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There’s nothing more comforting than a rich, creamy potato bacon soup packed with savory ground beef, tender veggies, and melty cheese. This slow cooker recipe is a family favorite—even the pickiest eaters go back for seconds! Perfect for chilly nights, potlucks, or meal prep.
In this article, we’ll cover:
✔ Why This Soup Is a Must-Try
✔ Key Ingredients & Easy Swaps
✔ Step-by-Step Instructions
✔ Pro Tips for the Best Flavor
✔ Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
✔ Serving Suggestions & Variations
Let’s make this hearty, crowd-pleasing soup!
Why You’ll Love This Potato Bacon Soup
🥓 Loaded with Flavor – Crispy bacon, savory beef, and creamy cheese make every bite irresistible.
🥔 Ultra-Comforting – Creamy potatoes, tender veggies, and a rich broth = pure comfort food.
🍲 Easy Slow Cooker Meal – Just dump, cook, and stir in the creamy finish!
🧀 Cheesy & Creamy – Half-and-half and cheddar make it luxuriously smooth.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Approved – Even picky eaters love this soup!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
The Essentials:
- Russet potatoes (4) – Starchy and perfect for thickening. Yukon Gold also works.
- Bacon (12 oz) – Adds smoky crunch. Turkey bacon works for a lighter version.
- Ground beef (1 lb) – Adds heartiness. Swap with ground turkey or sausage.
- Chicken broth (3.5 cups) – Use low-sodium if preferred.
- Half-and-half (2 cups) – Makes it creamy. Whole milk or evaporated milk works too.
- Cheddar cheese (2 cups) – Sharp cheddar or pepper jack for extra flavor.
Veggies & Seasonings:
- Diced tomatoes (14 oz can) – Adds a touch of acidity.
- Onion, carrots, celery – Classic soup base (aka “mirepoix”).
- Garlic powder, basil, parsley – Simple but flavorful seasoning blend.
For the Roux (Thickener):
- Butter + flour – Creates a creamy base. Use gluten-free flour if needed.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Slow Cook the Soup Base
- In a 6-quart slow cooker, combine:
- Broth, tomatoes, potatoes, onion, carrots, celery, parsley, garlic powder, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on:
- Low for 6-8 hours (best for all-day cooking)
- High for 3-4 hours (quicker option)
2. Brown the Beef & Cook Bacon
- About 30 minutes before serving, brown the ground beef, drain grease, and add to the slow cooker.
- Cook bacon until crispy, chop, and add to the soup (reserve some for garnish).
3. Make the Creamy Roux
- In the same pan, melt butter, whisk in flour, then slowly add half-and-half.
- Cook 2-3 minutes until thickened, then stir into the soup.
4. Add Cheese & Serve
- Stir in shredded cheese until melted.
- Garnish with extra bacon, green onions, or cheese!
Pro Tips for the Best Soup
✅ Cut Potatoes Evenly – Ensures even cooking.
🔥 Crisp the Bacon Well – Extra crunch = better texture.
🧂 Season at the End – Broth reduces, so taste before adding extra salt.
🥛 Don’t Boil After Adding Dairy – Prevents curdling.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
❄ Meal Prep Friendly – Keeps in the fridge for 3-4 days.
⏳ Freezer Option – Freeze before adding dairy for best texture. Thaw, reheat, then stir in cream & cheese.
🍲 Reheating – Warm on the stove over low heat to prevent separation.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
How to Serve It:
🍞 With Crusty Bread – Perfect for dipping!
🥗 Side Salad – A fresh green salad balances the richness.
🌶 Spicy Kick – Top with hot sauce or diced jalapeños.
Fun Variations:
🧀 Loaded Baked Potato Style – Top with sour cream & chives.
🍗 Chicken Swap – Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of beef.
🌱 Vegetarian Version – Skip the meat, add mushrooms or white beans.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Potato Bacon Soup is hearty, flavorful, and foolproof—a guaranteed family favorite! Whether you need an easy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this soup delivers.
Ready to make it? Grab your slow cooker and let’s get cooking!
Tried this recipe? Let us know how your family liked it in the comments! 😍👇