Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bacon
Start by cooking the diced bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. Set the bacon aside, but leave a small amount of bacon grease in the skillet for the next step.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the chopped onion and cook until it’s softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. This step helps to build a depth of flavor in the soup.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the cooked onion and garlic to your slow cooker. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Cook the Soup
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Step 5: Thicken the Soup
About 30 minutes before the soup is done cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, then stir it into the slow cooker.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Bacon
If you’re using cheddar cheese, stir it into the soup at this point until it’s fully melted and incorporated. Add the crispy bacon to the soup, reserving a bit for garnish if desired. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the soup is creamy and hot, it’s ready to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the reserved bacon, green onions, or chives if you like. Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Tips for Success
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the potatoes before adding the milk and cream mixture. This will create a creamier texture without adding extra flour.
- Cheese: For a more pronounced cheesy flavor, you can add extra cheddar or even experiment with different types of cheese, like Gruyère or Parmesan.
- Bacon: For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a dash of smoked paprika to the soup.
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