Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days or when you need a hearty, satisfying meal. It’s creamy, rich, and packed with flavors of cheese, bacon, and ranch, making it an irresistible crowd-pleaser. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make with minimal prep, thanks to the convenience of your slow cooker. Just set it and forget it until it’s time to enjoy a warm, comforting bowl.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Frozen hash brown potatoes
• Chicken broth
• Cream cheese
• Cheddar cheese
• Ranch seasoning mix
• Cooked bacon, crumbled
• Sour cream
• Green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Add the frozen hash brown potatoes, chicken broth, ranch seasoning mix, and half of the crumbled bacon to the Crock Pot.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, add the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Stir well to combine until the cheeses are melted and the soup is creamy.
4. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with the remaining bacon and chopped green onions.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings.
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
• Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes (on low) or 3 hours 10 minutes (on high)

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Protein Boost: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken for added protein.
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and omit the bacon or use vegetarian bacon alternatives.
• Cheese Lover’s Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for unique flavors.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
• Freezing: This soup can be frozen, but note that the dairy may separate slightly upon thawing. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, you can substitute with peeled and diced fresh potatoes. Adjust the cooking time slightly as fresh potatoes may take longer to soften.

2. What type of cream cheese should I use?

Regular full-fat cream cheese gives the best creamy texture, but you can use light cream cheese if preferred.

3. Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of a Crock Pot?

Yes, cook the potatoes and broth in a large pot over medium heat until the potatoes are tender. Then, stir in the cheeses, sour cream, and bacon.

4. Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! Ensure your ranch seasoning mix and broth are certified gluten-free.

5. How do I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?

Mash some of the potatoes directly in the Crock Pot with a potato masher or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).

6. Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier.

7. What can I serve with Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup?

It pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or a simple sandwich.

8. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Yes, turkey bacon works well and is a leaner alternative.

9. How do I prevent the cream cheese from clumping?

Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before adding it to the soup, and stir well until fully incorporated.

10. Can I add vegetables to this soup?

Definitely! Add vegetables like carrots, celery, or corn for added texture and nutrition.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy, cheesy goodness combined with the savory flavors of bacon and ranch make it a family favorite. With simple ingredients, minimal prep, and customizable variations, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again.

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