Begin by peeling and dicing your potatoes into uniform 1-inch pieces, ensuring even cooking. This process should take about 10 minutes.

In your crock pot, layer the prepared potatoes evenly at the bottom. Next, sprinkle in the ranch seasoning mix, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.

Carefully pour enough chicken or vegetable broth over the layered ingredients until everything is just submerged.

Cover the crock pot and set to low for 7 to 8 hours, or high for about 4 hours.

Once the cooking time is complete, remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half, creating that signature creaminess.

Ladle the warm, creamy Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup into bowls and garnish with additional cheese, crumbled bacon bits, or chopped green onions.