This creamy and cheesy Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Loaded with potatoes, bacon, and plenty of cheese, it’s super satisfying.
Making this soup is a breeze! Just toss everything in your slow cooker, let it simmer, and enjoy the cozy aroma filling your kitchen. It’s perfect for chilly nights! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the best for this soup due to their creaminess when cooked. However, you can substitute with Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a slightly different texture.
Chicken Broth: You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. Homemade or store-bought work well, depending on what you have on hand.
Sour Cream & Cream Cheese: If you’re looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for either sour cream or cream cheese. It gives creaminess while adding some protein!
Cheddar Cheese: While cheddar is classic, you can try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a fun twist. Just keep in mind that flavors will differ slightly.
Bacon: For a vegetarian version, consider using smoked paprika or mushrooms to replicate the bacon’s umami flavor. You could also use turkey bacon if you want a lighter option.
How Do You Get That Perfectly Creamy Texture?
The creaminess of the soup is key to its appeal. To achieve this, blend some of the cooked potatoes directly in the crock pot using an immersion blender. This will create a thick base for your soup.
- Cook the potatoes and onions thoroughly in the broth as directed.
- Before adding in sour cream and cheeses, blend about half the soup. This creates a creamy texture while leaving some chunks for heartiness.
- Add cheese gradually while stirring to ensure it melts smoothly without clumping. The key is to add it off heat or at the end to prevent it from becoming grainy.
By blending and adding cheese correctly, your soup will be velvety and delicious. Enjoy your cooking adventure! 🥣
Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 20 minutes to prepare and then needs to cook for 6-7 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH in the crock pot. Plus, it’s best served right after a final stir, so it’s ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Start by peeling and dicing the large potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Chop your onion finely. This will help the flavors blend nicely as the soup cooks.
2. Assemble in the Crock Pot:
Put your diced potatoes and chopped onion into the crock pot. Next, pour in the chicken broth, making sure the potatoes are mostly submerged. This will help them cook through evenly.
3. Season the Soup:
Add in the garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir so all the ingredients are well combined before cooking.
4. Cook It Up:
Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on LOW for 6-7 hours, or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
5. Add the Creaminess:
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cream cheese cubes, sour cream, 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon. Mix well until the cream cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your soup! Depending on your taste buds, you might want to add more salt, pepper, or even a bit more cheese.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese, extra bacon crumbles, and a sprinkle of chopped chives or green onions. Dive into your delicious Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup!
This hearty soup is incredibly comforting and delicious, making it perfect for any cozy meal at home. Enjoy every spoonful! 🥣
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes for This Soup?
Yes, frozen potatoes can be used, but they may contain more moisture, which could affect the soup’s consistency. If you do use frozen potatoes, consider reducing the amount of chicken broth to prevent the soup from becoming too watery.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture. If it thickens, you can add a little more broth or milk to reach your desired consistency!
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Absolutely! To make a vegan version, simply substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth, use dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream alternatives, and skip the bacon or replace it with crispy vegan bacon. This will keep all the comforting flavors intact!
What Can I Serve with This Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping or a fresh side salad for a lighter meal. You might also enjoy it with a sprinkle of additional chives or fresh herbs on top for an added flavor punch!
