Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Soup

Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve 3 Tablespoons of bacon grease.

Place the bacon grease and potatoes into a 4-quart slow cooker.

Stir in chicken stock, onion, garlic, thyme, butter and bacon until well combined.

Cover and cook on low heat for 7 hours or high heat for 3 hours, or until potatoes are tender.

Stir in cheese and heavy cream until smooth. Taste and add additional with salt and pepper, as needed.

Cover and cook on low heat until warmed through. If the mixture is too thick, add more chicken stock as needed until desired consistency is reached.

Serve warm, garnished with desired toppings. Or, transfer to a container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. (And lots of tips for this recipe on Lauren-Lane.com)