Man, that dish was a total flavor bomb! Not a crumb left by the end of dinner.

Slow cooker crack potato soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly Midwestern nights. This dish combines the rich creaminess of potatoes with the irresistible flavors of cheese, bacon, and ranch seasoning. It's a favorite for busy parents because it's easy to prepare and can simmer all day, filling the house with a mouthwatering aroma. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or a friendly get-together, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some warm, crusty bread to soak up every last bit of the delicious broth. You might also consider serving it in a bread bowl for an extra cozy touch. For something a bit lighter, some freshly steamed broccoli or a fruit salad can balance out the richness of the soup perfectly.

Servings: 8

6 large potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cups chicken broth
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet ranch dressing mix
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional garnishes: chopped chives, additional shredded cheese, extra bacon bits

In a slow cooker, combine the diced potatoes, chopped onion, chicken broth, minced garlic, and ranch dressing mix.

Cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the potatoes are tender.

Once the potatoes are cooked, use a potato masher or immersion blender to gently mash some of the potatoes to thicken the soup, leaving some chunks for texture.

Add the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and milk. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the soup is creamy.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cook on low for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is well-combined and heated through.

Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives, additional shredded cheese, and extra bacon bits if desired.

For a lighter version, you can substitute the cream cheese with half-and-half or evaporated milk. If your family prefers a bit of spice, try adding a chopped jalapeno or a dash of hot sauce. Picky eaters? You can blend the soup until smooth if texture is a concern. For added vegetables, toss in some chopped carrots or celery when you add the potatoes.