Can I use frozen potatoes?

Absolutely! Frozen diced potatoes work great - just add about 30 extra minutes to the cook time. No need to thaw them first, either. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still be fantastic. I've even used frozen hash browns in a pinch when I forgot to grab fresh potatoes!

Is there a dairy-free option?

You bet! Swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk (the canned kind), use dairy-free sour cream, and pick your favorite vegan cheese. The soup won't be quite as rich, but the ranch and bacon flavors will still shine through. My lactose-intolerant niece swears by this version!

Help! My soup is too thick/thin!

No worries - easy fixes! Too thick? Stir in more broth or milk until it reaches your ideal consistency. Too thin? Mash some potatoes against the crockpot wall to thicken it naturally, or mix in a cornstarch slurry (1 Tbsp cornstarch + 2 Tbsp water). I usually check mine at hour 5 and adjust if needed.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Definitely! Skip the bacon (sob!) and use vegetable broth instead of chicken. For that smoky flavor, I sometimes add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or liquid smoke. You could even toss in some chopped mushrooms sautéed with soy sauce for umami richness.

Will this work in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Pressure cook on high for 10 minutes with quick release, then stir in the dairy as directed. The texture won't be exactly the same (those slow-cooked flavors develop differently), but it's still delicious for when you're short on time. I usually do this version when meal planning for busy weeks!

Creamy Crack Potato Soup Recipe - 6 Hour Slow Cooker Magic

Crack Potato Soup

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A creamy slow cooker potato soup with bacon and ranch flavor, perfect for cold nights and easy prep.

Author: Sophia Collins
Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 min
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Lactose

Ingredients

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6 cups diced potatoes
1 cup diced onions
1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1 packet ranch seasoning
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp black pepper

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Instructions

Add potatoes, onions, bacon, ranch seasoning, chicken broth, and garlic to the slow cooker.
Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
Stir in heavy cream, sour cream, and cheddar cheese.
Cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Serve hot with extra bacon and cheese on top.

Notes

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Top with green onions or extra ranch dressing for more flavor.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 420
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/creamy-crack-potato-soup-slow-cooker-recipe/