Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup – Delicious Comfort in No Time!
Short introduction
Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is a creamy, hearty soup that combines the comforting flavors of baked potatoes with the savory taste of bacon and cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a warm meal with minimal effort, this soup is a favorite among families. Simply throw all the ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it do the work for you.
Why you’ll love it
There are countless reasons to love Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients. The slow cooker method enhances the flavors, making it a delicious comfort food that pleases everyone from kids to adults. Additionally, it’s customizable, so you can adapt it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Plus, it’s a perfect way to warm up on chilly days or to serve at gatherings and potlucks.
Ingredients
- 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
Substitutions & key variations
If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you could easily use a mix of herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder for flavor. You can also substitute the heavy cream with a lower-fat option like milk or a dairy-free alternative if desired. For a vegetarian version, simply skip the bacon and use vegetable broth. Adding extra vegetables such as carrots or corn can also make this soup heartier.
Step-by-step
Step 1
Peel and dice the potatoes into even-sized pieces. This ensures that they cook evenly in the crock pot.
Step 2
Layer the diced potatoes at the bottom of the crock pot. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning over the potatoes for incredible flavor. Then, add the shredded cheese and crumbled bacon on top.
Step 3
Pour the broth over the layered ingredients, making sure the liquid covers everything. This will keep the potatoes moist as they cook.
Step 4
Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
Step 5
Once the potatoes are cooked, stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper. For a smoother consistency, feel free to use an immersion blender until you reach your desired texture.
Step 6
Serve hot with optional garnishes like extra cheese, bacon bits, or chopped green onions to enhance the flavor and presentation.
Success tips
To achieve the best texture for your potato soup, avoid overcooking it. The potatoes should be tender, but not mushy. It’s also important to slice the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate. If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion of it for a creamier consistency.
How to serve
Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is best served warm. Ladle it into bowls and top with your choice of garnishes like extra cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions. For a complete meal, pair it with crusty bread or a light salad for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Storage & reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. This soup can be kept for about 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or milk to get the right consistency, as it may thicken when stored in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?
A: It’s best to use fresh potatoes for the best texture and flavor, but frozen potatoes can work if you thaw and drain them before using.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it before serving. Just be sure to store it properly in the fridge.
Q: Can I freeze Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup?
A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Store it in freezer-safe bags or containers. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm it up on the stove.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
This soup includes nutritious ingredients like potatoes, cheese, and bacon, providing a hearty meal. You can manage the calories by opting for lower-fat ingredients or serving smaller portions alongside a salad.
Conclusion + CTA
Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner or a delicious meal to share, this thick and creamy soup is sure to please. Grab your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and enjoy this hearty treat. Don’t forget to share your experience and variations in the comments below!
Links to related recipes
- Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
- Loaded Baked Potato Casserole
- Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Soup
- Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups diced potatoes, peeled Use fresh potatoes for the best texture.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Feel free to add more for extra cheesiness.
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon Can substitute with a vegetarian option.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix Or substitute with a mix of herbs.
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth Choose based on dietary preference.
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half) Lower-fat options can be used.
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
- extra cheese For topping.
- bacon bits For topping.
- chopped green onions For topping.
- chives For topping.
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, then add the shredded cheese and crumbled bacon on top.
- Pour the broth over the layered ingredients, ensuring the liquid covers everything.
Cooking
- 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 as desired.
- For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender.
- Serve hot with optional garnishes.