Step-by-step instructions
- In your slow cooker, combine the potatoes, chopped onion, chicken broth, ranch seasoning, butter, and half of the crumbled bacon. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything evenly.
- Cover and cook on HIGH for about 4 hours or LOW for 6 hours, until the potatoes are incredibly soft and easily mashable.
- Once done, stir in the softened cream cheese and heavy cream. Allow them to melt together, then mix well until fully incorporated.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and finish with extra bacon, additional cheese, and a sprinkle of chives for flair.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serve your Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup hot, garnished with crispy bacon bits, a handful of shredded cheese, and freshly chopped chives for that pop of green. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This soup also makes a great starter for a larger dinner party or holiday gathering.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your delicious soup fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you’re thinking ahead, this soup can also be frozen! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy texture.
Pro chef tips
- Preparation Shortcut: If you’re short on time, consider using frozen diced potatoes — they’ll save you the peeling and chopping time.
- Extra Creaminess: For an even richer flavor, blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender to create a thicker texture before adding back the full ingredients.
- Flavor Enhancements: Don’t hesitate to add other spices like garlic powder or cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
Creative twists
There are plenty of delicious ways to customize your Crack Potato Soup. Try adding sautéed garlic and mushrooms for an earthy flavor, or swap out the bacon for crispy pancetta or turkey bacon for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and add more veggies like carrots or corn!
FAQs
How long does this soup take to prep?
The prep time for Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is about 15 minutes, with most of the time coming from letting it cook in the slow cooker.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! To make it dairy-free, you can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and a dairy-free cheese alternative instead of cheddar cheese.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of chives?
Absolutely! Fresh parsley, dill, or even cilantro can be great alternatives for garnishing this soup, adding a fresh touch.
With its creamy richness and savory flavor, Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy experimenting with this comforting bowl of goodness!
