If you’re craving comfort in a bowl, this Crock Pot Potato Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s simple to prepare yet incredibly satisfying, blending tender shredded potatoes with creamy textures and rich, savory flavors. The slow cooker does all the work, melding ingredients into a silky soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Trust me, once you make this recipe, it will quickly become a go-to for busy days or casual gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a key role in delivering the perfect balance of flavor, creaminess, and heartiness in your Crock Pot Potato Soup Recipe.
- Frozen shredded hash browns: These provide the tender potato base that cooks evenly in the slow cooker.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and helps thin out the soup to just the right consistency.
- Unsalted cream of chicken soup: Brings richness and an extra layer of chicken flavor without overpowering.
- Dried minced onion flakes: Impart a subtle sweet and savory onion punch that blends perfectly when slow-cooked.
- Garlic powder: Offers just the right amount of warmth and mild garlic aroma.
- Cream cheese (cubed): Melts in at the end to create that irresistibly creamy and velvety texture.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to tweak the soup to your taste preference.
How to Make Crock Pot Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
Start by adding the frozen shredded hash browns, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, dried minced onion flakes, and garlic powder straight into your 6-quart slow cooker. This combination forms the flavorful backbone of the soup and ensures every bite is well-seasoned and comforting.
Step 2: Let It Slow Cook
Put the lid on and cook the mixture on LOW for 8 hours. This long, gentle cooking time is what breaks down the potatoes into a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture while allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting here, freeing you up to relax or prep other dishes.
Step 3: Add Cream Cheese and Final Stir
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to enjoy, toss in the cubed cream cheese. Stir it well, using a whisk if you like, until the cheese has fully melted and blended into the soup. This step is what transforms the dish into a luxuriously creamy delight that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
How to Serve Crock Pot Potato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your bowl of soup with fresh toppings like chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, or a dollop of sour cream. These garnishes add contrast in texture and flavor that makes every spoonful exciting.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, warm dinner rolls, or even a fresh green salad. The bread helps soak up the creamy goodness, while a salad can offer a refreshing bite alongside the rich soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in bread bowls or garnish with colorful paprika or chives for a pop of color. You could also offer a “topping bar” with various cheeses, bacon, and herbs so guests can customize their bowls to their liking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Crock Pot Potato Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before refrigerating to keep the flavors fresh.
Freezing
This soup freezes well, too. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or breaking. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up while warming.
FAQs
Can I substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth?
Absolutely! Using vegetable broth will make this soup suitable for vegetarians and still deliver plenty of savory flavor. Just make sure to choose a good-quality broth for best results.
Is it possible to make this soup without cream cheese?
You can omit the cream cheese, but it adds that signature creamy texture that makes this Crock Pot Potato Soup Recipe so special. For a dairy-free option, consider coconut milk or cashew cream as a substitute.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Definitely! Feel free to include extras like diced carrots, celery, or even corn for added flavor and texture. Just add them at the beginning so they have time to cook through.
How thick should the soup be when done?
The soup should be thick and creamy but still spoonable. If it feels too runny, cook uncovered for a bit longer to reduce it, or if too thick, add a little more broth to reach your desired consistency.
Can I prepare this soup in a regular pot instead of a slow cooker?
While the slow cooker really makes this recipe effortless, you can simmer the ingredients on low in a large pot for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are soft and flavors meld. Just add cream cheese at the end as directed.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a heartwarming, no-fuss meal to cozy up with, this Crock Pot Potato Soup Recipe is pure magic in a bowl. It’s easy to prep, full of comforting flavors, and the creamy finish invites you to savor every spoonful. I promise once you try it, it will quickly climb to the top of your favorite slow cooker recipes—perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you want a taste of home.
Print
Crock Pot Potato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This cozy Crock Pot Potato Soup is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for chilly days. Made with frozen shredded hash browns, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and seasoned with onion and garlic powder, it simmers all day in the slow cooker to develop rich flavors. Cream cheese added at the end transforms the soup into a velvety smooth delight that’s easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 (30 to 32-oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns
- 3 (14.5-oz) cans chicken broth
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup
- 2 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes
- ¾ tsp garlic powder (or to taste)
Finishing
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, cubed
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a 6-quart slow cooker, add the frozen shredded hash browns, chicken broth, unsalted cream of chicken soup, dried minced onion flakes, and garlic powder. Mix gently to combine all ingredients.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook the mixture on LOW heat setting for 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the potatoes to soften thoroughly.
- Add Cream Cheese: Approximately 15 minutes before serving, stir in the cubed cream cheese. Use a whisk to stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the soup, creating a creamy and smooth consistency.
- Season to Taste: Finally, season with salt and pepper according to your preference before serving.
Notes
- Using frozen shredded hash browns saves prep time without sacrificing texture.
- If a thicker soup is desired, cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce liquid.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and a cream of mushroom soup alternative.
- Cream cheese can be substituted with sour cream or heavy cream for a different flavor profile.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month.
