Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as satisfying as a warm bowl of potato soup. And when you elevate that classic with cheesy goodness, crispy bacon, and a kick of ranch flavor, you get the irresistible Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup. This hearty dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly delicious, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with family and friends.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Set It and Forget It: The crock pot does all the heavy lifting for you, allowing you to enjoy your day without worrying about constant monitoring. Just prep your ingredients, set the timer, and let the magic happen!
2. Rich and Creamy: With the addition of heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version), this soup is decadently creamy and rich, providing that comfort food satisfaction we all crave.
3. Flavor-Packed: The combination of ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon creates an explosion of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
4. Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you want to add more veggies, switch up the cheese, or even make it vegetarian, the options are endless!

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this soup so special:

For the Soup:

• Diced Potatoes: The foundation of this soup. Use a starchy variety like Russet or Yukon Gold for the best texture. They break down beautifully during cooking, creating a creamy base.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the potatoes perfectly. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, for a twist.
• Cooked and Crumbled Bacon: This ingredient brings a savory crunch and smoky flavor that enhances the overall richness of the soup. You can also use turkey bacon or omit it for a vegetarian version.
• Ranch Seasoning Mix: The star of the show! This seasoning adds a creamy, herby taste that pairs wonderfully with the potatoes. You can use a store-bought packet or make your own blend with dried herbs and spices.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Provides the soup with depth and flavor. Using low-sodium broth allows you to control the saltiness of the final dish.
• Heavy Cream: This ingredient gives the soup its luxurious, velvety texture. For a lighter option, half-and-half works well too.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Optional Garnishes:

• Extra Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheese on top adds a melty finish.
• Bacon Bits: More crispy bacon brings added texture and flavor.
• Chopped Green Onions or Chives: Fresh herbs brighten the dish and add a pop of color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s walk through each step to ensure your Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup turns out perfectly every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by peeling and dicing 6 cups of potatoes into even-sized pieces. Uniformity is key here; it ensures that all the potatoes cook at the same rate and achieve that perfect tender texture. A sharp knife and a sturdy cutting board make this process easier and safer.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

In your crock pot, start layering the ingredients:

1. Place the diced potatoes at the bottom of the crock pot.
2. Sprinkle 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix evenly over the potatoes. This seasoning blend infuses the potatoes with incredible flavor as they cook.
3. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top, followed by ½ cup of cooked and crumbled bacon. The cheese melts beautifully, creating a creamy consistency, while the bacon adds that delightful crunch.

Step 3: Add the Broth

Pour 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth over the layered ingredients. Ensure the liquid just covers the potatoes; this helps in cooking them evenly while also developing a rich broth for the soup.

Step 4: Cook the Soup

Cover the crock pot and set it to cook. You have two options here:

• On Low: Cook for 7-8 hours for a deep, rich flavor as the ingredients meld together beautifully.
• On High: Cook for 4 hours if you’re short on time. The soup will still be delicious!

Check the potatoes for tenderness before proceeding to the next step. They should be soft enough to easily mash with a fork.

Step 5: Add Cream and Season

Once the potatoes are fully cooked, it’s time to add the creaminess. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream (or half-and-half) to the soup. This step transforms your dish from a simple potato soup into a luxurious creamy delight.

Next, season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the broth, cheese, and bacon will already add some saltiness, so adjust accordingly.

If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. Blend it lightly for a chunky texture or thoroughly for a creamy finish.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the hot soup into bowls, and don’t forget to garnish! Add extra shredded cheese, bacon bits, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions or chives for a fresh, vibrant touch. These garnishes not only enhance the visual appeal but also add layers of flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is perfect on its own, but here are a few serving ideas to elevate your meal:

1. Serve with Crusty Bread: Pair the soup with warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping. It’s the perfect way to soak up all that creamy goodness.
2. Make it a Meal: Add some cooked, shredded chicken or vegetables like corn and peas to make it a heartier dish.
3. Top with More Garnishes: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil just before serving.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (which is likely since this soup is so filling), here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Refrigeration: Place any cooled soup in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: While this soup can be frozen, the texture may change slightly after thawing. If you choose to freeze it, leave out the heavy cream and add it when reheating. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Final Thoughts: Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup

This Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is a deliciously creamy, flavor-packed meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. With its rich combination of potatoes, cheese, and bacon, enhanced by the tangy ranch seasoning, it’s comfort food at its finest.

So gather your ingredients, set your crock pot, and enjoy the delightful aromas wafting through your kitchen as this scrumptious soup cooks. Serve it up with your favorite garnishes and watch as everyone savors each delicious spoonful.

Enjoy! 🥔🥣✨