Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is a warm and comforting dish that’s super easy to make! With creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese, it’s sure to be a hit!
This soup is perfect for busy days. Just toss everything into the Crock Pot and let it do the work. I love serving it with a sprinkle of green onions on top—so tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: For the best texture, I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. They get creamy when cooked. If you’re watching carbs, you might swap in cauliflower florets for a lighter version!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a wonderful crunch! If you prefer a vegetarian option, use cooked mushrooms or crispy chickpeas instead for a similar texture.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar really brings a great flavor to this dish. If you want something milder, use Monterey Jack or a cheese blend. Vegan cheese can also work if you’re dairy-free!
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds depth, but vegetable broth is a great substitute if you’re keeping it vegetarian or vegan. You can also use homemade broth for richer flavor.
How Do I Get Creamy Soup Without Overcooking the Potatoes?
Getting the right creaminess without mushy potatoes is key! Start by dicing your potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Cook them on low for the recommended time. Adding cream cheese halfway through keeps it creamy and avoids breaking down the potatoes completely.
- Peel and dice potatoes into 1-inch pieces.
- Cook on low for 6–7 hours for the best soft texture without falling apart.
- Add cream cheese about 30 minutes before serving to melt smoothly.
Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 5–6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into chunks
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (plus some for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and can be cooked in the Crock Pot for 6–7 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high. Just let the Crock Pot do the magic while you enjoy your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Vegetables:
Start by peeling and dicing your potatoes into bite-sized pieces and chopping the onion. Add them directly into the Crock Pot.
2. Combine Ingredients:
Pour 4 cups of chicken broth over the potatoes and onion in the Crock Pot. Then, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently stir everything so the broth covers the veggies.
3. Start Cooking:
Cover the Crock Pot with the lid. Set it 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 Creamy Goodness:
About 30 minutes before serving, add the chunks of softened cream cheese. Stir it into the soup until it starts to melt. This gives the soup its rich, creamy texture!
5. Stir in Final Ingredients:
Now, mix in the sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon. Stir until everything is well combined, and the cheese has melted into the soup.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your soup a taste! Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve It Up:
Dish out the soup hot into bowls. Garnish with extra cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, and fresh parsley or chives if you like.
8. Enjoy!
This creamy, cheesy, and savory soup is perfect for any cozy meal. You can also serve it with saltine crackers on the side for some delightful crunch!
Enjoy every warm, delicious spoonful!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes, you can! Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes work best because they create a creamy texture. However, you could also use red potatoes, but they may hold their shape a bit more and offer a firmer texture.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a little more broth if needed to thin it out.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use Greek yogurt or additional sour cream for a lighter option. Just be sure to add it towards the end of cooking to prevent curdling.
How Can I Thicken the Soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes with a potato masher after they have cooked, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water) during the last 30 minutes while cooking.
