Nothing says comfort quite like a bowl of warm, creamy potato soup simmering all day in the crock pot. This Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is the kind of recipe that makes your kitchen smell cozy and inviting, like a hug in food form. With tender potatoes, rich cheese, and just the right amount of seasoning, this is the perfect one-pot dinner for busy weeknights or chilly weekends.
The best part? It’s dump-and-go easy—just add your ingredients, set the crock pot, and let it work its magic while you go about your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash brown potatoes
- 1 (32 oz) carton chicken broth
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
- ½ cup cooked turkey bacon or chicken bacon crumbles (optional for topping)
- Fresh green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Add base ingredients – In your crock pot, add the hash browns, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir to combine.
- Set and cook – Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and everything is heated through.
- Add cheeses – About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and the soup becomes creamy.
- Taste and adjust – Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed (a little extra salt, pepper, or garlic powder if you like).
- Serve and garnish – Ladle into bowls and top with turkey bacon crumbles and sliced green onions. Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Cream cheese tip: Cut cream cheese into small cubes so it melts evenly.
- Thickness: If you want a thicker soup, stir in 1–2 tablespoons of instant mashed potato flakes.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Freezing: Not recommended (dairy can separate), but you can freeze before adding the cheeses and stir them in after reheating.
Recipe Variations
- Protein boost – Add cooked shredded chicken or turkey sausage to make it heartier.
- Lighter option – Use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheddar, or swap part of the cheese for Greek yogurt.
- Spice it up – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili powder, or a few dashes of hot sauce for extra warmth.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with warm buttery dinner rolls or garlic breadsticks.
- Add a crisp garden salad with light vinaigrette for balance.
- Garnish with extra cheese, fresh parsley, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for color.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is the definition of cozy, family-friendly comfort food. It’s easy, satisfying, and the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again when you need something warm and filling. Gather your loved ones, ladle it up, and enjoy a simple but unforgettable meal.