If you’re craving something warm, creamy, and utterly irresistible, this Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup will steal your heart from the very first spoonful! This recipe combines tender potatoes, smoky bacon, and melty cheddar cheese in a rich, velvety broth that tastes like pure comfort in a bowl. It’s the kind of soup that makes you wish for a rainy day just so you can curl up with it.
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup
There’s something magical about a slow cooker meal that practically makes itself. This soup is not just delicious—it’s dangerously addictive (hence the “crack” nickname!). The combination of bacon, cheese, and creamy potatoes creates a texture that’s indulgent without being too heavy.
Here’s why you’ll want to make this recipe again and again:
Effortless comfort: Throw everything into the crock pot and let it do all the work.
Creamy and hearty: Perfectly thick and cheesy with melt-in-your-mouth potatoes.
Crowd-pleasing: Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or game nights.
Budget-friendly: Simple ingredients that stretch into a filling meal.
What Does Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup Taste Like?
Imagine the flavors of loaded baked potatoes—but in spoonable, creamy soup form! Each bite bursts with smoky bacon, rich cheddar cheese, and buttery potato goodness. The garlic and onion add depth, while the paprika gives a subtle warmth. The best part? Every bowl is finished with crisp green onions for a fresh pop that balances the richness beautifully.
Benefits of Making Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup
Set it and forget it: Minimal prep, maximum flavor.
Family-friendly: Even picky eaters love it!
Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to fit your taste (or what’s in your fridge).
Meal prep dream: It reheats perfectly for easy lunches or dinners later in the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
4–5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika (optional but adds lovely color and warmth)
2–3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Tools You’ll Need
Crock pot or slow cooker (6-quart recommended)
Cutting board and knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or ladle for stirring
Serving bowls (and maybe a crusty loaf of bread on the side!)
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
This recipe is incredibly flexible!
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter version.
Add veggies: Corn, carrots, or celery blend in beautifully.
Use different cheese: Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack for extra kick.
Turkey bacon or chicken sausage work great for a leaner option.
Make it gluten-free: Just ensure your broth and cheese are certified gluten-free.
How to Make Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup
Step 1: Load the Crock Pot
Add diced potatoes, crumbled bacon, onion, garlic, and chicken broth to your slow cooker. Give everything a quick stir to mix.
Step 2: Let It Cook
Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender and fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Creamy Magic
Stir in heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well and let it cook for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese melts and the soup becomes thick, rich, and creamy.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls, then top with fresh green onions and, if you’re feeling indulgent, extra bacon crumbles or a sprinkle of cheddar.
What to Serve With Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup
This soup is satisfying on its own, but a few sides make it a full feast:
Buttery dinner rolls or crusty French bread
A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette
Grilled cheese sandwiches for the ultimate comfort combo
Roasted veggies for a balanced meal
For another crave-worthy comfort food idea, check out my Maple Bacon Cheeseburger Bomb Quesadillas—they pair perfectly with this soup on a cozy night in!
Tips for the Best Crack Potato Soup
Use fresh potatoes for the best texture; frozen ones can get mushy.
Cook your bacon crisp so it stays flavorful and doesn’t get soggy.
Don’t skip the cheese—it’s what makes the soup “crack” good!
Thicken it up: Mash some potatoes in the pot before adding the cream for a thicker consistency.
Add heat: Sprinkle in a little cayenne or hot sauce for a spicy twist.
Storage Instructions
Let the soup cool completely, then store in airtight containers:
Refrigerator: Up to 4 days
Freezer: Up to 2 months (thaw in the fridge before reheating)
Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream or broth if it thickens too much.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! It reheats beautifully, so feel free to make it the day before and store it in the fridge.
Can I use hash browns instead of diced potatoes?
Yes! Frozen shredded or diced hash browns work perfectly for a time-saving shortcut.
How do I make it vegetarian?
Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add smoked paprika for a hint of smoky flavor.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! Just make sure your slow cooker can handle the volume, or use two smaller ones.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
Calories: 420
Protein: 16g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
(Values may vary based on ingredients and serving size.)
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is everything you want in a comfort meal—creamy, cheesy, smoky, and completely satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that makes family dinners feel extra special and cozy weekends even cozier.
If you enjoyed this recipe, you’ll also love my sweet and fun Funnel Cake Bites – Just Like the Fair!