Creamy Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Soup

Welcome to a cozy corner of your kitchen where the aroma of simmering goodness fills the air – introducing the beloved Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup! This creamy delight is a true crowd-pleaser, striking the perfect harmony of cheesy goodness and savory bacon notes that make it a go-to comfort food for chilly nights. Picture tossing the ingredients into your slow cooker and simply waiting for the magic to happen until dinnertime rolls around.

I vividly remember the first time I whipped up this crack potato soup – it was an impromptu gathering at my place, and the pot was practically licked clean by the end of the evening. Since then, this recipe has made its way into the kitchens of friends and neighbors, each time garnering rave reviews and requests for seconds. The way the cheddar cheese melds with the potatoes, creating a gooey, irresistible texture, is a testament to the sheer delight this soup brings to the table.

Whether you’re planning a family feast or simply craving a bowl of warmth and goodness, this soup is your fail-proof option. From its crispy cheese crust to its customizable toppings, every spoonful of this crack potato soup is a journey into comfort and satisfaction. So, grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and let’s embark on a culinary adventure that promises to warm your heart and soul one delicious bite at a time.

Quick Benefits

• Comforting and Cozy: Perfect for chilly evenings, this creamy potato soup offers a comforting balance of cheesy flavors and smoky bacon.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with options to make it lighter by using reduced-fat cheese or half-and-half, or vegetarian by omitting the bacon.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A foolproof option for feeding a hungry family or entertaining guests, this soup is a hit at gatherings and potlucks.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Soup Recipe

• Rich and Cozy Flavor: This soup is the ultimate comfort food with a perfect balance of cheesy flavors and smoky bacon that will warm you up on chilly evenings.
• Easy to Make: Simply toss all the ingredients in the crockpot and let it simmer until dinner time, making it a convenient option for busy days.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this soup is sure to be a hit. It’s a recipe that everyone will keep coming back for seconds.
• Irresistible Cheesy Texture: The cheddar cheese melts into the potatoes, creating a gooey and delicious texture that is simply irresistible.
• Versatile Options: You can customize the recipe by using different seasonings, swapping ingredients like bacon for turkey bacon, or making it lighter with reduced-fat cheese or half-and-half.
• Great for Leftovers: The soup thickens as it sits, so you can enjoy it for up to four days. It’s a great make-ahead option for busy weeknights.
• Pairs Perfectly: This soup pairs well with a variety of sides, from a crisp green salad to a crusty bread or even a simple grilled cheese sandwich on the side.
• Endlessly Adaptable: You can add different ingredients like roasted garlic, sweet corn, or leafy greens to switch up the flavors and add a new twist to this classic recipe.
• Freezer-Friendly: You can freeze portions of this soup for later, just remember to add the dairy and garnishes after reheating for the best texture and flavor.
• Family Favorite: This crockpot potato soup is a beloved dish that has made appearances at family game nights, book club meetings, potlucks, and holiday gatherings, making it a versatile and reliable recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients for Creamy Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Soup

Base

• 6 cups russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth

Dairy

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Seasonings

• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Salt, to taste

Protein and Garnishes

• Chopped green onions or fresh chives, for garnish (optional)
• Additional shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish (optional)
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• Extra cooked bacon bits, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Creamy Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare Potatoes

Peel the potatoes and cut them into uniform 1/2-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Assemble Ingredients

Layer diced potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker. Sprinkle evenly with ranch seasoning mix, then top with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.

Step 3: Add Broth

Cover the ingredients with chicken or vegetable broth, making sure potatoes are completely covered.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Place lid on the crock pot and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 4 hours until potatoes are soft when pierced with a fork.

Step 5: Incorporate Cream

Add heavy cream and mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Season to Taste

Taste and adjust salt and pepper as necessary.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Spoon soup into bowls and top with additional cheese, bacon bits, green onions, or chives to taste.

Storage Tips

After cooking this delicious crock pot crack potato soup, you can store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The soup will thicken as it sits, so when reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave, you may want to add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up. This soup is perfect for meal prep or enjoying as a quick and comforting meal throughout the week.

If you would like to freeze the potato soup for later use, ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers before adding the dairy. Thaw the soup fully before reheating, then add the heavy cream and finish with your desired garnishes just before serving for the best texture and flavor. Freezing the soup without the dairy component will help maintain the quality of the dish when you’re ready to enjoy it from the freezer.

With its creamy texture, cheesy flavors, and smoky bacon, this crock pot crack potato soup is a crowd-pleaser that can easily be customized with different toppings and variations. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a cozy family dinner, or looking for a comforting meal on a chilly night, this soup is a versatile and delicious option that you can enjoy fresh or store for later consumption.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have russet or Yukon gold potatoes, you can use red potatoes as a substitute. Just make sure to peel and dice them evenly for consistent cooking.

For a vegetarian version of this soup, swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the bacon. To still achieve a smoky flavor, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika to the soup.

If you’re looking to lighten up the soup, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. This will result in a slightly lighter but still creamy texture.

When it comes to toppings, feel free to customize with extras like extra cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, or fresh chives for a professional touch. Remember to cool the soup completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and interactive serving idea, set up a “Soup Bar” for your guests. Provide bowls of additional shredded cheddar cheese, cooked bacon bits, chopped green onions, and fresh chives for them to customize their bowls of crock pot crack potato soup. It’s a great way to let everyone personalize their soup and make it extra special.

To elevate your soup experience, serve the crock pot crack potato soup in bread bowls. Simply hollow out a round loaf of crusty bread, ladle in the soup, and sprinkle some extra shredded cheddar cheese and bacon bits on top. This cozy presentation adds a delicious twist to the classic potato soup and makes for a hearty and satisfying meal.

FAQs for Creamy Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Soup

Can I use red potatoes instead of russet or Yukon gold in this soup?

Yes, red potatoes can be used as a substitute, but ensure they are peeled and diced evenly for consistent cooking.

What can I use as a vegetarian alternative to chicken broth and bacon in this recipe?

You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the bacon. To add a hint of smoky flavor, consider incorporating smoked paprika.

Can I make this soup lighter by using something other than heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can use half-and-half as a lighter alternative to heavy cream, resulting in a slightly lighter but still creamy soup.

What are some popular garnishes or toppings for this potato soup?

Popular toppings include extra shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and fresh chives, which provide a restaurant-style finish to the soup.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine. The rich, creamy texture combined with the savory flavors of cheese and bacon creates a soup that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re serving a crowd or simply craving a bowl of warmth on a cold day, this soup is sure to hit the spot.

Experiment with different variations and make this soup your own by adding seasonal ingredients or trying out alternative seasonings. Remember, cooking is all about having fun and making the recipes work for you. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and let the delicious aroma of Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup fill your home with warmth and love. Happy cooking!