01 -
Cook 8 slices thick-cut bacon until crispy; crumble and set aside, reserving 2 tbsp drippings. Dice 1/2 yellow onion and mince 2 cloves garlic. Peel and dice 3 lbs Russet potatoes into 1-inch pieces, ready for your Easy Crockpot Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe.
02 -
In a skillet, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter with the reserved bacon drippings over medium heat. Add the diced 1/2 yellow onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced 2 cloves garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
03 -
Sprinkle 1/4 cup all-purpose flour over the onion and garlic mixture in the skillet. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to create a light roux. This roux is key for a rich, thick Easy Crockpot Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe.
04 -
Transfer the roux mixture to a 6-quart crockpot. Add the diced 3 lbs Russet potatoes and 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours (420 minutes) or on high for 3-4 hours, until potatoes are fork-tender. This slow cooking process ensures a deeply flavorful Easy Crockpot Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe.
05 -
Once potatoes are tender, stir in 2 cups whole milk, 1 cup full-fat sour cream, and 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Season with 1 tsp kosher salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is creamy and well combined.
06 -
For a thicker Easy Crockpot Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe, use a potato masher to gently mash some of the potatoes directly in the crockpot, leaving some chunks for texture. Ladle into bowls and garnish generously with the crumbled 8 slices thick-cut bacon and 1/4 cup fresh chives. Enjoy this comforting Easy Crockpot Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe!