Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup
As I sit here thinking about the perfect accompaniments for my favorite slow cooker loaded baked potato soup, I can't help but smile.
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder this is optional but brings depth
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup full-fat sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half
Optional toppings:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Start by peeling and dicing the russet potatoes. Aim for uniform pieces; this helps them cook evenly. Next, finely chop the yellow onion. Set everything aside.
Step 2: Set It Up in the Slow Cooker
- Now, toss the diced potatoes and chopped onions into the slow cooker. Season them with a pinch of salt and fresh black pepper. If you’re using garlic powder, this is the moment to add it! Pour the chicken stock over the top.
Step 3: Let It Cook
- Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The key here is patience—let the flavors develop fully as the potatoes become tender.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Base
- Once cooking time is up, it’s time to thicken it up! In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour until you’ve created a smooth paste. Gradually add this mixture to the slow cooker, stirring well to combine.
Step 5: Add Creaminess
- Now, stir in the sour cream and heavy cream. Allow it to meld for an additional 30 minutes on low heat. The soup should transform into a creamy delight with the most comforting texture.
Step 6: Finish with Toppings
- Before serving, top the soup with your chosen toppings—be it shredded cheese, bacon, or chives. Engage with the visual appeal! Finally, ladle the soup into bowls and serve it warm.
Notes
Choose the Right Potatoes: Stick with russets for the best texture and flavor. They break down nicely in soups.
Don’t Rush the Cooking Time: For excellent flavor, let it cook for the suggested time. The slow cooker does its best work when you don’t rush it.
Experiment with Toppings: Variety is the spice of life! Swap crispy onions for bacon or sprinkle some hot sauce on top for extra zing.
Blending for Smoothness: If you prefer a super-smooth soup, blend using an immersion blender before adding cream. It creates a delightful consistency.
Season Gradually: Taste test towards the end and adjust salt and pepper. Different brands of stock can vary in saltiness, so keep that in mind!
Nutrition
Calories: 375kcalCarbohydrates: 33gProtein: 8gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gFiber: 2gSugar: 2g
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