Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup

Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food that practically makes itself. This creamy, loaded potato soup combines tender potatoes, melty cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and ranch seasoning for a flavor-packed bowl that tastes like a warm hug on a chilly day.

I first made this soup on a chaotic Tuesday when I had back-to-back meetings and hungry kids waiting at home. I threw everything in the crock pot that morning, and by dinnertime, my kitchen smelled like heaven. The best part? No standing over a hot stove or constant stirring required. This crack potato soup earned its name because one bowl is never enough. The combo of creamy broth, cheesy goodness, and smoky bacon hits all the right notes, making it a family favorite that I now make at least twice a month during fall and winter.

What You’ll Need for This Creamy Potato Soup

I always recommend using russet potatoes for this crock pot crack potato soup because they break down beautifully and create that signature creamy texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 6 cups diced potatoes, peeled (about 4-5 medium russets)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (I prefer sharp cheddar for bolder flavor)
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 4-6 strips)
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (1 ounce)
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium works best)
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnishes: extra cheese, bacon bits, chopped green onions, or chives

Pro tip: Cook your bacon in the oven at 400°F for 15-18 minutes for perfectly crispy, hands-off results. Save a few extra pieces for topping!

How to Make This Easy Slow Cooker Soup

I recommend prepping your ingredients the night before to make morning assembly even faster. This method ensures your crock pot crack potato soup turns out perfectly creamy every time.

Step 1: Peel and dice the potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes for even cooking. Smaller pieces cook faster, while larger chunks give you more texture.

Step 2: Layer the diced potatoes in the bottom of your crock pot. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning evenly over the potatoes, then add the shredded cheese and crumbled bacon on top.

Step 3: Pour the broth over the layered ingredients slowly, making sure the liquid covers everything by at least 1 inch. If needed, add an extra 1/2 cup of broth.

Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4 hours. The potatoes should be fork-tender and easily mash against the side of the crock pot with a spoon.

Step 5: Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue cooking for 10-15 more minutes. For a smoother crack potato soup, use an immersion blender to blend about half the soup, or pulse 3-4 times to break up some potatoes while leaving plenty of chunks for texture.

Step 6: Let the soup rest for 5-10 minutes to thicken slightly, then ladle into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes.

Perfect Pairings for Your Potato Soup

This hearty soup deserves equally delicious sides that complement its rich, creamy flavor.

Crusty French Bread: The crispy exterior and soft interior are perfect for soaking up every last drop of this crack potato soup. Warm it up and slather with butter for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Simple Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness and adds a refreshing crunch to balance the creamy soup.

Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Because soup and sandwiches are a match made in heaven. The melty cheese and toasted bread pair beautifully with the loaded flavors in this crock pot potato soup.

Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts add color, nutrition, and a slightly sweet contrast to the savory, bacon-filled soup.

More Hearty Soups to Complete Your Comfort Food Menu

This creamy crack potato soup pairs beautifully with other warming soups that deliver the same cozy satisfaction. For a lighter but equally flavorful option, try our Creamy Pioneer Woman Potato Soup made with simple pantry ingredients, or explore the smoky, rich flavors of our Outback Potato Soup Classic loaded with bacon and cheddar cheese.

When you’re looking for variety beyond potato-based soups, consider serving this alongside our protein-packed Chickpea Potato Soup with aromatic spices, the convenient Crockpot Potato Soup with Frozen Potatoes for busy weeknights, our comforting Cheesy Crockpot Potato Soup with Ham perfect for using leftover holiday ham, or the Italian-inspired Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup with tender pillowy dumplings. For a complete meal, pair with our hearty Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole.

Keeping Your Soup Fresh and Delicious

Store leftover crock pot crack potato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I recommend portioning it into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup has thickened too much. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Pro tip: This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months, though cream-based soups may separate slightly when thawed. Simply whisk vigorously or blend briefly after reheating to restore the smooth texture. I find it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Your Crock Pot Soup Questions Answered

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