Slow cookers are kitchen lifesavers, especially when it comes to hearty and flavorful soups. This creamy potato bacon soup recipe is no exception. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and delivering maximum flavor. The slow cooker works its magic, transforming humble potatoes and bacon into a rich and comforting bowl of deliciousness. Perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy weekend lunch, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
What Makes This Potato Bacon Soup Recipe Special?
This recipe goes beyond the usual potato bacon soup. We've focused on creating a deeply flavorful broth, utilizing both bacon and onion for a rich base. The slow cooking process allows the potatoes to become incredibly tender, melting into the soup for a luxuriously creamy texture. We’ve also included tips and variations to customize the soup to your taste preferences.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb bacon, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 2 cups milk or cream (heavy cream for extra richness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Optional toppings: chives, bacon crumbles, sour cream
Instructions for Your Slow Cooker Potato Bacon Soup:
- Sauté the Bacon: Before adding anything to your slow cooker, start by cooking the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon, reserving about 1/4 cup of the bacon grease. Set the crispy bacon aside for later.
- Sauté the Onions (Optional but Recommended): In the same pan, sauté the chopped onion in the reserved bacon grease until softened. This step adds a depth of flavor that you won't get by just throwing everything into the slow cooker.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the sautéed onions, potatoes, chicken broth, milk/cream, garlic, thyme, and pepper to your slow cooker. Stir well to combine.
- Slow Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are very tender.
- Blend (Optional): For an extra creamy soup, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Stir in Bacon: Stir in the reserved crispy bacon. Season with salt to taste.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chives, extra bacon crumbles, or a dollop of sour cream.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes! Russet, Yukon Gold, or red potatoes all work well in this recipe. Just ensure they are peeled and cubed to a relatively uniform size for even cooking.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What if I don't have a slow cooker?
You can adapt this recipe for stovetop cooking. Sauté the bacon and onions as directed, then combine all ingredients in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender (about 20-25 minutes).
How can I make this soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can simmer it uncovered for the last 30 minutes of cooking time to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing in airtight freezer containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips for the Best Potato Bacon Soup:
- Don't overcook the bacon: Crispy bacon adds the best texture and flavor.
- Use good quality broth: The broth forms the base of the flavor, so splurge on a flavorful chicken or vegetable broth.
- Season to taste: Adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings to personalize your bowl.
This slow cooker potato bacon soup is a simple yet satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
