SLOW-COOKED LOADED POTATO SOUP

Slow-Cooked Loaded Potato Soup image

I put a twist on one of my favorite comfort foods that my grandmother used to make. I look forward to passing this down to my kids. -Jamie Chase, Rising Sun, Indiana

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 8h45m

Yield 12 servings (4 quarts).

Number Of Ingredients 13

Ingredients

5 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 10 cups)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
5 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) chicken broth
1 garlic clove, minced
1-1/2 teaspoons salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened and cubed
1 cup half-and-half cream
1/4 cup butter, cubed
TOPPINGS:
1 pound bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup minced chives

Steps:

Place potatoes and onion in a 6-qt. slow cooker; add broth, garlic, salt and pepper. Cook, covered, on low 8-10 hours or until potatoes are tender., Mash potatoes to desired consistency. Stir in cream cheese, cream and butter. Cook, covered, 15 minutes longer or until heated through., Just before serving, whisk soup to combine. Top servings with bacon, cheese and chives.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 447 calories, Fat 27g fat (14g saturated fat), Cholesterol 86mg cholesterol, Sodium 1512mg sodium, Carbohydrate 37g carbohydrate (5g sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 14g protein.