There’s nothing quite like coming home to the smell of Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup simmering away. Rich, cheesy, and packed with hearty potatoes, this recipe is the ultimate slow-cooker comfort meal. Made with simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a family favorite that’s both indulgent and effortless.
What Is Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup?
“Crack” potato soup gets its name from its irresistible combination of bacon, cheese, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning flavors so addictive that you’ll want to make it on repeat. Slow cooking allows all the ingredients to blend together beautifully, creating a silky, thick soup with every bite loaded with cheesy goodness.
It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary day into a cozy dinner night. For more hearty inspiration, try pairing it with our Air Fryer Frozen Biscuits or Cheez-It Chicken Breasts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 6 cups diced potatoes (fresh or frozen hash browns)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup chopped green onions, for garnish
These simple ingredients transform into a luscious, cheesy soup that’s perfect for slow Sundays or busy weeknights.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
Add diced potatoes, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, ranch dressing mix, and a pinch of salt and pepper into your slow cooker. Stir everything together.
Step 2: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded.
Step 3: Add the Cheese and Cream Cheese
Once the potatoes are soft, stir in the cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Mix until fully melted and the soup becomes creamy and smooth.
Step 4: Add Bacon and Garnish
Stir in half of the crumbled bacon, reserving the rest for topping.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra bacon, cheese, and green onions. Serve with bread or our Comfort Food Recipes Collection for the perfect cozy meal.
Tips, Variations & Why You’ll Love It
- Make it lighter: Use low-fat cream cheese or reduced-fat cheddar.
- Vegetarian version: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth.
- Add-ins: Corn, carrots, or diced ham for extra flavor.
- Storage: Keeps up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat over low heat; don’t boil.
- Freezer tip: Cool completely, freeze in portions, and reheat slowly for best texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen hash browns instead of fresh potatoes?
Yes! It’s a great time-saver and works perfectly in this recipe.
Can I make this on the stove instead of a slow cooker?
Absolutely simmer on low for 30–40 minutes until potatoes are tender, then add cheese and cream cheese.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar gives the richest flavor, but Monterey Jack or Colby work well too.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes, just combine everything (except dairy) the night before, store it in the fridge, and start it in the morning.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is the definition of slow-cooked comfort. With creamy potatoes, melted cheese, and smoky bacon, it’s pure cozy indulgence in every spoonful.