CROCK POT CRACK SOUP

I’ll never forget the first time I tasted a soup so comforting, so undeniably delicious, that I practically inhaled the entire bowl. It was at a friend’s potluck, and from that moment on, I was on a mission to recreate that magic. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Best Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup you’ll ever make, guaranteed to become a family favorite!

The Ultimate Comfort Food: Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup

Oh, friends, are you ready for a soup that’s so good, it’s practically addictive? I’m talking about Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup, a creamy, cheesy, bacon-filled masterpiece that’s perfect for chilly evenings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. This isn’t just any potato soup; it’s the potato soup. And the best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make, thanks to our trusty slow cooker.

Forget slaving over a hot stove for hours. With this recipe, you can simply toss everything into your crock pot, set it, and forget it. Seriously, it’s that simple. And the result? A rich, flavorful soup that will have everyone begging for seconds (and the recipe!). Prepare to be amazed!

Why This Crock Pot Potato Soup is the BEST

So, what makes this particular Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup so special? Well, it’s a combination of factors, really. We’re talking about:

• Effortless Preparation: Seriously, it’s mostly dump-and-go. Minimal chopping, minimal stirring, maximum flavor.
• Incredible Flavor: The slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a depth of taste you just can’t achieve on the stovetop.
• Creamy Texture: We’re talking about velvety smooth goodness in every spoonful.
• Customizable: Want to add a little kick? Throw in some diced jalapeños. Prefer a different cheese? Go for it! This recipe is your canvas.
• Crowd-Pleaser: I’ve made this soup for countless gatherings, and it’s always a hit. It’s the kind of dish that disappears in minutes.

Basically, this recipe is a guaranteed win. Trust me on this one!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the recipe itself, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make this magical soup:

• Potatoes: 5 pounds, peeled and cubed (Russet or Yukon Gold work best)
• Chicken Broth: 6 cups (low sodium is recommended, so you can control the salt level)
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, softened
• Sour Cream: 1 cup
• Bacon: 1 pound, cooked and crumbled (reserve some for topping!)
• Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded (reserve some for topping!)
• Ranch Dressing Mix: 1 packet (the secret ingredient!)
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Optional Toppings: Green onions, extra cheese, bacon bits, hot sauce

See? Nothing too fancy or hard to find. Most of these ingredients are probably already in your kitchen!

Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Make Soup!

Alright, now for the fun part! Let’s walk through the steps to creating this culinary masterpiece. Don’t worry, I’ll be with you every step of the way.

1. Prep the Potatoes: Peel and cube the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Try to keep them roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot: Add the cubed potatoes, chicken broth, chopped onion, and minced garlic to your slow cooker. Give it a good stir.
3. Season and Cook: Sprinkle the Ranch dressing mix over the potato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later, so start with a little less.
4. Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are very tender. They should be easily pierced with a fork.
5. Mash (Optional): If you prefer a slightly thicker soup, you can use a potato masher or an immersion blender to partially mash the potatoes. Be careful not to over-blend, you still want some chunks!
6. Add the Creamy Goodness: Stir in the softened cream cheese until it’s completely melted and smooth. This is where the magic happens!
7. Incorporate Sour Cream and Cheese: Gently stir in the sour cream and most of the shredded cheddar cheese (reserve some for topping).
8. Add the Bacon: Add most of the cooked and crumbled bacon (again, reserve some for topping).
9. Taste and Adjust: Give the soup a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might need a little more salt, pepper, or even a touch of garlic powder.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the reserved cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and any other toppings you desire. Green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or a drizzle of hot sauce are all fantastic options.

And there you have it! Creamy, dreamy, utterly irresistible Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup. I guarantee you won’t be able to stop at just one bowl!

Success Tips for the BEST Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup

Okay, so you’ve got the recipe, but I want to make sure you absolutely nail it. Here are a few of my top tips for guaranteed success:

• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Overcooked potatoes can become mushy, which will affect the texture of the soup. Check them regularly towards the end of the cooking time.
• Soften the Cream Cheese: This is crucial for a smooth and creamy soup. Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before adding it to the crock pot. You can even microwave it for a few seconds to speed up the process.
• Use High-Quality Bacon: The bacon adds a ton of flavor to this soup, so it’s worth splurging on good quality bacon. Cook it until it’s nice and crispy for the best results.
• Control the Salt: Ranch dressing mix and bacon both contain salt, so be careful not to over-salt the soup. Taste it before adding any extra salt.
• Get Creative with Toppings: The toppings are what really take this soup to the next level. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations.

Variations and Substitutions: Make it Your Own!

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can customize it to your liking. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the crock pot for a little bit of heat. You can also top the soup with sliced jalapeños.
• Cheesy: Use a blend of different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a little bit of blue cheese.
• Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add some sautéed vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers.
• Low-Carb: Substitute cauliflower florets for some of the potatoes to reduce the carb content.
• Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Add a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of green onions, and a pat of butter to each bowl for a truly decadent experience.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own perfect combination! That’s what cooking is all about, right?

Serving Suggestions: Beyond the Bowl

While this Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is delicious on its own, here are a few ideas for serving it up in style:

• With a Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing! The creamy soup and the cheesy sandwich are a match made in heaven.
• As a Dip: Serve the soup as a warm dip with tortilla chips or crusty bread.
• In Bread Bowls: Hollow out some bread bowls and fill them with the soup for a fun and festive presentation.
• As a Side Dish: Serve a small bowl of soup alongside a salad or a main course.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this soup is sure to be a hit!

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

Another great thing about this Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is that it can be made ahead of time. Simply prepare the soup according to the instructions, let it cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

You can also freeze this soup for longer storage. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Be sure to leave some room at the top of the container, as the soup will expand as it freezes. The soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it as described above.

Just a note: the texture of the soup may change slightly after freezing and thawing, but it will still be delicious!

What to Serve with Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup

Looking for the perfect side dish to complement your creamy, dreamy potato soup? Here are a few of my favorites:

• Crusty Bread: For dipping and soaking up all that delicious soup!
• Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Okay, maybe not *with* the soup, but if you’re looking for another creamy, comforting dish, this is it!
• Side Salad: A light and refreshing salad to balance out the richness of the soup.
• Grilled Cheese: As mentioned before, a classic pairing that never fails to please.

Troubleshooting: Common Problems and Solutions

Even with the easiest recipes, sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are a few common problems you might encounter and how to fix them:

• Soup is Too Thick: Add more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
• Soup is Too Thin: Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the soup. Simmer for a few minutes until the soup thickens. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup.
• Soup is Bland: Add more salt, pepper, garlic powder, or Ranch dressing mix. You can also try adding a splash of hot sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice.
• Cream Cheese Won’t Melt: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before adding it to the crock pot. If it’s still not melting, you can microwave it for a few seconds or stir it in a separate bowl with a little bit of warm chicken broth.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and adjust the recipe until it’s perfect for you!

A Little More About Potato Varieties

Choosing the right potato can make a subtle but noticeable difference in your soup. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Russet Potatoes: High in starch, they break down easily, contributing to a thicker soup. They’re a great choice if you want a creamier, more substantial texture.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes: These have a naturally buttery flavor and a slightly waxy texture. They hold their shape a bit better than Russets, giving your soup some nice potato chunks.
• Red Potatoes: With their waxy texture, red potatoes will maintain their shape beautifully throughout the cooking process. They’re a good option if you prefer your potato soup to have distinct potato pieces.

Ultimately, the best potato to use is the one you prefer! Feel free to experiment and see which variety you like best in this Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup.

Slow Cooker Size Matters

This recipe is designed for a standard 6-quart slow cooker. If you have a smaller slow cooker, you may need to reduce the ingredient quantities slightly. A larger slow cooker is fine, but the soup may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on it. The goal is to ensure the potatoes are cooked through without becoming mushy.

Final Thoughts: Get Ready to be Amazed!

So there you have it – my ultimate recipe for the Best Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup. I’ve shared all my secrets, tips, and tricks, so now it’s your turn to get in the kitchen and create some magic. I promise you won’t be disappointed. This soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and it’s so easy to make that you’ll be whipping it up on repeat. Get ready for a soup that’s so good, it’s practically addictive!

Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup

5 from 1 vote

This Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is an addictively delicious and comforting dish, perfect for chilly evenings. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with bacon, it’s a simple dump-and-go recipe that will quickly become a family favorite. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together, creating a depth of taste that’s simply irresistible.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 7 hours hrs

Total Time 7 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 5 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed Russet or Yukon Gold
• 6 cups chicken broth low sodium
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 packet Ranch dressing mix
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: green onions, extra cheese, bacon bits, hot sauce

Equipment

• 6-quart slow cooker (crock pot)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Potato peeler
• Mixing Spoon
• Potato masher or immersion blender (optional)
• Bowls for serving

Method

 

1. Peel and cube the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
2. Add the cubed potatoes, chicken broth, chopped onion, and minced garlic to your slow cooker.
3. Give it a good stir.
4. Sprinkle the Ranch dressing mix over the potato mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are very tender.
7. If you prefer a thicker soup, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to partially mash the potatoes.
8. Stir in the softened cream cheese until it’s completely melted and smooth.
9. Gently stir in the sour cream and most of the shredded cheddar cheese (reserve some for topping).
10. Add most of the cooked and crumbled bacon (reserve some for topping).
11. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed.
12. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the reserved cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and any other toppings you desire.

Notes

For best results, soften the cream cheese before adding it to the slow cooker. Use high-quality bacon for the most flavor. Be mindful of the salt content from the ranch dressing mix and bacon when seasoning. This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth. If it’s too thin, mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it in, simmering until thickened. Consider adding jalapeños for a spicy kick.