Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup 🥔🧀

Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup : when the weather turns cold, nothing warms the soul like a bowl of delicious soup. Few meals can bring comfort quite like a creamy potato soup, especially one cooked slowly in a crock pot. This Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is an incredible dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings. It combines fluffy potatoes, rich creaminess, and the smoky flavor of bacon, topped with melted cheddar cheese. You might just find that this soup becomes a staple in your home!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

There are many reasons to adore this Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup. First, it’s so simple to make! Just chop your ingredients and let the crock pot do all the hard work. This means you can spend more time relaxing and less time in the kitchen.

Also, the flavor is unbeatable. The combination of potatoes, bacon, and cheese creates a taste that is rich and satisfying. Each spoonful feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. You can also customize it to your family’s liking by adding your favorite toppings or extra spices.

Furthermore, this soup is perfect for meal prep. You can enjoy it for lunch throughout the week or serve it at gatherings where everyone gathers around the table. It is sure to be a hit with friends and family!

How to Prepare Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup

Ingredients:

To make this delightful soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 6 medium-sized russet potatoes
• 1 medium onion
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 cup of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 4 cups of chicken broth
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions or chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process to make this incredible soup.

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Start by washing and peeling the russet potatoes. Then, cut them into small, even cubes. This helps them cook evenly and ensures they are tender.
2. Chop the Onion and Garlic: Next, peel and chop the onion into small pieces. Mince the garlic cloves to release their flavor.
3. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Once done, let it cool slightly and crumble it into small pieces. Save a little for garnishing the soup later!
4. Combine in the Crock Pot: Add the chopped potatoes, onion, minced garlic, and crumbled bacon into your crock pot. Pour the chicken broth over these ingredients.
5. Set and Forget: Cover the crock pot, and set it on low for about 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more flavors will meld together.
6. Blend or Mash (optional): When the soup is done cooking, you can either use an immersion blender to create a smooth texture or simply mash the potatoes with a potato masher for a chunkier soup.
7. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Allow it to cook on low for another 30 minutes until the cheese melts and everything is combined well.
8. Season to Taste: Finally, season your soup with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

How to Serve Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup

Serving this soup is just as delightful as making it. Here are a few ideas:

• Garnish: Top each bowl with extra crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
• Pair with Bread: This soup goes wonderfully with crusty bread or soft rolls. Consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or buttery biscuits for an extra treat.
• Meal Ideas: It makes for a great lunch, dinner, or even party dish. You can serve it in small bowls for a hearty appetizer or in larger bowls for a full meal.

How to Store Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup

If you have leftovers (which is rare with this tasty soup!), storing it is simple:

• Refrigerate: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it into an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
• Freeze: You can also freeze the soup. Just pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and it can last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips for Preparing Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup

1. Choose the Right Potatoes: While russet potatoes are great for this recipe because they become fluffy when cooked, feel free to experiment with Yukon Gold or red potatoes for different textures.
2. Make it Healthier: To reduce the calories, consider using turkey bacon or a mix of regular and turkey bacon. You can also opt for low-fat cheese and cream.
3. Adjust Seasoning: Always taste the soup before serving! Add more salt, pepper, or other spices as per your taste.
4. Add Vegetables: For a more nutritious soup, consider adding carrots, celery, or even some greens like spinach or kale.

Variation

Here are some variations you can try to keep things interesting:

1. Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to give the soup some heat.
2. Loaded Potato Soup: Boost the flavors by adding sour cream and more variety of cheese as toppings.
3. Vegan Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Replace bacon with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?
   Yes! Frozen potatoes can work, but they might alter the texture a bit. Fresh potatoes are recommended for the best flavor and texture.
2. Can I leave the peeled potatoes in water before cooking?
   It’s best to avoid this for too long to prevent them from turning brown. If necessary, place them in a bowl of water for a short time until you’re ready to use them.
3. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
   Yes! You can use whole milk, but keep in mind that the soup may not be as rich and creamy compared to using heavy cream.

In conclusion, making Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is an easy and rewarding experience, and it results in a bowl of comfort that you and your loved ones can savor. With its simple ingredients and fabulous flavor, you’ll likely find yourself making it over and over again. Enjoy the warmth and joy that comes from this delicious soup!