Instructions:

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to create this delicious Slow Cooker Creamy Potato Bacon Soup.

Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. In your slow cooker, combine the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, peeled and diced potatoes, diced yellow onion, shredded carrots, diced celery, dried parsley, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
2. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or if you’re in a hurry, you can cook it on high for 3 to 4 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld and the potatoes to become tender.

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Prepare the Bacon

1. About 30 minutes before serving, it’s time to prepare the meat. In a separate pan, brown the ground beef. Make sure to drain any excess grease before adding it to the slow cooker.
2. Fry or bake the bacon until it’s crispy and delicious. Once done, chop it into small pieces and transfer them to the slow cooker as well.

Step 3: Create a Creamy Roux

1. Wipe out the pan used for the ground beef, removing any excess grease.
2. In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Gradually whisk in the flour until it forms a smooth paste.
4. Slowly pour in the half and half, continuing to whisk vigorously for about 2-3 minutes, until the mixture thickens.

Step 4: Add Creaminess to the Soup

1. Carefully pour the creamy mixture (roux and half and half) into the slow cooker, stirring to combine it with the rest of the soup.
2. Now, add the shredded cheddar cheese or pepper jack cheese and stir again. Cover the slow cooker and let the cheese melt for a few minutes.
3. Just before serving, give the soup a final good stir or two to ensure that the cheese is fully incorporated.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Ladle the piping hot Slow Cooker Creamy Potato Bacon Soup into bowls.
2. Garnish each serving with green onions and reserved chopped bacon.
3. It’s time to savor the irresistible flavors of your homemade creamy potato bacon soup. Enjoy