When it comes to warm, comforting soups, few are as satisfying as Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup. This creamy, savory soup blends diced potatoes, cheddar cheese, bacon, and a zesty ranch seasoning mix, creating a flavor-packed meal that will quickly become a favorite in your household. Perfect for chilly days or when you crave something hearty and indulgent, this soup offers the convenience of a slow cooker, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without much effort.
In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know to make the best Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup, from the ingredients to step-by-step instructions. Get ready to indulge in this creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious soup that promises to deliver both comfort and satisfaction in every bowl!
Why You’ll Love Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup
Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the flavors of creamy potatoes, savory bacon, and melty cheddar cheese. What makes it even more irresistible is the ranch seasoning mix, which brings an added depth of flavor to every spoonful.
Convenience of the Slow Cooker
One of the best parts about this soup is that it’s made in a slow cooker, allowing you to set it and forget it. This means you can have a hot, satisfying meal ready when you’re hungry with minimal preparation and clean-up. Simply add all the ingredients, let the Crock Pot work its magic, and in a few hours, you’ll be ready to indulge.
Rich and Hearty Flavor
The combination of potatoes, cheddar cheese, and bacon makes this soup a perfect hearty meal for any day of the week. Each ingredient complements the other perfectly, creating a rich and creamy base that’s satisfying enough to be a stand-alone dish or served with a side of crusty bread.
Ingredients for Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup
This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients, most of which you may already have in your pantry or refrigerator. Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful soup:
1. 6 Cups Diced Potatoes, Peeled
The potatoes are the heart of the soup, providing that creamy texture. Choose waxy potatoes, like Yukon Golds, as they hold their shape well during cooking and create a smooth, comforting base when cooked down.
2. 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
The cheddar cheese gives the soup its creamy, cheesy richness. Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the best melt and flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as sharp cheddar or even a blend of cheeses, for a more complex taste.
3. 1/2 Cup Cooked and Crumbled Bacon
Bacon adds the perfect touch of smokiness and crunch to the soup. The crumbled bacon is stirred in after the soup has cooked, giving it that signature “crack” flavor that’s so irresistible. You can cook the bacon yourself or use pre-cooked bacon bits for extra convenience.
4. 1 Packet Ranch Seasoning Mix
The ranch seasoning mix is the secret ingredient that transforms this simple soup into something spectacular. It adds a burst of flavor with a combination of tangy, herby, and savory notes that enhance the richness of the potatoes and cheese.
5. 4 Cups Chicken or Vegetable Broth
Chicken or vegetable broth serves as the base of the soup, adding depth and flavor. If you want a richer taste, opt for chicken broth, but vegetable broth works just as well if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup
Now that you have all your ingredients, it’s time to make this incredibly easy and delicious soup! Follow these simple steps to prepare your Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. This will help them cook evenly and break down into a creamy texture once the soup is ready.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Once cooked, crumble it into small pieces. You can also use store-bought bacon bits for a quicker option, but freshly cooked bacon will give you the best flavor.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Crock Pot
- Add the diced potatoes, broth, and the entire packet of ranch seasoning mix to the slow cooker.
- Stir everything together to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Cover the Crock Pot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 3: Make It Creamy
- Once the potatoes are fully cooked, use a potato masher to gently mash the potatoes in the slow cooker. You can mash them to your desired consistency, whether you prefer a chunky soup or a smoother texture.
- Add the cheddar cheese and stir until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the soup, creating a creamy, cheesy base.
- Stir in the crumbled bacon, reserving a small amount for garnish.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
- Once everything is well-mixed and the cheese is melted, taste the soup and add salt or pepper as needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the reserved bacon bits and extra shredded cheese, if desired. For an extra touch, you can also add a sprinkle of green onions or a dollop of sour cream.
Step 5: Enjoy Your Crack Potato Soup
Serve the soup hot with some crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors that will have you coming back for more!
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup
- Choosing the Right Potatoes: Opt for waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Red Potatoes, as they hold their shape well and create a smooth texture when mashed. Avoid starchy potatoes, like russets, which may fall apart too much.
- Bacon Tips: For the crispiest bacon, cook it until it’s golden and crunchy before crumbling. You can also use turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- Add More Cheese: For an even cheesier soup, feel free to add more shredded cheese at the end. You can also try other types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Colby Jack for a unique twist.
- Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or a regular blender, then return it to the slow cooker.
- Make It Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months, so you can enjoy it anytime you want a quick, hearty meal.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Comfort Food Recipe
Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is a crowd-pleasing, flavor-packed dish that’s incredibly easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, looking for a cozy weeknight meal, or just craving a warm bowl of comfort, this soup is sure to deliver. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and crispy bacon bits, it’s a surefire way to satisfy your hunger and warm you up from the inside out.
Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade soup made with love and convenience in the slow cooker. This recipe is one you’ll keep coming back to, time and time again.