Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup

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Description
This Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is a creamy, cheesy, and bacon-filled delight. With the flavors of a loaded baked potato, this soup combines tender potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning for an irresistible bowl of comfort. It’s the perfect soup for cold days or when you’re craving something cozy and indulgent.

Origin
This soup is inspired by the flavors of loaded baked potatoes, often referred to as “crack” due to the addictively delicious combination of cheese, bacon, and ranch. It’s a modern take on potato soup, commonly found in family-friendly recipes, especially for potlucks and cozy gatherings.

Ingredients with Quantities

  • 6 medium-sized russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (1 oz)
  • 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (plus more for topping)
  • 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 6 slices)
  • ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: Sour cream (for serving)

Optional Ingredients

  • 1 cup frozen corn (for added texture and flavor)
  • ½ cup milk (for a lighter version)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for added flavor depth)
  • ½ cup frozen peas (for extra color and nutrition)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the ingredients:
    Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes and onion. Cut the cream cheese into cubes to help it melt evenly.
  2. Add ingredients to the crockpot:
    Place the diced potatoes, onion, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning mix into the crockpot. Stir to combine.
  3. Cook the soup:
    Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
  4. Add the cream cheese and bacon:
    About 30 minutes before serving, add the cubed cream cheese and crumbled cooked bacon to the crockpot. Stir well to combine and allow the cream cheese to melt into the soup.
  5. Finish the soup:
    Once the cream cheese has melted, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve and garnish:
    Ladle the soup into bowls and top with additional shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions. For extra creaminess, add a dollop of sour cream.

Tips for Success

  • If you want a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes with a potato masher before adding the cream cheese and cheese to create a creamier texture.
  • For a smooth consistency, use an immersion blender or blend the soup in batches in a regular blender after cooking the potatoes and onions.
  • Adjust the ranch seasoning to your liking—some people prefer more, while others prefer less. Add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika for a different flavor twist.

Recommendations
This soup pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad, garlic bread, or crusty rolls. You can also serve it with extra toppings like sour cream, more crispy bacon, or extra cheese. For a more filling meal, add a side of grilled chicken or a simple sandwich.

Nutrition per serving (based on 6 servings, approximate)
Calories: 380
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 12g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 950mg

Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and loaded potato goodness, this soup will become a family favorite in no time!

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