As the chilly weather settles in, there’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of soup. Just the thought of warm, creamy Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup can send cozy vibes straight to your kitchen. The delightful medley of diced potatoes, succulent ham, and sharp cheddar cheese creates a dish that feels both homey and indulgent, perfect for family dinners or even a relaxed solo evening in.
I stumbled upon this recipe during a long afternoon of kitchen experimenting, seeking to transform ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary. With just a handful of staples and the magic of a slow cooker, you can create a meal that simmers with flavor while you go about your day. Imagine returning home to the inviting aroma of garlic and ham, knowing that dinner is not just ready but also ridiculously simple to prepare.
Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or treat yourself after a long day, this Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup is the answer. Let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe that not only satisfies the taste buds but also brings everyone together around the table.
Why is Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting, Creamy Goodness: This soup brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite, perfect for chilly evenings.
Effortless Preparation: Simply toss your ingredients in the crockpot and let it do the work while you enjoy your day.
Flavor-Packed Ingredients: The blend of potatoes, ham, and cheese creates a hearty meal that delights the taste buds.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering, this soup is sure to be a hit with everyone.
Versatile Toppings: Customize with your favorite garnishes like crispy bacon and fresh green onions for extra flavor and flair.
Balanced Nutrition: Packed with protein and nutrients, it’s a wholesome alternative to fast food without sacrificing taste.
Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup Ingredients
Elevate your comfort food game with these simple yet delicious ingredients!
For the Soup Base
• 4 cups potatoes, diced – Use Yukon Gold for a creamier texture.
• 1 large onion, chopped – Provides a savory foundation for great flavor.
• 2 cups ham, chopped – Adds protein and a smoky richness to the soup.
• 1 can cream of chicken soup – Infuses creamy goodness without extra fuss.
• 4 cups low sodium chicken broth – Keeps the soup flavorful without excess salt.
• 1 cup water – Adjusts the consistency to your liking.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Offers a punch of flavor that elevates the dish.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper – A little kick to round out the flavors.
For the Thickening Agent
• 1 cup milk – Makes the soup luxuriously creamy and rich.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps achieve that perfect thick consistency.
For the Cheese
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – Offers a bold taste that enhances the overall flavors.
For Toppings
• Shredded cheddar cheese – Sprinkle on top for extra cheesiness.
• Chopped bacon – Adds a crunchy and smoky element for texture.
• Green onions – Brightens up the dish with a fresh, mild flavor.
• Sour cream – A dollop creates a creamy finish that balances the flavors.
Gather these ingredients to create your own delicious Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup, bringing warmth and comfort to your table!
How to Make Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup
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Prepare the Potatoes: Wash, peel, and dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place them in the bottom of your crockpot, ensuring they are evenly spread for even cooking.
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Add Ingredients: Toss in the chopped onion, diced ham, cream of chicken soup, low sodium chicken broth, water, minced garlic, and black pepper. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
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Thicken the Soup: An hour before serving, add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth, then pour the mixture into the slow cooker. Stir to combine and cover with the lid.
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Serve & Garnish: Once the cooking time is complete, ladle the soup into bowls and top with the remaining shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, and fresh green onions for extra flavor and texture.
Optional: Finish with a dollop of sour cream for a delightful creamy touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup
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Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best. Avoid waxy potatoes, which won’t give the desired creamy texture.
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Controlled Seasoning: Since ham can be salty, adjust the amount of added salt until the end to prevent over-seasoning your Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup.
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Thickening Magic: To avoid lumps, whisk flour and milk together before adding to the soup. This helps achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
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Add Freshness: Incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or parsley just before serving brightens the soup and enhances flavors without overwhelming it.
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Perfect Prep Timing: Chop all ingredients the night before and refrigerate, so you can just toss everything into the crockpot in the morning. Save time without sacrificing flavor!
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Ideal Storage: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. For long-term storage, freeze portions and reheat for a quick meal anytime.
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup
- Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring any toppings are kept separate to maintain their texture.
- Freezer: Portion the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave space for expansion as it freezes.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
- Avoiding Waste: For best taste, reheat only the amount needed and keep any remaining soup refrigerated or frozen promptly after serving.
What to Serve with Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup?
As you curl up with a comforting bowl of soup, consider these delightful pairings to elevate your meal experience.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, a warm, crusty baguette complements the creamy texture of the soup beautifully.
- Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the rich flavors of the soup.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these are irresistible for mopping up every last bit of your delicious Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic duo! The melty cheese and crispy bread elevate the comforting vibes of the soup.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These veggies bring a roasted crunch to your meal, offering a slightly bitter contrast that works wonders with the soup’s creaminess.
- Sparkling Apple Cider: A lightly sweet beverage that enhances the meal while providing a refreshing palate cleanser between spoonfuls.
- Dessert Parfait: Finish with a light parfait made of yogurt, granola, and fresh berries to contrast the savory soup, leaving you satisfied yet refreshed.
- Savory Scones: Cheddar and chive scones add a savory bite, perfect for enjoying alongside each spoonful of your hearty soup.
- Cheesy Potato Wedges: Crispy and cheesy, these wedges echo the flavors in the soup and create a fulfilling dining experience.
Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative by making delightful changes to this recipe that caters to your taste buds!
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Vegetarian: Replace ham with 2 cups of sautéed mushrooms and add vegetable broth for a rich, hearty soup.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the crockpot for a surprising heat that warm you right up.
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Low-Carb: Swap potatoes for cauliflower florets and use almond milk instead of dairy to keep the comfort while cutting carbs.
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Creamy Dream: Stir in a block of cream cheese along with the shredded cheese for an extra velvety richness that will have everyone asking for seconds.
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Herbed Delight: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the last hour of cooking to infuse a fragrant aroma and elevating the flavor profile.
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Smoky Flavor: Use smoked ham or a touch of liquid smoke to provide a unique depth and enhance the overall earthy notes.
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Nutty Texture: Sprinkle in some toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans after serving for an unexpected crunch that complements the creaminess beautifully.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk with coconut cream and the cheese with nutritional yeast for a deliciously creamy experience sans dairy.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup in advance is a wonderful strategy for busy weeknights! You can dice the potatoes and onions, and chop the ham up to 24 hours ahead of time; just store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can mix the cream of chicken soup, broth, water, minced garlic, and black pepper in a separate container, combining everything right before you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to enjoy your soup, simply layer the prepped ingredients in the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, finishing by stirring in the cheese and flour mixture an hour before serving. This makes for a cozy, effortless meal that’s just as delicious!
Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup?
Absolutely! I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for the creamiest texture. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they won’t yield the same comforting creaminess that makes this soup so delightful.
How should I store leftover Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup?
To store, simply place any leftover soup in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Remember to keep any toppings, like bacon or green onions, separate to prevent them from getting soggy!
Can I freeze Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup?
Very much! To freeze, portion the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can last for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If you find your soup too thick, don’t fret! Just add a little chicken broth or milk—start with a tablespoon, stir well, and adjust until it reaches your desired consistency. This will ensure that each bowl is as comforting as possible!
Is this soup safe for those with dietary restrictions?
Great question! This soup contains ham and dairy, so it may not be suitable for vegetarians or those with lactose intolerance. If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, you can substitute the ham with sautéed mushrooms and use a non-dairy milk or cream.
How can I enhance the flavor of my Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup?
For added flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley just before serving. You can also customize the spice level by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or serving with a drizzle of hot sauce. The more the merrier!
Crockpot Loaded Potato Soup: Comfort in Every Spoonful
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Potatoes: Wash, peel, and dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place them in the bottom of your crockpot, ensuring they are evenly spread for even cooking.
- Add Ingredients: Toss in the chopped onion, diced ham, cream of chicken soup, low sodium chicken broth, water, minced garlic, and black pepper. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
- Thicken the Soup: An hour before serving, add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth, then pour the mixture into the slow cooker. Stir to combine and cover with the lid.
- Serve & Garnish: Once the cooking time is complete, ladle the soup into bowls and top with the remaining shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, and fresh green onions for extra flavor and texture.