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This Crockpot Crack Potato Soup is one of those easy meals you’ll want to make on repeat. It’s warm, rich, and full of flavor thanks to shredded hash browns, ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and lots of cheddar. It’s great for family dinners, especially on cold nights when all you want is something comforting in your favorite bowl.
Ingredients
- 30 oz frozen shredded hash browns
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (plus salt to taste)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 12 slices beef bacon, cooked and chopped (divided)
- 8 oz cream cheese, diced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
Step by step
- Fill the slow cooker: Add hash browns, cream of chicken soup, pepper, ranch mix, chicken broth, and 8 slices worth of chopped beef bacon to a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours.
- Add cheese: About 1 hour before serving, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar and all the cream cheese. Cover and let the cheese melt.
- Stir and serve: Mix well to combine. Serve hot and top with the rest of the beef bacon and cheese. Add any extra toppings you like.
Equipment Needed
- 6-quart slow cooker
- Whisk (if thickening)
Slow Cooker I Use
Hamilton Beach Portable 6 Quart Set Forget Digital Programmable Slow Cooker with Lid Lock, Temperature Probe, Dishwasher Safe Crock & Lid, Black Stainles
Recipe Variations
- Add Chicken: Place 2 boneless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Shred before serving.
- Add Ham: Dice and add at the beginning.
- Use Diced Potatoes: Frozen diced potatoes also work well.
- Use Fresh Potatoes: Peel and dice about 3 lbs. Blend the soup slightly before serving for a creamy texture.
- Try Other Soups: Cream of celery or mushroom work in a pinch.
How to Thicken Potato Soup
If your soup is too thin, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water. Stir it into the soup, turn the crockpot to high, and cook uncovered for 15 to 30 minutes until thick. Stir before serving.
Tips and Serving Suggestions
- Shred your own cheese for a creamier texture.
- Crockpot liners make cleanup a breeze.
- Add green onions, sour cream, or crackers for extra flavor.
- Want more protein? Stir in cooked chicken or ham.
- Serve with a turkey or bacon sandwich for a filling meal.
What to Serve with It
This soup is already delicious, but you can top it with:
- More cheddar cheese
- Extra bacon
- Green onions
- Sour cream
- Crackers (saltine or oyster)
It also goes great with a sandwich or a light salad.
FAQs
How do I store leftovers?
Put leftover soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. It gets thicker in the fridge, so add a splash of broth when reheating.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, you can. The cheese might separate a little but just stir it well when reheating and it’ll come back together.
Nutrition Info
Each serving has about 594 calories, 32g carbs, 20g protein, and 44g fat. It’s filling and full of flavor.
Disclaimer: Nutrition info is estimated and may vary based on the ingredients you use.
Let us know if you try this recipe! We’d love to hear what you think.

