Crockpot Bacon Ranch Potato Soup

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Crockpot Bacon Ranch Potato Soup:

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Fresh chives or green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prep Ingredients: Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small cubes. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces.
2. Add Ingredients to the Crockpot:
   • Place the diced potatoes, onion, and garlic in the crockpot.
   • Add the ranch seasoning mix, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
   • Stir everything together.
3. Cook the Soup:
   • Cover and cook on low for about 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Mash the Potatoes (Optional):
   • Once the potatoes are cooked, you can use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes in the soup to thicken it slightly, leaving some chunks for texture.
5. Add Dairy:
   • Stir in the milk, heavy cream, sour cream (optional), and crumbled bacon. Continue cooking for another 30 minutes on low until everything is heated through.
6. Add Cheese:
   • Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
7. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra bacon, shredded cheddar, chives, or green onions.

Enjoy your creamy and comforting Crockpot Bacon Ranch Potato Soup!