It doesn’t get any cozier in your kitchen than with a bowl of Hearty Homestyle Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Soup! Get your bacon, chives, cheese, and sour cream ready to top off this deliciously simple and decadent soup!

overhead shot of white bowl with silver spoon containing potato soup garnished with sour cream cheddar cheese, back and green onion, with second bowl in background surrounded by parsley

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What’s To Love About This Recipe

Loaded potato soup is a creamy and comforting soup with uber-rich flavor. It’s the perfect cozy bowl for fall and winter or to serve with a soup and sandwich combo.
This soup is easy to prep ahead and slow-cook during the day. You won’t need to hover around the stove!
In this hearty soup, you’ll get classic baked potato flavors with the convenience of a one-pot meal.
Everyone loves a topping bar! Customize for the whole family with endless topping options.
Loaded potato soup is made with fresh ingredients – no canned “cream of” soup needed! Enjoy fresh veggies and real ingredients with better texture and taste in this true homestyle recipe.
Potato soup is just as delicious the next day! It’s a great, filling option for leftover lunches or meal prep.

Ingredients Needed

Russet potatoes – Russets are a starchy variety that works well in soup since they break down during cooking. Peel and dice the potatoes to remove the tough skin and create a creamy, smooth soup base.
Chicken broth -Chicken broth adds flavor to the base and helps the veggies simmer in the slow cooker.
Garlic powder and onion powder – This pair of spices adds a subtle depth to the soup.
Salt and ground black pepper – Salt and pepper balance out the seasoning and add a bit of savory heat.
Whipped cream cheese – Cream cheese brings a tangy bite to the soup, similar to a dollop of sour cream on a baked potato. Whipped cream cheese is a convenient option that blends easily into the soup and makes it extra creamy.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar is a great choice for a burst of flavor, and it melts right into the base. Shred your own from the block for the best results.
Heavy cream – Besides the potatoes, this might be the second-most important ingredient! Heavy cream brings the comfort-food element and a smooth finish.
Cooked crumbled bacon, chives, sour cream, and shredded cheese – These classic toppings are signature elements of the loaded potato! Serve an array of toppings on the side and let everyone customize a bowl to their heart’s content.

shot of ingredients to include white bowl of russet potatoes, measuring spoons with salt, pepper, measuring cup of chicken broth, cup of cheese, bowl of cream cheese, small bowls of garlic powder and onion powder

How To Make Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Soup

In a slow cooker, combine diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, salt, and pepper.

black slow cooker with cut up potatoes in broth and seasonings

Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until potatoes are tender.

cooked potatoes in slow cooker with potatoes being mashed with masher

Once cooked, use a potato masher or immersion blender to lightly blend some of the potatoes to the desired soup consistency.
Stir in room temperature cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and heavy cream until well combined and the cheese is melted.

black slow cooker with wooden spoon, stirring in cream cheese, cheddar cheese and cream

Cover and cook on low for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Garnish individual bowls with toppings and enjoy!

overhead shot of slow cooker containing potato soup, garnished with green onion, crumbled bacon and extra cheese

Pro Tips

For a thicker soup, mash more potatoes or let the soup simmer uncovered for a short time at the end.
For thinner soup, stir in extra broth or a little milk until the desired consistency is reached.
Use an immersion blender for a creamier texture, but don’t fully purée the soup. Leave some potato chunks for hearty bites.
Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier melting.
Add garnishes just before serving to preserve their texture and flavor.

Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Other types of potatoes can also work well in this soup, such as Yukon Golds or red potatoes. Be aware that they will yield slightly different textures, as they are less starchy than russets and will not break down as much to thicken the soup.
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check broth ingredients and ensure the toppings are also gluten-free.
For a lighter version of this soup, use reduced-fat cream cheese, half-and-half instead of cream, and skip the extra cheese on top.
Increase the protein content with tasty additions like diced ham, shredded rotisserie chicken, or crispy bacon. Just stir them into the soup at the end until heated through.
Craving extra veggies? Add chopped spinach, corn, or carrots for variety and extra nutrition.

closeup of ladle containing potato soup over black slow cooker with soup

How To Serve Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Soup

One of the best things about loaded potato soup is the easy customization with all your favorite baked potato toppings! Everyone can customize it to their liking and make it even heartier.

Top with these classic options:

Cooked crumbled bacon
Shredded cheese (cheddar, pepper jack, etc.)
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Chopped chives or green onions
French-fried onions
Hot sauce or smoked paprika

Can’t forget the sides! Serve a slice of toasted sourdough on the side for dipping, or add a fresh green salad or grilled cheese sandwich to complete the meal. For a super filling soup and sandwich combo, try Slow Cooker Homemade Turkey Lunchmeat Sandwiches!

overhead shot of white bowl with silver spoon containing garnished potato soup

Storing and Reheating

How To Best Store Leftovers

Fridge

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freezing is not recommended due to the cream base since it can become grainy when thawed.

How To Best Reheat Leftovers

Reheat leftover soup gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth if the mixture is too thick.