.
• Ranch Mix: Adds a subtle herby tang that elevates the overall taste.

Step-By-Step Directions

1. Combine Base Ingredients:
   • Place frozen O’Brien hash brown potatoes, cream of celery soup, chicken broth, dry ranch dressing mix, and 1/2 cup bacon bits in your slow cooker.
   • Stir to thoroughly combine.
2. Start Cooking:
   • Cover and cook on Low for 4 hours.
   • The potatoes should be tender and the flavors well melded.
3. Mash and Add Cream Cheese:
   • Remove the lid. Gently mash the potatoes with a potato masher to your desired consistency (for a thicker soup), or leave them whole for a chunkier chowder-style texture.
   • Add the block of cream cheese. Stir until mostly melted.
   • Cover and cook for an additional hour on Low.
4. Finish and Season:
   • Stir the soup until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and the soup is velvety smooth.
   • Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
5. Serve and Garnish:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls.
   • Top with remaining bacon bits, shredded Cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions for classic loaded potato flavor.

Tips for Making the Best Loaded Potato Soup

• Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Letting cream cheese soften ensures it melts evenly into the soup for a smooth texture.
• Customize Thickness: Mash more for a creamier soup; mash less or not at all for a chunkier style.
• Add Dairy Last: Always add cream cheese towards the end of cooking to prevent curdling and maintain a creamy texture.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Boost Protein: Stir in cooked, shredded chicken at the end for a heartier meal.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

• Potatoes: Use any style frozen hash browns or substitute with peeled and diced fresh potatoes.
• Cream of Celery Soup: Swap for cream of chicken, mushroom, or cheddar soup for a flavorful twist.
• Broth: Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option (also substitute bacon bits with vegetarian bacon).
• Dairy-Free: Use vegan cream cheese and omit cheddar or use plant-based cheeses.
• Mix-Ins: Stir in frozen peas, corn, or steamed broccoli for extra veggies.
• Heat Lovers: Add diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

Loaded potato soup is a meal in itself, but you can elevate it with sides and toppings:

• Serve With: Crusty sourdough bread, garlic toast, or a simple side salad.
• Garnish Ideas: Extra bacon bits, cheddar cheese, green onions, fresh chives, a dollop of sour cream, or even crispy fried onions.
• Pair With: Roasted vegetables or a light, citrusy salad to balance the richness.

Storing and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: This soup can be frozen, though the texture may change slightly due to dairy. Let cool completely and freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat Gently: Warm on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup is too thick.

Nutrition Information

(Nutrition may vary depending on ingredients and portion size.)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, peeled and diced fresh potatoes work wonderfully. Aim for about 5–6 cups of diced potatoes and ensure they’re cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth and opt for vegetarian bacon bits or omit them. Plant-based cream cheese and cheese may be substituted for a fully vegan version.

Can I make this soup on the stovetop?

Absolutely! Sauté onions (if using), add potatoes, broth, and seasonings. Simmer until potatoes are tender, then stir in cream cheese and cheddar until melted and smooth.

What are the best toppings for loaded potato soup?

Besides the classic bacon, cheddar, and green onions, try adding sour cream, chopped chives, crispy shallots, or pickled jalapeños for extra flavor.

How can I thicken or thin the soup?

For a thicker soup, mash more potatoes or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water. To thin, add additional broth or a splash of milk until the desired consistency is reached.

Make It Your Own: Popular Variations

• Cheesy Broccoli Potato Soup: Stir in steamed broccoli florets and extra cheddar for a classic pairing.
• Baked Potato Style: Top individual bowls with sour cream, green onions, and extra bacon for that true baked potato experience.
• Tex-Mex Twist: Add corn, black beans, diced green chilies, and a sprinkle of cumin for a Southwestern flair.
• Chunky Veggie: Load up with additional diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for a heartier, more vegetable-forward soup.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Don’t Overcook: Avoid leaving the soup on for too long after adding cream cheese, as it can alter the smooth texture.
• Use High-Quality Cheese: Shred your own cheddar for the best melting and flavor—store-bought pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
• Scrape the Sides: Stir occasionally after adding cheese and cream cheese to prevent sticking.
• Boost Umami: A splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika can add depth.

Perfect for Any Occasion

• Family Dinners: Let everyone add their favorite toppings for a fun, interactive meal.
• Potlucks and Parties: Keep warm in the slow cooker and set up a toppings bar for guests.
• Make-Ahead Meals: Prepare in advance and refrigerate or freeze for easy meal planning.

Summary: Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This slow cooker loaded potato soup captures everything we love about comfort food: rich flavor, creamy texture, and the irresistible appeal of bacon and cheese. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable to your tastes, and delivers big on cozy satisfaction. Whether you’re feeding a family or craving a solo bowl of comfort, this recipe is sure to be a staple in your kitchen.

Author

Srija Burman

 

Srija holds an MA in English Literature from the University of Calcutta and a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her interest in writing and editing ranges across niches, including academics, sports, and human psychology.

Read full bio of Srija Burman