Print

Cozy Crockpot Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Easy 5-Ingredient Dinner

crockpot loaded baked potato soup - featured image

This creamy, comforting loaded baked potato soup is made with just five simple ingredients in a slow cooker. It’s the perfect easy dinner for busy weeknights or cold winter days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds russet potatoes (about 4 medium), peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled, plus extra for topping
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, plus extra for topping
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon in a cold skillet over medium heat for 6-8 minutes, flipping once, until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cool, crumble into small pieces.
  2. Peel the russet potatoes and dice them into 1-inch cubes. Rinse the diced potatoes in cold water to remove excess starch, then drain well.
  3. Place the diced potatoes in the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth over them, making sure the potatoes are mostly submerged. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
  4. Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher to gently mash about half of them right in the slow cooker to create a thicker base.
  5. Add the softened cream cheese cubes and shredded cheddar cheese to the slow cooker. Stir gently until both cheeses are melted and fully incorporated, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of crumbled bacon for topping. Add the rest to the soup and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with black pepper if needed.
  7. Turn off the slow cooker and let the soup rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and soup to thicken.
  8. Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with reserved bacon, extra shredded cheddar, sliced green onions, and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers.

Notes

For a thicker soup, mash more potatoes. If the soup is too thick, stir in a splash of warm broth or milk. Let the soup rest before serving for best flavor. Use full-fat cream cheese for smoothest texture. Shred your own cheese for better melting.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot soup, loaded baked potato soup, easy dinner, slow cooker, comfort food, winter soup