Delicious slow cooker potato soup with leeks and bacon in a bowl

why make this recipe

Slow Cooker Potato Soup with Leeks and Bacon is a comforting dish that warms you up, especially on chilly days. This recipe is easy to prepare and requires minimal active cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of creamy potatoes, flavorful leeks, and crispy bacon creates a delicious blend of textures and flavors. Plus, it’s made in a slow cooker, so you can set it and forget it!

how to make Slow Cooker Potato Soup with Leeks and Bacon

Ingredients :

4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
1 leek, cleaned and sliced
4 slices bacon, diced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped chives for garnish

Directions :

In a slow cooker, combine the diced potatoes, sliced leeks, and diced bacon.
Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the potatoes are tender.
Once cooked, use a potato masher to mash some of the soup to create a creamy texture.
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with chopped chives before serving.

how to serve Slow Cooker Potato Soup with Leeks and Bacon

Serve your potato soup hot, ensuring everyone gets a sprinkle of fresh chives on top. This soup goes well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. You can also offer extra cheese or bacon bits for those who want to customize their bowls.

how to store Slow Cooker Potato Soup with Leeks and Bacon

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a bit of extra chicken broth or cream to return it to the desired consistency.

tips to make Slow Cooker Potato Soup with Leeks and Bacon

Make sure to clean the leek thoroughly, as dirt can hide between its layers.
For a healthier version, you can use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.
Adjust the consistency by mashing more or fewer potatoes based on your texture preference.
Adding garlic or herbs like thyme can enhance the flavor even more.

variation

You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like carrots or celery for added nutrition. If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes! While russet potatoes work well, you can also try Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a different flavor and texture.

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup in portioned containers. Just keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can swap the heavy cream with coconut milk and omit the cheese or use dairy-free cheese to make it dairy-free.