Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup

Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is a creamy, hearty, and flavorful soup that combines tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and melty cheese for the ultimate comfort food. The slow-cooked combination of ingredients creates a rich, velvety texture, making it a perfect meal for chilly days or when you’re craving a satisfying bowl of warmth.

Ingredients

• 6 cups diced potatoes
• 1/4 cup diced onion
• 1/4 cup bacon bits
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/4 cup flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Directions

1. In a crock pot, combine potatoes, onion, bacon bits, and garlic.
2. Sprinkle flour over the potato mixture and stir to coat.
3. Pour in chicken broth and stir well.
4. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until potatoes are tender.
5. Use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes to thicken the soup.
6. Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese until cheese is melted.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon bits and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the soup for a little heat.
• Additional Veggies: Stir in some chopped carrots or celery for added texture and flavor.
• Toppings: Top with sour cream, extra shredded cheese, or crumbled bacon for added richness.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the soup has thickened too much.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?
   Frozen potatoes can be used, but fresh diced potatoes provide the best texture for this soup.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   You can substitute the cheddar cheese with other melting cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a blend of cheeses for variety.
4. How do I thicken the soup more if it’s too thin?
   You can mash more potatoes or add a bit more flour and let it cook longer to thicken. Alternatively, you can mix a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch and water) and stir it into the soup.
5. Can I make this soup with milk instead of heavy cream?
   Yes, milk can be used as a lighter alternative to heavy cream, but the soup won’t be as rich and creamy.
6. Can I use bacon slices instead of bacon bits?
   Yes, you can cook and crumble bacon slices to use in place of bacon bits for added flavor.
7. Can I use an Instant Pot instead of a crock pot?
   Yes, you can use the sauté function to cook the onions and garlic, then add the remaining ingredients and cook on the soup setting for about 15 minutes.
8. Is this soup gluten-free?
   The recipe contains flour, which is not gluten-free. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour substitute.
9. Can I freeze this soup?
   Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
10. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
    Yes, vegetable broth is a great alternative for a vegetarian version of the soup.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors, making it a satisfying dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a hearty soup to serve to a crowd, this recipe is sure to impress. With its easy preparation and slow-cooked goodness, it’s a meal that everyone will enjoy.

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