Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich flavors of cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch seasoning, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. This hearty soup is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy days or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
6 cups diced potatoes (peeled)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional garnishes: extra cheese, bacon bits, chopped green onions, or chives
Directions:
Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes into even-sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly.
Layer in Crock Pot: Place the diced potatoes at the bottom of your crock pot. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix evenly over the potatoes. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
Add Broth: Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the ingredients in the crock pot, making sure it covers the potatoes and other layers.
Cook: Set your crock pot to low and cook for 7-8 hours, or on high for 4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
Finish the Soup: Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the crock pot.
Garnish and Serve: Serve the soup hot with optional garnishes like extra cheese, bacon bits, or chopped green onions for added flavor and texture.
Serving Tips:
Garnish for Extra Flavor: Enhance the soup with optional garnishes such as extra shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, or fresh chives. These toppings add a burst of flavor and texture to each bowl.
Accompaniments: Pair the soup with a side of crusty bread, crackers, or a simple green salad for a complete meal. A side of garlic bread or a warm baguette also complements the creamy soup beautifully.
Temperature: Serve the soup hot for the best flavor. If you need to reheat, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of extra broth or cream if the soup has thickened.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat only the portion you plan to serve to maintain the best texture.
Freezing: If you plan to freeze the soup, let it cool completely and transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. To prevent the cream from separating, consider freezing the soup without the cream and stirring it in after reheating.
Reheating: Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add a splash of cream or broth if needed to adjust the consistency.
Avoid Overcooking: To prevent the potatoes from becoming too mushy, avoid reheating the soup multiple times. Instead, reheat only the amount needed for each serving.
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FAQs:
Can I use any type of potatoes for this soup?
Yes, you can use different types of potatoes, but russet potatoes are recommended for their starchy texture, which helps thicken the soup. Yukon gold or red potatoes are also good options if you prefer a slightly different texture.
Can I make this soup without heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. For a dairy-free alternative, use coconut milk or a non-dairy creamer. The soup will still be creamy but with a slightly different flavor profile.
Can I add vegetables or other ingredients to this soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the soup by adding vegetables like carrots, celery, or corn. You can also stir in some cooked chicken for extra protein or top with croutons for added crunch.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add a bit of heat to your Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or a pinch of red pepper flakes. Adjust the spice level to your preference by adding a little at a time and tasting as you go.
Conclusion:
This Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is a go-to for anyone craving a rich, creamy, and satisfying meal with minimal effort. The combination of cheddar cheese, bacon, and ranch seasoning creates an irresistible flavor profile that is both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a meal for the week, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
📖 Recipe:
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Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
Hearty and comforting, this Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is the ultimate slow-cooker meal packed with rich flavors of cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch seasoning. Perfect for busy days, this creamy soup is easy to make and ideal for feeding a crowd. Let the crock pot do the work for a deliciously satisfying bowl of comfort food.
Ingredients
6 cups diced potatoes (peeled)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional garnishes: extra cheese, bacon bits, chopped green onions, or chives
Instructions
- Peel and dice the potatoes into even-sized pieces.
- In the crock pot, layer the diced potatoes at the bottom. Sprinkle ranch seasoning over the potatoes. Add shredded cheese and crumbled bacon on top.
- Pour the broth over the layered ingredients, ensuring the liquid covers them.
- Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in heavy cream, season with salt and pepper. For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender.
- Serve with optional garnishes like extra cheese, bacon bits, or chopped green onions.
Notes
For a smoother texture, blend the soup with an immersion blender before serving.
Adjust the seasoning to taste and add more cream or broth if needed.
If freezing, omit the cream and add it after reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7-8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker (Crock Pot)
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 400 kcal
