Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup 🥔

This Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is a creamy, cheesy delight that’s perfect for a cozy meal. It’s super easy to make in your slow cooker, making it a fantastic option for busy days. The combination of tender potatoes, savory ham, and creamy cheese creates a comforting bowl of soup that will warm you from the inside out.

Ingredients Overview

Main Ingredients

• Potatoes: Six cups of diced potatoes, peeled or unpeeled, serve as the hearty base of this soup.
• Onion: One medium onion, finely chopped, adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Ham: One cup of diced ham contributes a salty, savory note.
• Chicken Broth: Two cups provide the liquid foundation for the soup, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: One 10.5 oz can adds creaminess and richness.
• Cream Cheese: An 8 oz package of softened cream cheese melts into the soup, making it luxuriously creamy.
• Cheddar Cheese: Two cups of shredded cheddar cheese for that delicious, cheesy goodness.
• Bacon: One cup of cooked and crumbled bacon adds a crispy, smoky element.
• Green Onions: Half a cup of chopped green onions for a fresh, zesty garnish.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Dice the potatoes, onion, and ham.
• Soften the cream cheese by leaving it at room temperature or microwaving it for a few seconds.

Step 2: Combine in Crock Pot

• Add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, diced ham, chicken broth, and cream of chicken soup into the Crock Pot.
• Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.

Step 3: Cook

• Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Add Cream Cheese and Cheddar

• About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese.
• Continue to cook until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.

Step 5: Add Bacon and Green Onions

• Just before serving, stir in the cooked bacon and chopped green onions.
• Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

• Ladle the soup into bowls and top with additional cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions if desired.
• Enjoy this warm, comforting soup that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Valuable Tips for Seamless Cooking

Helpful Tip: Use Fresh Ingredients
Opt for fresh potatoes and onions for the best flavor and texture.

Helpful Tip: Prep Ahead
Dice the potatoes and onions the night before to save time in the morning.

Helpful Tip: Low and Slow
Cooking on low for a longer time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Microwave: Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave, covered, on medium power.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the cheddar with Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or any cheese that melts well.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, omit the ham and bacon, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, frozen diced potatoes can be used. Just add them directly to the Crock Pot.

How can I make the soup thicker?
For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before adding the cheese and cream cheese.

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Can I use low-fat cheese?
Yes, but the soup may not be as creamy. Full-fat cheese is recommended for best results.

How do I prevent the cream cheese from curdling?
Ensure the cream cheese is softened and stir it in well to prevent curdling.

Can I add vegetables?
Yes, adding carrots, celery, or corn would be delicious.

Can I use turkey bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon is a great alternative to pork bacon.

How can I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
You can make a homemade version or use cream of mushroom soup.

Can I cook this on the stovetop?
Yes, simmer the ingredients in a large pot until the potatoes are tender.

Is this soup gluten-free?
Ensure your cream of chicken soup and chicken broth are gluten-free, and it should be safe.

Can I use pre-cooked ham?
Yes, pre-cooked ham is convenient and works perfectly.

Can I omit the bacon?
Yes, the soup will still be delicious without the bacon.

Can I add more cheese?
Absolutely, feel free to add more cheese if desired.

Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, Yukon gold or red potatoes work well too.

How do I prevent the soup from being too salty?
Taste before adding salt, as the ham and bacon already contain salt.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes, use the sauté function for the initial steps and then pressure cook for a shorter time.

How can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cheese and cream cheese substitutes.

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