Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy soup on a cold day. Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup combines rich flavors with hearty potatoes, making it a favorite among families. This dish stands out not only for its delicious taste, but also for its ease of preparation. Utilizing your crock pot means less stress in the kitchen and more time to spend with your loved ones.

Whether you’re looking for a fulfilling meal after a long day or planning for a cozy gathering with friends, this Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is sure to please. Filled with ingredients that meld together beautifully, this recipe not only satisfies the tummy but also warms the heart.

What Makes Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup Special?

This Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup offers a unique blend of flavors and textures. The term “crack” typically refers to foods that are hard to resist, and this recipe is no exception. Let’s look at what makes this dish a hit:

• Creamy Texture: The combination of heavy cream and cream cheese creates a velvety base that binds the ingredients together beautifully.
• Hearty Ingredients: Loaded with potatoes, bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions, each bowl is packed with flavor.
• Easy Preparation: Using a crock pot allows for a hands-off approach. Set it and forget it, ensuring perfectly cooked ingredients every time.
• Flexibility: The recipe allows for variations, making it easy to adapt to your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.

To ensure you get the most out of this recipe, let’s dive deeper into the ingredients and methods used in this delicious dish.

Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup

A creamy and hearty potato soup made in a crock pot, perfect for warming you up on cold days.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 hours hrs

Total Time 6 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Course Main Course, Soup

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main ingredients

• 4 cups diced Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes Cut into small cubes for even cooking.
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon Cooked until crispy.
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Add more for topping if desired.
• 8 oz cream cheese Helps to achieve a creamy texture.
• 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
• 4 cups chicken broth Needed to cover the ingredients.
• 1 bunch green onions, chopped Adds a fresh flavor.

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder Adjust to taste.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder Adjust to taste.
• to taste salt Adjust according to preference.
• to taste pepper Adjust according to preference.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Chop the potatoes into small cubes (about 1-inch).
• In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving some fat in the pan.
• In the same skillet, sauté diced onions in the bacon fat until translucent.

Cooking

• Place the diced potatoes in the bottom of your crock pot.
• Layer the cooked bacon and sautéed onions on top of the potatoes.
• Pour in the chicken broth until the ingredients are just covered.
• Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
• Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until potatoes are tender.

Creaminess

• Use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, leaving some chunks for texture.
• Stir in cream cheese and heavy cream until fully incorporated.

Final Touches

• Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
• Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, and additional cheese if desired.

Notes

For variations, try adding sour cream for a loaded baked potato twist, or use jalapeños for a spicy version. Keep fresh herbs over dried for best flavor.

Keyword comfort food, creamy soup, Crock Pot Recipe, Easy Dinner, Potato Soup

The Ingredients You’ll Need

Understanding the components of your dish can elevate your cooking game. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup:

Potatoes

• Type: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are preferred for their creamy texture.
• Benefits: Potatoes are rich in vitamins B6 and C, potassium, and fiber. They provide a solid base for the soup while also contributing to its heartiness.

Bacon

• Type: Thick-cut bacon adds a smoky flavor.
• Benefits: While bacon is indulgent, it also contains protein and essential nutrients like potassium and magnesium.

Cheddar Cheese

• Type: Sharp cheddar cheese adds depth of flavor.
• Benefits: Cheese is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and protein, making it a great addition to recipes.

Cream Cheese

• Benefits: Cream cheese helps to achieve that luscious, creamy texture. It’s also a source of fat, providing richness to the soup.

Heavy Cream

• Type: You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version.
• Benefits: Heavy cream is high in calories, but it contributes to the luxurious mouthfeel that makes this soup special.

Chicken Broth

• Benefits: Broth adds depth of flavor. Chicken broth is hydrating and contains minerals that are good for your health.

Green Onions

• Benefits: These add a fresh, crisp flavor and are also a source of antioxidants.

Seasonings

A few basic seasonings—salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder—can make a huge difference in flavor. Consider herbs like thyme or rosemary for a twist.

Step-by-Step Method: Making Your Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup.

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

1. Chop the Potatoes: Cut the potatoes into small cubes (about 1-inch). This ensures they cook evenly and thoroughly.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving some fat in the pan for added flavor.
3. Sauté Onions: In the same skillet, sauté diced onions in the bacon fat until translucent.

Step 2: Load the Crock Pot

1. Layer the Ingredients: Place the diced potatoes in the bottom of your crock pot.
2. Add Bacon and Onions: Layer the cooked bacon and sautéed onions on top of the potatoes.
3. Pour in Broth: Pour in the chicken broth until the ingredients are just covered.
4. Season: Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Let It Cook

1. Set Your Crock Pot: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or high for 3-4 hours, until potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Add Creaminess

1. Blend for Super Creamy Soup: For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, leaving some chunks for texture.
2. Stir in Dairy: Add cream cheese and heavy cream, stirring until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. Add Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
2. Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, and additional cheese, if desired.

Tips and Pro Advice

• Bacon Alternatives: If you prefer turkey bacon or a vegetarian option, substitute accordingly. Note that this can change the flavor profile.
• Thickening Trick: If your soup is too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the soup to thicken.
• Keep It Fresh: For the best flavor, use fresh herbs over dried. However, dried herbs can also work well in a pinch.

Variations of Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup

Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Add toppings like sour cream, additional cheeses, or chives for a loaded baked potato version of your soup.

Spicy Crack Potato Soup

Incorporate jalapeños or chili powder for a bit of heat, or top with diced avocado for a spicy twist.

Vegan Option

Replace bacon with smoked tempeh, use plant-based cream cheese and heavy cream. Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a delicious vegan option.

Storage and Reheating

1. Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
2. Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Ensure you leave room in the container, as liquids expand during freezing.
3. Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or milk as needed to maintain creaminess.

Nutritional Insights

While Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is undeniably indulgent, taking a closer look at its nutritional benefits can be enlightening.

• Calories: Depending on the portion and the amount of cream and cheese, this soup can range from 300-500 calories per bowl.
• Carbohydrates: Potatoes are high in carbohydrates, providing a good source of energy.
• Protein: Bacon and cheese contribute to the protein content.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Potatoes provide potassium and vitamin C, while cheese and cream contribute calcium and fat-soluble vitamins.

FAQs about Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup

Is it necessary to peel the potatoes? You can peel the potatoes or leave the skins on, depending on your preference. Leaving the skins adds extra fiber.

Can I make this soup dairy-free? Yes! Use coconut cream, almond milk, and nutritional yeast for cheese flavor. Opt for plant-based cream cheese and broth.

What can I serve with this soup? Serve with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or a side of garlic bread.

How can I spice up my soup? Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce while cooking, or sprinkle in smoked paprika for an added flavor kick.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is more than just a comfort food; it’s a delightful culinary experience that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table. Whether enjoyed on cold winter days or as a hearty dinner option, this recipe is bound to impress family and friends alike.

So dust off your crock pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious bowl of comfort. Remember to share the joy of cooking and invite others to experience the magic of Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup!

Ultimately, the Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is a recipe that brings people together. Enjoy experimenting with variations to make it your own, and savor each comforting spoonful! Happy cooking!