01 -
Peel and dice 3 lbs Russet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Dice 1 medium yellow onion and mince 3 cloves garlic. Add potatoes, onion, garlic, 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth, 1 tsp kosher salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper to a 6-quart or larger crockpot.
02 -
Cook 8 slices thick-cut bacon until crispy. Drain excess fat, then crumble the bacon. Set half aside for garnish and the other half will be incorporated into your Easy Crockpot Loaded Baked Potato Soup later.
03 -
Cover the crockpot and cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours or LOW for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are very tender. This forms the hearty base for your delicious Easy Crockpot Loaded Baked Potato Soup.
04 -
Once potatoes are tender, use a potato masher to lightly mash about half of the potatoes directly in the crockpot for desired consistency. Stir in 2 cups whole milk, 4 oz softened cream cheese, and 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream until well combined.
05 -
Stir in 1.5 cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and the reserved half of the crumbled bacon. Continue to cook on HIGH for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through and creamy.
06 -
Stir in 1/2 tsp smoked paprika. Ladle the warm Easy Crockpot Loaded Baked Potato Soup into bowls. Garnish each serving with the remaining 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, the rest of the crumbled bacon, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh green onions.