Introduction:
Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is a rich and creamy soup that’s incredibly easy to make in your slow cooker. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a chilly day or a cozy weeknight meal. This soup is loaded with potatoes, cheese, and savory turkey bacon, creating a truly irresistible combination.
Imagine coming home to the warm, inviting aroma of this delicious soup simmering in your crock pot. It’s a hands-off recipe that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor and satisfaction. The slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully, resulting in a soup that’s both hearty and deeply flavorful.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup recipe is foolproof and sure to become a family favorite. Its creamy texture, savory flavor, and simple preparation make it an ideal choice for any occasion. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort in a bowl with this amazing potato soup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
You’ll absolutely adore this Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup because it’s incredibly convenient and undeniably delicious. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing you to set it and forget it, freeing up your time for other tasks. This makes it perfect for busy weekdays or relaxed weekends.
The taste of this soup is simply addictive, hence the name “Crack Potato Soup.” The creamy base, combined with tender potatoes, savory cheese, and smoky turkey bacon, creates a flavor explosion in every spoonful. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that will warm you from the inside out.
Moreover, this recipe is highly customizable. You can easily adjust the amount of cheese, turkey bacon, or seasonings to suit your personal preferences. It’s also a great base recipe to which you can add other vegetables or toppings to create your own signature version. This soup is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone who tries it.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
To prepare this delectable Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup, you will need a selection of simple, wholesome ingredients. These components work together to create the creamy texture and irresistible flavor that make this soup so special. Let’s explore each ingredient and its role in the recipe.
The foundation of this soup is potatoes. Russet potatoes are highly recommended for their starchy content, which contributes to the soup’s creamy texture. You’ll need to peel and cube the potatoes before adding them to the slow cooker.
For the savory element, you will use turkey bacon. Turkey bacon provides a smoky and salty flavor that perfectly complements the creamy potatoes and cheese. You will cook and crumble the turkey bacon before adding some to the soup and reserving some for topping.
Cream cheese is essential for achieving the signature creaminess of this soup. It melts into the soup during slow cooking, creating a rich and velvety texture. Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best flavor and consistency.
Chicken broth serves as the liquid base for the soup. It adds depth of flavor and helps to cook the potatoes to tender perfection. Low-sodium chicken broth is preferred to control the salt level in the final dish.
Cheddar cheese contributes to the cheesy goodness of the soup. Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully into the soup, adding a sharp and savory flavor. You can use mild, medium, or sharp cheddar depending on your preference.
For aromatics and flavor enhancers, you will need yellow onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Diced yellow onion adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor to the soup. Garlic powder provides a convenient way to infuse garlic flavor throughout the soup. Salt and black pepper are essential seasonings to balance the flavors and enhance the overall taste.
Finally, for garnishing, you can use shredded cheddar cheese and chopped fresh parsley or green onions. These toppings add visual appeal and extra bursts of flavor and texture when serving the soup. Sour cream is also a popular topping for added richness and tanginess.
HOW TO MAKE “Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup”:
Making Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is an incredibly easy process, perfect for busy cooks. It involves just a few straightforward steps that primarily rely on the convenience of your slow cooker. Let’s outline the method to ensure your success in creating this comforting and flavorful soup.
First, prepare your ingredients. This includes peeling and cubing the potatoes, dicing the onion, and cooking the turkey bacon. Having these steps done beforehand makes the assembly process in the slow cooker quick and efficient.
Next, combine the ingredients in the slow cooker. Add the cubed potatoes, diced onion, cream cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to your slow cooker. These ingredients will cook together slowly, melding their flavors and creating the creamy base of the soup.
Cook on low heat. Set your slow cooker to low heat and cook for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. The long cooking time is what allows the potatoes to become perfectly soft and the flavors to fully develop.
Once the potatoes are tender, it’s time to finish the soup. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup to achieve a creamy texture. Alternatively, you can carefully ladle some of the soup into a regular blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the slow cooker. Be cautious when blending hot soup.
Stir in the cheese and turkey bacon. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled turkey bacon to the soup, reserving some for topping. Stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated, creating a cheesy and savory finish.
Finally, serve and garnish. Ladle the Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup into bowls. Garnish each serving with shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled turkey bacon, and fresh parsley or green onions. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious, comforting flavors of your homemade potato soup.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
Let’s walk through a detailed, step-by-step guide to preparing your Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup. Following these instructions closely will lead you to a culinary success, creating a creamy and flavorful potato soup with ease in your slow cooker.
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Bacon.
Begin by cooking the turkey bacon. You can cook it in a skillet over medium heat or bake it in the oven until crispy. Once cooked, remove the turkey bacon from the skillet or oven and place it on paper towels to drain excess grease. After it has cooled slightly, crumble the turkey bacon into small pieces. Set aside for later use, reserving some for garnishing the soup.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes and Onion.
Peel 5 pounds of russet potatoes. After peeling, cut the potatoes into ½-inch cubes. Dicing them into uniform pieces ensures even cooking in the slow cooker. Dice one medium yellow onion. Having the vegetables prepped and ready streamlines the process of assembling the soup in the slow cooker.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker.
In a 6-quart or larger slow cooker, combine the cubed potatoes, diced onion, 8 ounces of cream cheese (cut into cubes for easier melting), 4 cups of chicken broth, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed in the slow cooker for consistent cooking.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Soup.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are very tender and easily pierced with a fork. The long cooking time allows the potatoes to become incredibly soft and the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and harmonious soup base.
Step 5: Blend the Soup (Partially).
Once the potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup directly in the slow cooker. Blend until the soup reaches your desired consistency – some chunks of potato are fine for a heartier texture, or blend more for a smoother soup. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully ladle portions of the hot soup into a regular blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the slow cooker. Exercise caution when blending hot liquids to avoid splattering.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Turkey Bacon.
Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and most of the crumbled turkey bacon (reserve some for garnish) into the blended soup. Continue stirring until the cheddar cheese is completely melted and fully incorporated into the soup, creating a cheesy and savory finish.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish.
Ladle the Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup into bowls. Garnish each serving generously with the reserved shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled turkey bacon. For an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or green onions. You can also offer sour cream or a dollop of plain yogurt as an optional topping. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your creamy and comforting potato soup.
USEFUL TIPS:
To ensure your Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is consistently delicious, consider these helpful tips. These suggestions cover various aspects of the recipe, from ingredient selection to cooking techniques, designed to enhance your soup-making experience.
For an even creamier soup, consider using Yukon Gold potatoes in addition to or instead of russet potatoes. Yukon Gold potatoes have a naturally buttery and creamy texture that will further enhance the soup’s richness. Their smoother texture blends beautifully into the soup.
To add more flavor depth, sauté the diced onion in a skillet with a little butter or olive oil before adding it to the slow cooker. Sautéing the onion caramelizes its natural sugars, bringing out a sweeter and more complex flavor that will enrich the soup base.
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a slurry of cornstarch or flour towards the end of the cooking process. Mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch or all-purpose flour with an equal amount of cold water to create a slurry, then whisk it into the soup and cook for another 15-20 minutes until thickened.
For a richer, more decadent flavor, you can substitute some of the chicken broth with heavy cream or half-and-half. Adding cream or half-and-half towards the end of cooking will enhance the soup’s creaminess and add a luxurious mouthfeel. Start with ½ to 1 cup and adjust to your preference.
Don’t overcook the soup once the cheese is added. Once you’ve stirred in the cheddar cheese and turkey bacon, cook just until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated. Overcooking at this stage can cause the cheese to become stringy or separate.
If you want to add more vegetables, consider incorporating diced celery, carrots, or bell peppers into the soup. These vegetables can be added along with the onion in the slow cooker to enhance the soup’s flavor and nutritional value. Sautéing them before adding to the slow cooker can further enhance their flavor.
For a spicier soup, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the slow cooker along with the other seasonings. You can also include a diced jalapeño pepper (seeds removed for less heat) for a spicy kick. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste preference.
If you don’t have cream cheese, you can substitute it with Neufchâtel cheese for a slightly lighter option, or use an equal amount of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt stirred in at the very end after turning off the slow cooker for a tangier flavor. Note that sour cream and yogurt should not be boiled as they may curdle.
DETAILS:
Let’s explore the specific details of this Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup recipe. Understanding these details will help you plan your cooking process and appreciate the elements that make this dish so comforting and delicious.
Prep Time: Approximately 20 minutes. This includes the time needed to cook and crumble the turkey bacon, peel and cube the potatoes, dice the onion, and cube the cream cheese. Efficient preparation makes the slow cooking process even more convenient.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low heat in the slow cooker. The long cooking time is essential for the potatoes to become tender and for the flavors to meld together beautifully. Cooking on low heat ensures gentle and even cooking, resulting in a creamy and flavorful soup.
Total Time: Approximately 6 hours 20 minutes to 8 hours 20 minutes. This is the sum of prep time and slow cooking time, providing a clear picture of the total time investment for making this recipe from start to finish. It’s primarily hands-off cooking, making it perfect for busy days.
Yield: 6-8 servings. This recipe is designed to comfortably serve 6 to 8 people as a hearty main course. Serving sizes can be adjusted based on individual appetites and any accompanying side dishes. It’s great for family meals or small gatherings.
Category: Soup, Main Course, Comfort Food. Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup falls into the category of soups and is substantial enough to be a main course. It is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for cold weather or whenever you need a warm, satisfying meal.
Method: Slow Cooking. The primary cooking method for this recipe is slow cooking in a crock pot or slow cooker. Slow cooking is ideal for this soup as it tenderizes the potatoes and allows the flavors to deepen and meld over time with minimal effort.
Cuisine: American. Potato soup is a classic American comfort food, and this Crock Pot version is a modern take on a beloved favorite. It incorporates common American flavors and is designed for easy home cooking.
Diet: Not specified. This recipe, as written, is not specifically tailored to any particular diet. However, it can be modified to suit certain dietary preferences. For a lower-fat version, you could use reduced-fat cream cheese and turkey bacon, although this may slightly alter the richness and flavor.
NOTES:
Consider these additional notes for making your Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup even more personalized and successful. These insights provide flexibility and address potential variations and considerations for different preferences and situations.
For a vegetarian version of this soup, simply omit the turkey bacon. To maintain the smoky flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the spice blend or using smoked cheddar cheese. Vegetarian versions of cream cheese and broth should also be used to ensure it remains fully vegetarian.
If you want to make this soup ahead of time, you can prepare it completely, including blending and adding cheese and turkey bacon. Allow it to cool slightly, then store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the slow cooker before serving.
For a smoother, completely creamy texture, blend the entire soup until completely smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender. If using a regular blender, blend in batches and exercise caution with hot liquids. A completely smooth soup is preferred by some for a more refined texture.
To add a touch of acidity and brightness, stir in a tablespoon or two of sour cream or cream cheese right before serving. This will add a tangy note that balances the richness of the soup and enhances the overall flavor profile. Freshly squeezed lemon juice can also be used for a similar effect.
If you find the soup is too thick after cooking, you can easily thin it out by adding more chicken broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency. Add liquid gradually and stir well until the soup is uniformly thinned.
For a more pronounced garlic flavor, use fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder. Sauté 2-3 cloves of minced garlic with the onion before adding them to the slow cooker. Fresh garlic will impart a stronger and more robust garlic flavor to the soup.
To enhance the cheesy flavor, you can use a blend of different cheeses. Try combining cheddar with Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack cheese for a more complex and flavorful cheese profile. A cheese blend can add depth and richness to the soup.
If you want to add a smoky element without using turkey bacon, you can add a few drops of liquid smoke to the soup during the last hour of cooking. Liquid smoke imparts a smoky flavor that can mimic the taste of bacon. Use it sparingly as it is quite potent.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Let’s address some frequently asked questions about making Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup. These answers are designed to provide clarity and solutions to common queries, ensuring a smooth and successful cooking experience.
Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese, or is it better to shred my own?
A: It’s always better to shred your own cheese for this soup. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose to prevent clumping, which can hinder melting and result in a slightly grainy texture in the soup. Freshly shredded cheese melts much smoother and contributes to a creamier soup.
Q: Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
A: Yes, you can easily double this recipe to serve a larger crowd. Ensure you use a larger slow cooker (at least 8 quarts or larger) to accommodate the increased volume of ingredients. Cooking time may remain the same, but always check for potato tenderness to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Q: What if my soup is too salty? How can I fix it?
A: If your soup is too salty, you can try a few methods to reduce the saltiness. Add a peeled potato (cut into large pieces) to the soup and simmer for another 30 minutes; the potato will absorb some of the excess salt. You can also add a tablespoon of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar to balance the salty flavor. In extreme cases, you might need to dilute the soup with more chicken broth, but this will also dilute the overall flavor, so season accordingly afterwards.
Q: Can I add milk after the soup is cooked to make it even creamier?
A: Yes, you can add milk after the soup is cooked to adjust the creaminess to your preference. Warm the milk slightly before adding it to prevent cooling down the soup too much. Stir in warmed milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency. You can use whole milk, 2% milk, or even half-and-half for added richness.
Q: Is it necessary to blend the soup, or can I leave it chunky?
A: Blending the soup is recommended for achieving the signature creamy texture of Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup, but it is not strictly necessary. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip the blending step. The soup will still be flavorful, just with a different, more rustic texture.
Q: Can I use frozen potatoes to save prep time?
A: Using frozen potatoes is not recommended for this recipe. Frozen potatoes often contain added water and may not hold their shape as well during slow cooking, potentially resulting in a mushier texture in the soup. Freshly peeled and cubed potatoes are best for achieving the desired creamy texture and flavor.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality and flavor of your leftover Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup. Follow these instructions to ensure your soup remains delicious and safe to eat even after being stored.
Refrigeration: Allow the Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup to cool completely to room temperature after cooking. Once cooled, transfer the soup to airtight containers. Store the containers in the refrigerator. Properly refrigerated potato soup will last for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat leftover Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup, you can use either the stovetop or the microwave. For stovetop reheating, pour the soup into a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For microwave reheating, place a portion of the soup in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Ensure the soup is heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving. You may need to add a splash of broth or milk when reheating to restore the creamy consistency, as potato soup can thicken upon refrigeration.
Freezing: For longer storage, Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup can be frozen. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Leave some headspace in the containers as liquids expand when frozen. Seal tightly and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating thoroughly using either the stovetop or microwave method described above. Note that the texture of potato soup can sometimes change slightly after freezing and thawing, potentially becoming slightly grainier, but it will still be delicious and safe to eat.
RELATED RECIPES
If you enjoyed the creamy, comforting goodness of Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup, you’ll surely appreciate these other related soup recipes. These dishes offer similar textures, flavors, or cooking methods, perfect for soup enthusiasts looking for variety in their meal options.
Creamy Chicken and Potato Soup: For a heartier soup with added protein, try Creamy Chicken and Potato Soup. This recipe combines chicken, potatoes, and a creamy base, offering a satisfying and complete meal. It’s a great way to add more protein and create a more substantial soup.
Loaded Baked Potato Soup: If you love loaded baked potatoes, you’ll adore Loaded Baked Potato Soup. This soup captures all the flavors of a loaded baked potato, including potatoes, cheese, turkey bacon, sour cream, and green onions, in a creamy soup form. It’s incredibly rich and flavorful, perfect for a decadent meal.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Crock Pot Version): For another creamy slow cooker favorite, try Crock Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup. This soup combines broccoli, cheddar cheese, and a creamy base, creating a classic and comforting soup that’s easy to make in the slow cooker. It’s a great way to incorporate vegetables into a creamy soup.
Corn Chowder (Creamy Corn and Potato Chowder): Explore a variation with corn and potatoes in Creamy Corn and Potato Chowder. This chowder combines sweet corn, potatoes, and a creamy base, offering a sweet and savory soup that’s both comforting and flavorful. It’s a delightful twist on traditional potato soup.
Cheesy Cauliflower Soup (Low Carb Option): For a lower-carb and vegetable-forward option, try Cheesy Cauliflower Soup. This soup uses cauliflower in place of potatoes for a creamy, cheesy soup that’s lighter yet still satisfying and flavorful. It’s a great alternative for those watching their carbohydrate intake.
CONCLUSION
Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is more than just a soup recipe; it’s an invitation to experience pure comfort and culinary ease in your own kitchen. With its simple preparation and deeply satisfying flavors, this dish is perfect for anyone seeking a hassle-free yet delicious meal. The creamy texture, cheesy richness, and savory turkey bacon combine to create an unforgettable soup experience.
This recipe provides a clear and detailed guide, ensuring that even novice cooks can confidently create a pot of creamy and flavorful potato soup using the convenience of a slow cooker. From the minimal prep work to the hands-off slow cooking, each step is designed for simplicity and maximum enjoyment. Imagine coming home to the delightful aroma of this soup simmering away, ready to be served and enjoyed by family and friends.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner, a cozy meal on a cold day, or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is a recipe that will quickly become a cherished favorite. It’s versatile, incredibly delicious, and remarkably easy to make – embodying all the qualities of perfect comfort food. So, gather your ingredients, dust off your slow cooker, and embark on the delightful journey of making your own Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup. You’re just moments away from creating a truly wonderful and comforting culinary experience that will warm hearts and delight taste buds with every spoonful.
