Sweet & Savory Alpine Potato Soup
Inspired by my grandmother-in-law’s German/Swiss roots, this hearty soup brings old-world comfort with a modern twist. It blends creamy Idaho potatoes with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, all simmered to perfection in the crock pot—because who has time to babysit the stove? Smoky bacon bits, savory Italian sausage, and a touch of rich cream take it over the top. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory, warm and cozy—like a hug in a bowl, but with way less awkward arm placement.
Servings 6
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed Idaho potatoes insides of 4-6 potato skins
- 1 cup cooked sweet potato insides insides of 2-4 sweet potatoes
- 1 lb Italian sausage links, sliced we like the Trader Joe's chicken sausages
- 1/2 cup bacon bits
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 green onions chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for added heat optional
Instructions
- Brown the sausage (optional but recommended) – In a skillet, cook the Italian sausage until browned, then drain and add it to the slow cooker. If you’re feeling extra lazy, you can just add it into the slow cooker, but browning adds more flavor.
- Sauté the onions & garlic (optional but enhances flavor) – If you’re already using the skillet, sauté the onions until translucent, then add garlic for 30 seconds. Dump it all into the slow cooker.
- Add everything else into the crock pot – Toss in the mashed potatoes, sweet potato insides, bacon bits, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and any spices you want (cayenne, smoked paprika, etc.). Stir well.
- Set it and forget it – Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Blend (if desired) – Before serving, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you want a chunkier soup, skip this step.
- Stir in the heavy whipping cream – Mix it in just before serving to keep it from curdling.
- Top with green onions, extra bacon bits, and sharp cheddar cheese and enjoy!