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### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Ingredients**
Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small, bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. Set everything aside, ready to be added to the crock pot.
2. **Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot**
Add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, crumbled bacon, chicken broth, heavy cream, and ranch seasoning mix into the crock pot. Stir to combine everything evenly.
3. **Slow Cook the Soup**
Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it on low heat for about 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The potatoes should become tender, and the flavors will meld together to create a creamy base.
4. **Blend the Soup (Optional)**
Once the potatoes are soft, you have the option to blend the soup for a smoother texture. You can use an immersion blender directly in the crock pot, or transfer a portion of the soup to a regular blender (just be careful not to burn yourself). If you prefer a chunkier texture, skip this step.
5. **Add the Cream Cheese and Cheese**
Once the soup is cooked and you’ve achieved your desired consistency, add the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese to the crock pot. Stir well until both cheeses are melted and the soup becomes thick and creamy.
6. **Season and Serve**
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with additional shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and fresh chives or green onions for an extra burst of flavor.
### Tips and Variations:
– **Vegetarian Version:** To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add more cheese and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
– **Thicker Soup:** For an extra creamy texture, you can mash some of the potatoes in the soup or add a tablespoon of flour mixed with water at the beginning of cooking to help thicken the soup.
– **Add-ins:** Get creative with your toppings! Sour cream, jalapeños, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing are great additions for an extra layer of flavor.
– **Freezing:** This soup freezes well! Make a big batch and store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat on the stove and add a little more cream or broth to get the right consistency.
### Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
– **Hands-Off Cooking:** With the crock pot doing all the work, this soup is perfect for busy days. Just throw everything in and let it simmer to perfection while you relax.
– **Perfectly Creamy:** The combination of cream cheese, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese creates a rich, creamy texture that’s guaranteed to please.
– **Flavor Explosion:** The addition of bacon, ranch seasoning, and cheese infuses the soup with tons of savory goodness, making each spoonful a burst of flavor.
– **Family Favorite:** This soup is incredibly family-friendly and can easily be adapted to suit different tastes. Kids and adults alike will love it!
### Conclusion:
Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food that you’ll want to make again and again. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and easy prep, it’s the perfect dish to enjoy on a chilly evening or serve at your next family gathering. The slow cooker makes it a hassle-free meal, and the delicious results speak for themselves. Once you try this soup, you’ll understand why it’s a fan favorite—and maybe even add it to your regular dinner rotation. Enjoy!
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