POTATO SOUP WITH CREAM CHEESE

Potato Soup with Cream Cheese image

This is a family favorite throughout the fall and winter! It's easy to prep and great for a lazy day, filling the house with aroma. Have extended family and guests? Simply double the quantity of each item. It's that easy! I derived the potato soup with cream cheese base compliments of Panera Bread®. I added a few extras over time to appeal to the whole family. This a well balanced, full-flavored soup, with a hint of trailing heat compliments of cayenne. If you have picky "little" ones you can substitute red pepper flakes as a side garnishment. Serve with sharp shredded cheese and a loaf a fresh beer bread!

Provided by csdavis

Categories Soups, Stews and Chili Recipes Soup Recipes Vegetable Soup Recipes Potato Soup Recipes

Time 4h20m

Yield 5

Number Of Ingredients 11

Ingredients

2 (14.5 ounce) cans chicken broth
4 cups cubed red potatoes
¼ cup minced onion
½ teaspoon garlic salt
½ teaspoon seasoned salt
½ teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon dried parsley
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
8 slices smoked bacon, cut into 1/4-inch strips

Steps:

Combine broth, potatoes, onion, garlic salt, seasoned salt, sea salt, cayenne, basil, and parsley in a slow cooker. Cover and cook until potatoes are tender on Low, 6 to 8 hours, or on High, 4 to 6 hours.
Use a potato masher to mash the potatoes in the slow cooker to preferred consistency. Add the cream cheese in spoonfuls to melt until smooth.
Meanwhile, place bacon in a large skillet and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until evenly browned, about 10 minutes. Drain bacon slices on paper towels. Stir into soup or set aside as a serving garnishment. Heat until ready to serve.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 267.2 calories, Carbohydrate 6.9 g, Cholesterol 69 mg, Fat 22.2 g, Fiber 0.7 g, Protein 10.1 g, SaturatedFat 11.9 g, Sodium 1616.8 mg, Sugar 1.4 g