Loaded Potato Soup: Creamy Comfort by the Crockful

When it comes to soul-warming comfort food, few things compare to a rich and creamy bowl of loaded potato soup. This crockpot version transforms simple pantry staples—potatoes, onions, broth—into a silky, indulgent masterpiece, with layers of flavor and hearty textures in every bite. Whether you’re curled up on a cold evening or hosting a cozy family dinner, this soup satisfies like a warm hug.

Loaded potato soup is a modern comfort food classic, inspired by the beloved fully-loaded baked potato. Think melty cheese, smoky bacon, and a creamy base all brought together in spoonable form. Originating in American home kitchens and diners, its appeal lies in its adaptability and decadent texture. This crockpot recipe takes the stress out of preparation while delivering all the satisfying richness and depth of a slow-cooked stew.

Best of all, you can tailor this soup to your dietary needs—make it vegetarian, gluten-free, or even dairy-free without losing the creamy dreaminess. So let’s simmer up something spectacular.

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Russet potatoes (peeled, diced)	6 medium
Onion (chopped)	1 medium
Garlic (minced)	3 cloves
Vegetable or chicken broth	4 cups
Heavy cream or coconut cream	1 cup
Shredded cheddar cheese	1 cup
Cooked bacon (crumbled)	4 strips (optional)
Green onions (chopped)	2 (for garnish)
Salt and pepper	To taste

Ingredient Notes:

• Russet potatoes are ideal due to their high starch content, which helps create a naturally creamy texture.
• Use coconut cream or unsweetened cashew cream for a delicious dairy-free alternative.
• Sharp cheddar adds depth; swap for smoked gouda or pepper jack for a twist.
• Bacon is optional—but highly recommended for those who enjoy a smoky, savory bite.

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Equipment Needed

• Crockpot / Slow Cooker: Ideal for even, gentle cooking that makes the potatoes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
• Immersion Blender: Helps you achieve a creamy texture directly in the pot. A standard blender also works—just blend in batches.
• Measuring cups/spoons: For accuracy when adding broth, cream, and seasonings.
• Chef’s knife & cutting board: Essential for prepping potatoes, onions, and garlic.

Using an immersion blender saves time and cleanup, especially since it lets you adjust texture directly in the pot.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into roughly 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Add these vegetables to the crockpot along with the broth.
2. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your preference, then stir lightly to combine.
3. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The potatoes should be very tender and easy to mash with a spoon.
4. Once the cooking time is up, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. For a chunkier texture, blend only half the soup or mash some of the potatoes with a spoon or potato masher.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese until smooth and fully melted. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish generously with crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and extra cheese if you’re feeling indulgent.

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Tips and Variations

Tips for Success:

• Dice potatoes evenly so they cook uniformly.
• Add the cream and cheese at the end to prevent curdling or graininess.
• For a thicker consistency, let the soup simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes after blending.

Flavor Variations:

• Spicy Kick: Stir in a chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne with the onions.
• Herbaceous Touch: Add chopped thyme or rosemary during the cooking phase.
• Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika or smoked gouda cheese in place of cheddar.

Dietary Adaptations:

• Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and omit bacon.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and a plant-based cheddar alternative.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free—just ensure your broth and cheese are certified GF.

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Serving Suggestions

To make this soup a complete and visually stunning meal, serve it in wide, deep bowls topped with a dramatic sprinkle of cheese and a swirl of cream. Crumbled bacon and bright green onions add both flavor and contrast.

Pair it with a slice of crusty artisan bread or a warm sourdough roll for dipping. A crisp side salad with vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the soup.

For a gourmet touch, drizzle a little truffle oil or a crack of black pepper on top just before serving.

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Pairings

The rich, creamy base of this soup pairs best with drinks that cleanse the palate and offer a little brightness:

• Dry white wines like Chardonnay or Riesling contrast nicely with the soup’s creaminess.
• A light amber ale or brown ale provides a malty sweetness that complements the cheddar and bacon.
• For a non-alcoholic pairing, try sparkling apple cider or a lightly sweetened iced green tea with lemon.

These choices highlight the luxurious flavors of the soup while keeping the overall experience light and enjoyable.

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Storage and Reheating

Allow the soup to cool fully before transferring to airtight containers. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To freeze, skip the cheese and cream in the initial batch. Freeze the blended base, then reheat and stir in dairy just before serving. This method preserves texture and flavor.

Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in short bursts. Add a splash of milk or broth if it thickens too much.

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Nutritional Information

Per serving (approx. 1½ cups):

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg

Allergens: Contains dairy; bacon may contain preservatives or nitrates.

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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Conclusion

This Loaded Potato Soup is everything comfort food should be—rich, creamy, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. It’s a hit at family gatherings, potlucks, or when you just need something warm and delicious to carry you through the week.

Try it for yourself, and let us know how you topped yours—bacon mountain, cheese avalanche, or herb garden? Share your creations online and tag us to join the comfort food celebration!

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