Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup Recipe

Introduction:

Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is a creamy, comforting, and indulgent soup that’s perfect for chilly nights or when you need a dish that’s sure to please a crowd. Packed with hearty potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and just the right amount of seasoning, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. It’s called “Crack Potato Soup” for a reason — it’s so delicious, it might just be addictive!

This recipe is a set-it-and-forget-it kind of dish, where the slow cooker does all the work for you. You can start it in the morning and come home to a piping-hot, comforting bowl of soup ready to serve.

Ingredients:

• 6 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 6-8 slices)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
• 1/4 cup milk (optional, for desired consistency)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes:

Peel and cube the potatoes into small, bite-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly in the crockpot.

Add the cubed potatoes, diced onion, and minced garlic to your slow cooker.

2. Add Broth and Seasonings:

Pour in the chicken broth and add the onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine.

3. Cook the Soup:

Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and can easily be pierced with a fork.

4. Blend the Soup (Optional):

Once the potatoes are cooked, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash or blend part of the soup for a thicker, creamier texture. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip this step or only mash a little bit of the potatoes.

5. Add Cream Cheese and Sour Cream:

Cut the softened cream cheese into cubes and add it to the slow cooker, along with the sour cream.

Stir until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and the soup becomes creamy and smooth.

6. Add Cheese and Bacon:

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is well-combined.

If the soup is too thick, add a little milk to reach your desired consistency.

7. Final Seasoning:

Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or paprika, if desired.

8. Serve:

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and fresh chives.

Tips for the Best Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup:

• Potato Options: Russet potatoes are the best for this recipe because they break down and become creamy when cooked. You can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a richer texture.
• Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for the best texture and flavor. Cook the bacon until crispy and crumble it before adding it to the soup. You can also use pre-cooked bacon or turkey bacon if you prefer.
• Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened before adding it to the soup. This helps it blend smoothly into the soup for a creamy texture.
• Make Ahead: You can make this soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of milk or broth if necessary.
• Vegan Option: To make a vegan version, swap out the bacon for plant-based bacon, use dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream, and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth.

Health Benefits (and Indulgence!):

While Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is indulgent and comforting, it can still offer some nutritional benefits:

• Potatoes: Rich in potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, potatoes are a good source of energy and are heart-healthy when consumed in moderation.
• Cheese: Provides calcium and protein, which are essential for bone health and muscle repair.
• Bacon: Adds flavor and protein, but be mindful of the fat content. Using turkey bacon or reducing the amount can lower the calorie content.

Conclusion:

This Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves hearty, comforting meals that require minimal effort. The combination of creamy potatoes, tangy sour cream, crispy bacon, and melted cheese creates a rich and flavorful soup that everyone will rave about. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, potluck, or holiday gathering, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.

This is the kind of soup you can serve alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread to make a complete meal. Get ready for compliments because this soup will surely have your guests coming back for more!

Lovers of Comfort Food:

If you love rich, creamy soups packed with flavor, this Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup will quickly become a staple in your household. It’s ideal for a cozy winter evening, a hearty lunch, or as the star of a casual get-together. Serve it with a sprinkle of extra cheese, crispy bacon bits, and fresh chives, and watch as your family or guests fall in love with this easy, tasty dish. Enjoy!