This Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is everything you want in a cozy dish! It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with tasty potatoes, cheese, and bacon. Perfect for chilly nights!
You’ll love how simple it is—just toss everything into the crock pot and let it do the magic. And honestly, who can say no to extra crispy bacon on top? 😋
I like to serve it with some warm bread on the side, making it a complete meal. It’s like a hug in a bowl, ready to chase away any cold day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: These small potatoes cook perfectly in the crock pot and add a great texture. If you can’t find baby potatoes, feel free to cut larger potatoes into smaller chunks for similar results.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a wonderful flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too! For a vegetarian dish, you can omit bacon altogether or use plant-based bacon.
Cream Cheese: This makes the soup creamy and rich. If you need a lighter version, consider using Neufchâtel cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese for those with dietary restrictions.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for its bold flavor. If you prefer a milder cheese, try Monterey Jack or even a mix of cheese for a twist.
Sour Cream: This adds tanginess. Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you want some extra protein, and it works just as well in soups!
How Do I Ensure My Potatoes Are Perfectly Tender?
Cooking time is crucial for getting tender potatoes. Since you’re using a crock pot, set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Remember, cooking it low and slow allows the flavors to develop better.
- Cut the potatoes into uniform sizes so they cook evenly.
- Check for tenderness by poking them with a fork—if it goes in easily, they’re ready!
- Adding the cream cheese and sour cream toward the end helps keep the texture smooth and creamy.
Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 5 cups baby potatoes (about 1.5 lbs)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious crock pot soup requires about 15 minutes of prep time and then you can let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It’s perfect for a busy day as you can set it up in the morning and come back to a warm, comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by placing the baby potatoes into the bottom of your crock pot. These will be the star of your soup!
2. Add the Flavor:
On top of the potatoes, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and half of the crumbled bacon. This adds a wonderful savory flavor right from the start.
3. Add Liquid and Seasonings:
Pour in the chicken broth, then evenly sprinkle the dried parsley and basil over the mixture. This is where the flavor begins to build!
4. Let it Cook:
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are soft and tender.
5. Make it Creamy:
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cubed cream cheese, sour cream, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Gently mix until the cream cheese is melted and everything is creamy.
6. Season to Taste:
Add salt and pepper as needed to get the flavor just right for you.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish the soup into bowls and top with the remaining cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and a sprinkle of fresh chives for a pop of color and flavor. Pair it with warm bread or crackers for a cozy meal!
This creamy, cheesy potato soup is perfect for chilly days and will warm you right up!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are great for their size and texture, you can use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes as well. Just make sure to cut them into evenly sized chunks for even cooking.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the bacon or substitute it with a plant-based bacon. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
