Slow Cooker Potato Soup is the ultimate cozy meal, packed with tender potatoes, creamy broth, and just the right sprinkle of cheese and bacon on top. It’s simple, hearty, and perfect for chilly days when you want something warm and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
I love using the slow cooker for this recipe because it lets all the flavors come together slowly, and I can set it in the morning and come back to the house smelling amazing. Plus, it’s so easy to customize — I like adding a bit of sour cream and green onions at the end to give it a little extra zing. It’s one of those soups that everyone seems to enjoy, no matter what.
When I serve this soup, I usually pair it with some crusty bread or even buttery crackers. It’s perfect for a relaxed lunch or a cozy dinner, and leftovers taste even better the next day. I always feel like this soup turns any cold day into something a bit brighter and more satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red potatoes: I like red potatoes because they hold their shape well when cooked, giving the soup lovely chunks. Russet potatoes are a good alternative if you want a creamier, thicker soup, but they might break down more.
Cream cheese: This adds smooth creaminess and richness. If you don’t have cream cheese, Greek yogurt or heavy cream can work too, though they’ll change the texture slightly.
Bacon: It brings a smoky, salty crunch on top. For a vegetarian version, swap bacon with smoked paprika and crispy fried mushrooms or smoked tempeh.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice tang and meltiness. You can mix different cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for milder flavors.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture in Slow Cooker Potato Soup?
Getting the texture just right is key in this soup—creamy but still chunky. Here’s how I do it:
- Cook the potatoes until tender but not mushy by following the suggested slow cooker times.
- After cooking, mash some of the potatoes with a masher or use an immersion blender briefly. Make sure not to puree it completely, so you keep nice chunks.
- Stir in the cream cheese and sour cream off heat to avoid curdling and keep the soup silky smooth.
- If the soup feels too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up.
This method makes the soup creamy and comforting, with just the right balance of smooth and chunky bits.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker – this is your main tool that cooks the soup low and slow, making the potatoes tender without much work.
- Sharp knife – for chopping potatoes, celery, and onions easily and safely.
- Cutting board – keeps your prep clean and organized.
- Potato masher or immersion blender – great for smashing some potatoes to thicken the soup while leaving chunks.
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula – perfect for stirring the soup without scratching your slow cooker.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the broth, seasonings, and other ingredients just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap bacon for cooked sausage or ham pieces for different smoky flavors that still add hearty protein.
- Stir in some roasted garlic or caramelized onions before cooking for a sweeter, deeper taste.
- Add chopped carrots or corn for extra color and mild sweetness that changes up the texture.
- Use different cheeses like pepper jack for a little heat or mozzarella for extra creaminess.
Slow Cooker Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 medium red potatoes, diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup chopped celery
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Creamy Additions and Toppings:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and about 7-8 hours cooking time on low (or 4-5 hours on high) in your slow cooker. Afterwards, it only takes a few minutes to mix in the cheese and cream cheese and finish your soup.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Cook the Soup:
Start by putting the diced potatoes, chopped celery, chopped onion, chicken broth, water, salt, pepper, and garlic powder into your slow cooker. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything well. Cover it and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the potatoes become tender.
2. Make the Soup Creamy:
Once the potatoes are soft, add the cubed cream cheese to the slow cooker. Stir until the cream cheese melts completely and blends into the soup, making it nice and creamy.
3. Thicken the Soup:
Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to lightly mash some of the potatoes. This will thicken your soup while leaving some chunks so it’s nicely textured and not pureed.
4. Add Cheese and Sour Cream:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream until everything melts smoothly into the soup. Taste and add more salt or pepper if you want.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with the crispy bacon bits and sliced green onions on top. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for a cozy and delicious meal.
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes for This Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen diced potatoes, but be sure to thaw them completely before adding to the slow cooker to ensure even cooking and prevent extra water from diluting the soup.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Make the soup up to the end of step 4, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove and stir in the cheese, sour cream, and toppings fresh for the best flavor and texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly and adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute the cream cheese, cheddar, and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives like vegan cream cheese, nutritional yeast for cheesiness, and coconut or cashew-based sour cream for a creamy texture.