Introduction to Crack Potato Soup
If you're a busy professional juggling work, social life, and maybe a side hustle, finding the right meal that checks all your boxes can be a challenge. Enter Crack Potato Soup—your new go-to dish that’s not just comforting but also incredibly easy to prepare.
This delightful soup is perfect for young professionals because it’s made in a slow cooker, allowing you to set it and forget it while you tackle your daily tasks. Just imagine coming home to a warm, hearty bowl of creamy potato goodness after a long day at work! Packed with flavor from turkey bacon, tender potatoes, and a hint of ranch seasoning, it’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent without the guilt. Plus, it comes together with minimal prep, making it an excellent choice for those hectic weekdays.
Not only is Crack Potato Soup a meal that satisfies your cravings, but it also provides that much-needed comfort after a long day—perfect for unwinding or gathering with friends. For those interested in nutrition, feel free to check out more about the benefits of potatoes and other wholesome ingredients from reputable sources like Healthline or WebMD.
With this recipe, you'll find that it’s not just a meal but an experience to savor.
Ingredients for Crack Potato Soup
Creating the perfect Crack Potato Soup starts with the right ingredients! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this hearty delight that will surely be a hit at your next gathering.
- 3 lbs gold potatoes: Peeled and diced into ½ inch thick pieces. This will give your soup that creamy texture and comforting taste—about 7 cups.
- 8 oz. turkey bacon: Cooked, drained, and chopped finely. Turkey bacon provides a leaner option while maintaining delicious flavor.
- 1 leek: Diced (about 1 cup). Leeks add a sweet, onion-like flavor that elevates the soup.
- 1 oz. ranch seasoning packet: This is where the magic happens! It infuses your soup with a burst of flavor.
- 3 cups chicken broth: The base of the soup—opt for low-sodium to control the saltiness.
WAIT TO ADD:
- 1 cup heavy cream: For a rich and creamy finish.
- 8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese: Finely shredded from a block (avoid pre-shredded for better melting).
- Salt and pepper: To taste, rounding out all those beautiful flavors.
For Serving:
- Sliced green onion: Adds a fresh touch on top.
These ingredients come together wonderfully, so get your shopping list ready! You'll want to choose high-quality items for the best flavor; check out sources like Food52 for tips on selecting fresh produce. Happy cooking!
Step-by-step Preparation of Crack Potato Soup
Making Crack Potato Soup is not just about following a recipe; it’s about creating a warm, hearty dish that comforts and delights. Let me walk you through each step to make this delicious soup.
Gather your ingredients
The first step in crafting your savory Crack Potato Soup is gathering all your necessary ingredients. Here's what you'll need:
- 3 lbs gold potatoes, peeled and diced (about 7 cups)
- 8 oz. turkey bacon, cooked and chopped finely
- 1 leek, diced (about 1 cup)
- 1 oz. ranch seasoning packet
- 3 cups chicken broth
Hold off on adding these for now:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded from a block (not pre-shredded)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Lastly, don’t forget the garnishes! Having some sliced green onion for serving adds a nice finishing touch.
Prepare the potatoes and vegetables
It’s crucial to prep your produce correctly. Start by peeling and dicing the gold potatoes into ½ inch cubes to ensure they cook evenly and create a creamy texture when mashed later. For the leek, thoroughly clean it to remove any grit; then, dice it into small pieces. By taking these extra steps, you guarantee that every bite of your Crack Potato Soup will be satisfying and flavorful.
Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker
Now, it’s time to bring all your ingredients together! In a slow cooker, add the diced potatoes, turkey bacon, diced leeks, and ranch seasoning. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring everything is well mixed. Cooking on LOW for 7–8 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you that irresistible comfort in a bowl.
If you’re pressed for time or want to learn more about slow cooking, check out this helpful guide on slow cooker basics.
Mash and mix in the cream and cheese
Once your cooking time is up, grab a potato masher to gently mash half of the potatoes into the broth. This step thickens your soup while leaving chunks for texture. Now, introduce the heavy cream and slowly stir in the finely shredded cheddar cheese, which adds richness and depth to your dish. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper to match your taste preferences.
Let it cook and enjoy the aromas
Allow your Crack Potato Soup to cook for a bit longer after adding the cream and cheese—just enough to heat everything through. As it simmers, get ready to enjoy the amazing aromas wafting through your kitchen! It’s the perfect lead-up to a cozy meal with friends or family.
Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions for that pop of color and extra flavor. Your guests will be amazed by this scrumptious creation!
Variations of Crack Potato Soup
Creamy Vegan Crack Potato Soup
If you're looking for a plant-based twist on classic Crack Potato Soup, try a creamy vegan version! Simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor that won't sacrifice creaminess. Toss in some plant-based bacon or smoked tempeh for that smoky essence. This option keeps it rich and indulgent while being entirely vegan-friendly. For more vegan inspiration, check out this plant-based recipe resource.
Loaded Crack Potato Soup with Toppings
Want to take your Crack Potato Soup to the next level? Load it up with a variety of toppings! Consider adding crispy turkey bacon, dollops of sour cream, fresh chives, or even a sprinkle of crispy onions for added texture. A handful of jalapeños can introduce a spicy kick, while avocado adds creaminess. Experimenting with toppings not only enhances flavor but also makes for a beautiful presentation. This might just become your go-to comfort food! Want more ideas? Explore delicious toppings for soups here.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Crack Potato Soup
Using Alternative Seasonings for Flavor
Feel free to jazz up your Crack Potato Soup with alternative seasonings! Consider adding garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a sprinkle of cayenne for a little kick. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also add unique depth to the flavor profile. Remember, experimenting is a part of cooking fun!
Best Storage Practices for Leftover Soup
If you find yourself with leftovers, store your Crack Potato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This soup is best enjoyed fresh, so resist the urge to freeze; potatoes can get mushy after thawing. When you’re ready to reheat, do so gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed for consistency. For more tips on proper food storage, check out the USDA’s Food Safety guidelines.
Serving Suggestions for Crack Potato Soup
Pairing with Homemade Bread or Crackers
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Crack Potato Soup paired with freshly baked homemade bread or crunchy crackers. Consider whipping up a batch of fluffy bread rolls or a simple no-knead bread to soak up every creamy drop! Or grab your favorite store-bought crackers for an extra crunch with each bite.
Creative Toppings to Enhance the Soup
Elevate your Crack Potato Soup with a variety of toppings for an even more indulgent experience. Think crispy turkey bacon bits, a sprinkle of sharp cheddar, or a dollop of sour cream for tang. Add some fresh sliced green onions or chopped chives for a burst of color and flavor. Feeling adventurous? Try crispy fried onions for a delightful crunch! For more topping ideas, visit this link to explore various options.
Time Breakdown for Crack Potato Soup
Preparation time
You'll need about 15 minutes for prep work. This includes peeling and dicing the potatoes, as well as chopping the turkey bacon and leek.
Cooking time
The soup will cook in your slow cooker for 7 to 8 hours on the LOW setting. Perfect for a day at work!
Total time
In total, you’re looking at roughly 8 hours and 15 minutes from start to finish. A great way to enjoy a warming, hearty bowl of Crack Potato Soup after a long day!
Want to make this meal even easier? Check out expert tips on batch cooking and meal prep here. Plus, if you're curious about other delicious soup variations, explore more soup recipes for inspiration!
Nutritional Facts for Crack Potato Soup
Calories per Serving
If you’re cozying up to a warm bowl of Crack Potato Soup, you'll be pleased to know that each serving clocks in at around 651 calories. This makes it a satisfying yet indulgent meal option, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need that comfort food kick.
Breakdown of Key Nutrients
Let’s dive into what makes this creamy delight not just delicious, but also nourishing:
- Carbohydrates: 47g - A hearty source of energy, particularly from those gold potatoes.
- Protein: 20g - Thanks to the addition of turkey bacon and cheese, this dish helps keep you full.
- Fat: 43g - While a higher fat content is expected from creamy soups, it’s good fat mostly, including polyunsaturated and monounsaturated varieties.
- Fiber: 5g - The potatoes contribute to your daily fiber intake, aiding in digestive health.
Crack Potato Soup isn’t just a guilty pleasure; it also delivers essential nutrients, including Vitamin C, Calcium, and Iron, making it a delicious way to enjoy your daily nutrients. For more on balanced nutrition, check out ChooseMyPlate.gov for helpful tips.
FAQs about Crack Potato Soup
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Absolutely! If you're looking for a lighter option or a dairy-free alternative, consider using coconut milk or cashew cream. Both will provide a creamy texture without the heaviness of cream. You can also use whole milk or half-and-half if you want a reduced-fat option without sacrificing too much flavor.
How long does leftover soup last in the fridge?
Leftover Crack Potato Soup can last in the fridge for up to four days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, but remember not to boil it; that can affect the creaminess.
What are some good side dishes to serve with this soup?
Pair your delicious Crack Potato Soup with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a bowl of crispy veggies. For something more substantial, consider serving it alongside a hearty grilled cheese or even a light, protein-packed chicken salad. These pairings can round out your meal beautifully.
For more tips on cooking and meal pairings, check out resources like thekitchn.com for an array of ideas!
Conclusion on Crack Potato Soup
In summary, Crack Potato Soup is a deliciously comforting dish perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. So why not whip up a batch today and enjoy a warm bowl of comforting goodness?
Crack Potato Soup: Indulgent Comfort with Turkey Bacon and Chicken Ham
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 lbs gold potatoes, peeled and diced ½ inch thick (About 7 cups)
- 8 oz. bacon, cooked, drained and chopped finely
- 1 count leek, diced (about 1 cup diced)
- 1 oz. Ranch seasoning packet
- 3 cups chicken broth
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded from a block (not pre-shredded)
- salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- sliced green onion
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Add the potatoes, cooked bacon, leeks, and ranch seasoning mix to the slow cooker.
- Pour over the chicken broth. Stir.
- Place the lid on the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 7-8 hours.
- When the cooking time is up, take the potato masher and lightly mash the potatoes up into the broth (leaving about half of the potatoes whole).
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the finely shredded cheese slowly while stirring. Add salt and pepper to taste.
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