Creamy Potato Bacon Slow Cooker Recipe

Craving a hearty and flavorful meal that practically cooks itself? Look no further than this Slow Cooker Creamy Potato Bacon soup recipe. Picture this: the savory aroma of crispy bacon mingling with tender potatoes and creamy broth, slowly simmering in your crockpot all day long. It’s the ultimate comfort food that warms you up from the inside out.

I first whipped up this soul-soothing soup on a busy day chasing after my little one, and it quickly became a household favorite. The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity – just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. As the day progresses, the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that beckons everyone to gather around the table.

With a nod to tradition and a touch of nostalgia, the addition of dill in this recipe adds a refreshing twist that harkens back to grandma’s kitchen. The subtle hint of dill elevates the soup, making each spoonful a trip down memory lane. So, whether you’re looking for a fuss-free family meal or a cozy pick-me-up on a rainy day, this Slow Cooker Creamy Potato Bacon soup is sure to hit the spot.

Quick Benefits

• Easy and Effortless Meal: This soup almost makes itself in the slow cooker, perfect for a busy day when you need a comforting meal without the effort.
• Versatile Substitutions: Can be easily adapted for various dietary needs, such as using turkey bacon, plant-based bacon alternatives, or dairy-free milk options.
• Long Lasting Leftovers: This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to four days and reheated easily, making it a convenient option for meal prep or enjoying throughout the week.
• Nostalgic Flavors: The addition of dill brings a nostalgic touch to the recipe, evoking memories of homemade, comforting soups from the past.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Potato Bacon Slow Cooker Recipe Recipe

• Effortless and cozy: Perfect for a rainy day or when you need a comforting meal without the hassle of constant monitoring.
• Soul-warming flavors: The combination of creamy potatoes and bacon creates a rich and satisfying soup that warms you from the inside out.
• Family favorite: Loved by all ages, this soup is a go-to comfort meal that the whole family will enjoy.
• Nostalgic touch: The hint of dill in the recipe adds a nostalgic element, reminiscent of grandma’s kitchen and childhood memories.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable for dietary preferences – swap bacon for turkey bacon or vegan bacon, and adjust dairy options for different dietary needs.
• Meal prep friendly: Keeps well in the fridge for up to four days, making it a great option for batch cooking and quick reheating.
• Easy reheating: Simply add a splash of milk when reheating to maintain the creamy consistency.
• Customizable: Experiment with different potato varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes for varied textures and flavors.
• Toppings and sides: Serve with crusty bread, salad, or a sprinkle of cheddar and herbs for a complete and indulgent meal.
• Slow cooker convenience: Modern twist on classic comfort food, allowing you to enjoy traditional flavors with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Creamy Potato Bacon Slow Cooker Recipe

Soup Base

• 6 slices streaky bacon, cut into 1.25 cm pieces
• 0.5 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 480 ml water
• 5 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 0.5 teaspoon dried dill weed
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cans (300 ml each) condensed chicken broth

Thickening and Cream

• 65 grams all-purpose flour
• 1 can (354 ml) evaporated milk
• 480 ml half-and-half cream

Pro Tips for Creamy Potato Bacon Slow Cooker Recipe

Pro Tip 1: To enhance the flavors of this creamy potato bacon soup, consider cooking the bacon pieces until they are crispy before adding them to the slow cooker. This will add a delicious crunch and depth of flavor to the dish.

Pro Tip 2: If you prefer a thicker soup consistency, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes with a fork or potato masher towards the end of the cooking time. Alternatively, mix a bit more flour with cream and stir it into the soup to help thicken it up to your liking.

Pro Tip 3: For a dairy-free or lactose-sensitive version of this soup, feel free to substitute the half-and-half cream with a creamy oat milk. Additionally, if you’re looking for a pork-free option, turkey bacon can be used as a substitute for the traditional bacon, while still providing a savory note to the soup.

How to Make Creamy Potato Bacon Slow Cooker Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Bacon and Onion

Cook diced bacon and chopped onion in a large skillet over medium-high heat until bacon is crisp and onions are translucent. Drain excess fat.

Step 2: Combine Core Ingredients

Move the cooked bacon and onion to the slow cooker. Mix in condensed chicken broth, water, diced potatoes, salt, dill weed, and white pepper. Stir to combine evenly.

Step 3: Slow Cook Mixture

Cook covered on low for 6 to 7 hours, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Prepare Cream Mixture

Combine all-purpose flour and half-and-half cream in a small bowl, whisking until smooth and lump-free.

Step 5: Incorporate Cream and Finish

Combine the flour and cream mixture with evaporated milk in the slow cooker. Stir well, cover, and cook on low for 30 minutes until thickened. Serve hot.

Storage Tips

To store the Slow Cooker Creamy Potato Bacon soup, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The soup can be kept for up to four days. Over time, the soup may thicken, so when reheating, simply add a splash of milk to achieve the desired creamy consistency. It’s recommended to gently stir the soup over low heat to prevent scorching and ensure a smooth reheating process.

For those looking to modify the recipe, turkey bacon can be used for a pork-free version, while plant-based eaters can opt for a smoky vegan bacon or skip the bacon altogether and enhance the flavor with a dash of smoked paprika. Additionally, dairy-sensitive individuals can substitute half-and-half with all milk or a creamy oat milk. By making these adjustments, the soup can cater to various dietary preferences without compromising on taste and comfort.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian version, consider swapping the bacon for diced mushrooms or smoked tofu to add a savory note to the soup. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it meat-free.

To make this recipe gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch as a thickening agent. Make sure all other ingredients, like the bacon and broth, are gluten-free as well.

If you prefer a lighter option, you can use low-fat milk or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt instead of half-and-half. This will reduce the overall fat content while still maintaining a creamy texture. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, consider presenting the Slow Cooker Creamy Potato Bacon soup in bread bowls. Hollow out round bread loaves, such as sourdough boules, and ladle the warm soup into them. The combination of creamy soup and the edible bread bowl adds a fun and delicious twist to the meal.

To enhance the flavors and textures of the soup, top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits, and a pinch of fresh dill. These garnishes not only add visual appeal but also provide layers of taste that complement the hearty potato soup. Serve with a side of mixed greens drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette to complete the meal.

FAQs for Creamy Potato Bacon Slow Cooker Recipe

Can I use Yukon Gold or red potatoes instead of the large potatoes?

Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes also work well, providing a slightly different texture and flavor.

Can I reheat leftovers of this soup?

Absolutely! Simply reheat gently on the stove or in the slow cooker, adding extra milk if needed to thin.

Can I substitute the bacon with diced ham or turkey bacon?

Try diced ham or turkey bacon for a lighter or different smoky element.

Is the dill flavor overpowering in this soup?

No, a small amount adds subtle brightness without dominating the creamy base.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Slow Cooker Creamy Potato Bacon soup is a true testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together to create a delicious and comforting meal. With its rich and creamy texture, savory bacon, and subtle hints of dill, this soup is sure to warm your soul on any chilly day. Whether you’re serving it up for a weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering, this recipe is a winner that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

So, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let the flavors meld together as you go about your day. The beauty of the Slow Cooker Creamy Potato Bacon soup lies in its ease of preparation and the heartwarming memories it evokes with every spoonful. Embrace the nostalgia of traditional American comfort food made modern with the convenience of a slow cooker. This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to savor the simple joys of a homemade meal that brings loved ones together over a steaming bowl of goodness.

Creamy Potato Bacon Slow Cooker Recipe

Creamy, comforting Slow Cooker Potato Bacon Soup—effortless, soul-warming, and filled with cozy aromas, sure to become a go-to family favorite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time20 Minutes

Cook Time430 Minutes

Total Time450 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings8 Servings (Makes approximately 2.5 litres of soup)

Ingredients

Soup Base

• 6 slices streaky bacon, cut into 1.25 cm pieces
• 0.5 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 480 ml water
• 5 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 0.5 teaspoon dried dill weed
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cans (300 ml each) condensed chicken broth

Thickening and Cream

• 65 grams all-purpose flour
• 1 can (354 ml) evaporated milk
• 480 ml half-and-half cream

Instructions

1. Sauté Bacon and Onion: Cook diced bacon and chopped onion in a large skillet over medium-high heat until bacon is crisp and onions are translucent. Drain excess fat.
2. Combine Core Ingredients: Move the cooked bacon and onion to the slow cooker. Mix in condensed chicken broth, water, diced potatoes, salt, dill weed, and white pepper. Stir to combine evenly.
3. Slow Cook Mixture: Cook covered on low for 6 to 7 hours, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender.
4. Prepare Cream Mixture: Combine all-purpose flour and half-and-half cream in a small bowl, whisking until smooth and lump-free.
5. Incorporate Cream and Finish: Combine the flour and cream mixture with evaporated milk in the slow cooker. Stir well, cover, and cook on low for 30 minutes until thickened. Serve hot.