Creating a comforting bowl of Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a chilly day. This hearty soup, brimming with flavors of savory bacon, creamy cheese, and ranch seasoning, is undeniably satisfying. It’s an easy favorite for family dinners or gatherings—and the best part? You simply throw everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic!
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe checks all the boxes for a cozy meal. Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare, but it’s also budget-friendly and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re looking for a filling weeknight meal or a delicious dish to impress your guests, this soup delivers. The creamy texture and rich flavors make it a go-to choice, especially during the colder months.
“This is my new favorite soup! The flavors combine so beautifully, and I love how effortless it is to make. It’s perfect for those busy days!”
Step-by-step overview
Making Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is a straightforward process that ensures you get that creamy, cheesy goodness without spending hours in the kitchen. Gather your ingredients, layer them in your crock pot, and let time work for you. By the end of the cooking time, the potatoes will be tender, and the soup will be ready to devour!
Gather these items
To whip up this creamy delight, you’ll need:
- 6 cups diced potatoes (peeled)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: extra cheese, bacon bits, chopped green onions, or chives
Feel free to switch things up! For example, you can use turkey bacon for a lighter option, or use vegetable broth to make it vegetarian-friendly.
Directions to follow
- Peel and dice the potatoes into even-sized pieces.
- Layer the diced potatoes at the bottom of the crock pot.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning over the potatoes.
- Add the shredded cheese and crumbled bacon on top.
- Pour the broth over the layered ingredients, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to achieve your desired consistency.
- Serve it up with optional garnishes like extra cheese, bacon bits, or freshly chopped green onions.
Best ways to enjoy it
This Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a light green salad. For an extra hearty meal, consider serving it with grilled cheese sandwiches! Toppings like crispy bacon bits or a sprinkle of fresh chives will elevate the presentation and flavor.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store your leftover soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to two months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Pro chef tips
- For a richer flavor, sauté onions and garlic before adding them to the crock pot.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked bacon or even bacon bits.
- Don’t skip the ranch seasoning! It gives the soup its unique and flavorful profile.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with your soup! Here are a few variations you might enjoy:
- Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smokier flavor.
- Swap out some of the potatoes for cauliflower for a lighter, lower-carb version.
- Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a bit of a kick.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation is quick, usually around 15–20 minutes to peel and chop the potatoes, layer ingredients, and set your crock pot.
Can I use frozen potatoes?
While fresh potatoes yield the best texture, you can use frozen diced potatoes. Just remember to adjust the cooking time, as they may require a little longer to soften.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the bacon or replace it with a vegetarian-friendly option.
Now that you have all the details, it’s time to get cooking! This Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup will undoubtedly become a staple in your recipe repertoire, providing warm comfort and delight every time you make it. Enjoy!
Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups diced potatoes (peeled) Use even-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Feel free to experiment with different cheese types.
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon Turkey bacon can be used for a lighter option.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix Essential for the soup's unique flavor.
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half) For a lighter version, use half-and-half.
- to taste salt and pepper Adjust according to your preference.
Optional Garnishes
- extra cheese For a cheesy finish.
- bacon bits Enhances flavor and texture.
- chopped green onions Adds freshness.
- chives For a pop of color and flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Peel and dice the potatoes into even-sized pieces.
- Layer the diced potatoes at the bottom of the crock pot.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning over the potatoes.
- Add the shredded cheese and crumbled bacon on top.
- Pour the broth over the layered ingredients, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve with optional garnishes like extra cheese, bacon bits, or freshly chopped green onions.
