Indulge in Comfort: Slow Cooker Creamy Potato Bacon Soup
Welcome to a culinary delight that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds – our Slow Cooker Creamy Potato Bacon Soup! This hearty and flavorful soup is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a bowl of creamy goodness. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe and savor every spoonful of savory delight.
Ingredients:
- 6 slices bacon, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 (10.5 ounce) cans condensed chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 5 large potatoes, diced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried dill weed
- ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half-and-half cream
- 1 (12 fluid ounce) can evaporated milk
Instructions:
- Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon pieces until they are crispy and golden brown. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
- Sauté the Onion: In the same skillet, sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Transfer the cooked onion to your slow cooker.
- Combine Ingredients: To the slow cooker, add the condensed chicken broth, water, diced potatoes, salt, dill weed, and ground white pepper. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Cook Slowly: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and cooked through.
- Make the Creamy Base: In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and half-and-half cream until smooth. Pour the mixture into the slow cooker, stirring well to incorporate.
- Add Evaporated Milk: Stir in the evaporated milk to further enrich the soup’s creamy texture.
- Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 30 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally, to thicken and meld the flavors together.
- Serve: Ladle the creamy potato bacon soup into bowls and garnish with the crispy bacon pieces. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Cook’s Notes:
- For added depth of flavor, you can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or homemade stock.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or herbs for a personalized touch.
Variations:
- Loaded Potato Soup: Top each serving with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream for a loaded potato soup experience.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version of this soup.
Keto Version:
For a keto-friendly version of this soup, you can omit the flour and use xanthan gum or a low-carb thickener instead. Additionally, reduce the amount of potatoes or replace them with cauliflower florets to lower the carb content.
Low-Carb Version:
To make this soup low-carb, use cauliflower instead of potatoes or reduce the amount of potatoes in the recipe. You can also substitute heavy cream for the half-and-half cream to further reduce the carb count.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon? A: Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon if you prefer a leaner option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as turkey bacon tends to cook faster.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this soup? A: Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones? A: Yes, you can use fresh dill instead of dried dill weed for a vibrant flavor. Simply chop the fresh herbs and add them to the soup during the last hour of cooking.
Q: Is it necessary to peel the potatoes before dicing them? A: While it’s not necessary to peel the potatoes, you can choose to leave the skins on for added texture and nutrients. Just make sure to scrub them thoroughly before dicing.
Q: Can I use whole milk instead of evaporated milk? A: Yes, you can substitute whole milk for evaporated milk if you prefer. However, keep in mind that evaporated milk adds a richer and creamier texture to the soup.
Savor the comforting flavors of our Slow Cooker Creamy Potato Bacon Soup, a culinary masterpiece that elevates the humble potato to new heights. Whether enjoyed as a cozy weeknight dinner or served at gatherings with loved ones, this soul-warming soup is sure to leave a lasting impression. Customize it to suit your dietary preferences and taste preferences, and bask in the warmth of each creamy spoonful. Bon appétit!
