If you are craving a bowl of comfort that warms your heart and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas, the Slow Cooker Ham, Bacon & Potato Soup Recipe is your new best friend. This rich and creamy soup combines hearty chunks of potatoes, smoky bacon, and savory ham in a luscious broth that’s perfect for any day you need a little extra coziness. With minimal prep and a slow cooker doing all the work, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into an amazing meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Slow Cooker Ham, Bacon & Potato Soup Recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward, easy to find, and each plays a significant role in building that perfect balance of flavors and textures you’ll love.
- Russett Potatoes: Starchy and hearty, these potatoes give the soup its creamy body and satisfying bite when cubed just right.
- Yellow Onion: Adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor that forms the savory base of the soup.
- Carrots: Bring a subtle natural sweetness and vibrant color, brightening up every spoonful.
- Thick Cut Bacon: For that unbeatable smoky crunch and crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes.
- Ham Cubes: Provide a rich, meaty savoriness and hearty protein that makes the soup truly filling.
- Parsley: A touch of freshness to lift the flavors and add some herbal brightness.
- Chicken Broth: The flavorful liquid base that melds all the ingredients together with warmth.
- Milk: Adds creaminess and smoothness to balance the robust flavors.
- Sour Cream: Gives a slight tang and velvety richness that elevates the texture.
- Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Melts into a luscious layer of cheesy goodness for that ultimate comfort food feel.
How to Make Slow Cooker Ham, Bacon & Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by cutting the thick cut bacon into one-inch pieces. Cook them in a large skillet over medium-high heat until they’re beautifully browned and crispy. This step is key because those crispy bacon bits will add incredible texture and smoky flavor throughout your soup.
Step 2: Drain the Bacon
Once cooked, transfer the bacon pieces to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess grease. This keeps your soup from becoming greasy while preserving all that smoky deliciousness.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
Next, add your cubed potatoes, diced yellow onion, sliced carrots, ham cubes, the reserved bacon, chicken broth, and parsley into the slow cooker. This is where the magic begins as the flavors slowly meld together during cooking.
Step 4: Stir to Mix
Give everything a good stir to evenly distribute the ingredients and ensure the parsley and broth surround each piece, encouraging maximum flavor infusion.
Step 5: Cook Low and Slow
Set your slow cooker to high and cook for four hours, or if you prefer, cook on low for 7 to 8 hours. Patience here pays off because the longer cooking time softens the potatoes perfectly and lets all the savory flavors deepen.
Step 6: Add Creamy Ingredients
When the cooking time is up, turn off the slow cooker. Stir in the milk, sour cream, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. These ingredients melt into the soup, creating that irresistible creaminess and rich flavor that feels indulgent yet homey.
Step 7: Final Stir and Serve
Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and luscious. Serve immediately for the best experience, enjoying each spoonful of this hearty, flavorful Slow Cooker Ham, Bacon & Potato Soup Recipe.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Ham, Bacon & Potato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To really make this soup pop, top it with fresh garnishes like chopped green onions, extra shredded cheddar, or even a dollop of sour cream. Crispy extra bacon pieces also add a delightful finish and elevate each bite to new heights of comfort food bliss.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with simple sides like warm crusty bread, garlic rolls, or a fresh green salad. The bread is perfect for dipping into that creamy broth, while a crisp salad adds a refreshing counterpoint to the rich soup.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bread bowls for a charming presentation that keeps everyone cozy. You can also layer it in clear glasses with a sprinkling of cheese and bacon on top for a fun, elegant appetizer twist that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Ham, Bacon & Potato Soup Recipe stores beautifully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld overnight, often making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
To save for later, freeze the soup in sturdy freezer-safe containers or resealable bags for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave room for expansion, and avoid adding the milk, sour cream, and cheese before freezing—they’re best added fresh after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat leftover soup gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring frequently. Add the milk, sour cream, and cheese during reheating for that creamy texture to come back to life. Avoid boiling to keep the dairy from separating.
FAQs
Can I use smoked ham instead of regular ham cubes?
Absolutely! Smoked ham can add an even deeper smoky flavor that complements the bacon perfectly. Just adjust the salt accordingly since smoked ham can be saltier.
Is it possible to make this soup without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make it on the stove by simmering the diced potatoes and vegetables in broth until tender, then adding cooked bacon, ham, and the creamy ingredients at the end. Just be sure to cook on low heat and stir often to prevent scorching.
Can I substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative?
Definitely. Unsweetened almond milk or oat milk work well and still give the soup a creamy texture without dairy. Just choose varieties that are plain and unflavored for the best taste.
What if I want the soup thicker? Any tips?
If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes with a spoon before adding the dairy ingredients. This naturally thickens the broth while keeping it hearty and delicious.
Can I add extra vegetables to this soup?
Of course! Peas, corn, or green beans can be great additions. Just add them in the last hour of cooking to keep them tender but not mushy.
Final Thoughts
Making the Slow Cooker Ham, Bacon & Potato Soup Recipe is truly like inviting a warm, tasty hug into your home. With its creamy texture, smoky bursts of bacon, and savory ham, every spoonful brings simple ingredients to life in the most comforting way. Don’t wait for a chilly day to try this — it’s always the perfect time to slow down and savor some homemade goodness.
Print
Slow Cooker Ham, Bacon & Potato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting Slow Cooker Ham, Bacon & Potato Soup perfect for chilly days. This creamy soup combines tender potatoes, savory ham, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese, slow-cooked to develop deep flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 5 Russett Potatoes, cut into 1/2″ cubes
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 cup sliced carrots (about 10 baby carrots cut)
Meats
- 1 lb thick cut bacon
- 1 lb ham cubes
Liquids & Dairy
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Spices & Herbs
- 1 teaspoon parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: Cut bacon into 1-inch pieces and cook them in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned and crispy. This step renders the bacon fat and adds a smoky flavor to the soup.
- Drain Bacon: Transfer the cooked bacon pieces to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease and cool slightly.
- Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: In the slow cooker, add the cubed potatoes, diced onion, sliced carrots, ham cubes, cooked bacon, chicken broth, and parsley.
- Mix Ingredients: Stir all the ingredients well to evenly distribute the bacon, ham, and vegetables throughout the broth.
- Cook the Soup: Cover the crockpot and cook the mixture on high for 4 hours or on low for 7 to 8 hours until the potatoes and carrots are tender and flavors meld together.
- Add Dairy and Cheese: Once cooked, turn off the crockpot and stir in the milk, sour cream, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy.
- Serve: Stir well and serve the soup immediately, enjoying the rich, savory flavors and comforting warmth.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the crockpot before adding dairy ingredients.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt level if preferred.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Adding a sprinkle of fresh chives or green onions before serving adds a fresh touch.
- Swap sharp cheddar for smoked gouda for a different cheesy flavor profile.
