Step 1: Prep the Potatoes and Veggies
Peel the potatoes and cut them into bite-sized cubes. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Set these aside.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot
Add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic into the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, whole milk, and heavy cream. Stir in the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover the crock pot and cook on high for 4-5 hours, or low for 6-7 hours, until the potatoes are tender and easily mashable with a fork.
Step 4: Add Cream Cheese
Once the potatoes are soft, carefully remove about 1 cup of the cooked potato chunks and set aside. Using an immersion blender, blend the remaining soup in the crock pot until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer 3-4 cups of the soup to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and then pour back into the crock pot.
Step 5: Stir in Cream Cheese and Cheddar Cheese
Cut the cream cheese into small cubes and add it to the soup, stirring until melted and smooth. Then, add in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until fully combined.
Step 6: Finish and Taste
Stir in the reserved potato chunks (for added texture), followed by the cooked bacon bits. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, black pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls, and top with extra shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and sliced green onions. Optionally, drizzle with sour cream or a dollop of green onion dip for added richness and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is perfect as a satisfying meal on its own or served alongside a crusty bread, salad, or steamed vegetables. It’s rich, creamy, and filling enough to be enjoyed as a complete dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- So Creamy and Rich: The combination of potatoes, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese makes every spoonful creamy, velvety, and indulgent.
- Slow-Cooked Comfort: Cooking everything slowly allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich, flavorful broth.
- Easy Prep: Simply throw everything into the crock pot and let it do the work while you go about your day!
- A Crowd Favorite: With its irresistible mix of cheesy, savory, and slightly smoky flavors, this soup is sure to please both family and guests.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The soup can also be frozen for up to 1 month. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
This Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is comfort in a bowl—creamy, cheesy, and perfectly satisfying. It’s the kind of soup that will make you feel cozy and full after just one taste!