There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of creamy potato soup to bring comfort on a chilly day. This crock pot potato soup recipe is not only incredibly easy to make but also packed with rich flavors and a velvety texture. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to serve guests, this soup delivers in every way.
One of the best things about using a crock pot is the ability to set it and forget it. With minimal prep, you can let the slow cooker do all the work while you go about your day. The combination of frozen hash brown potatoes, cheddar cheese, and cream of chicken soup creates a deliciously thick and hearty soup that’s both satisfying and effortless to prepare. If you’re a fan of slow-cooked meals, you’ll love exploring more options on slow cooker recipes.
Potatoes have been a staple ingredient in soups for centuries, offering both nutrition and versatility. According to Wikipedia’s page on potatoes, they are a great source of fiber, potassium, and vitamin C, making this dish not just tasty but also nourishing. With the right mix of ingredients and seasonings, you can create a restaurant-quality soup right in your own kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless potato soup recipes out there, but this crock pot version stands out for its simplicity and rich flavor. Whether you’re new to using a slow cooker or a seasoned pro, you’ll appreciate how effortless this dish is to make.
1. It’s Incredibly Easy to Make
This recipe requires minimal prep—just toss the ingredients into your crock pot, set the timer, and let it do the work. No need to spend hours in the kitchen chopping potatoes or stirring a pot. Using frozen hash browns saves time while still delivering the same hearty texture as fresh potatoes.
2. Creamy and Comforting Texture
The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar cheese creates a luxuriously smooth and cheesy base. Unlike thinner broths, this soup has a rich, velvety consistency that’s perfect for dipping crusty bread or crackers. If you’re a fan of thick soups, you might enjoy browsing other comfort food recipes.
3. It’s a Versatile Dish
- You can customize it with extra toppings like crispy bacon, green onions, or shredded cheese.
- It pairs perfectly with grilled cheese sandwiches or a side salad.
- It can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free cream of chicken soup.
Ingredients Breakdown
The beauty of this crock pot potato soup lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of creaminess, richness, and seasoning. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this soup so delicious.
1. Frozen Hash Brown Potatoes
Using frozen hash browns instead of fresh potatoes cuts down on prep time without sacrificing texture. They cook evenly in the slow cooker, absorbing all the creamy goodness of the broth and cheese. If you’re curious about the history and versatility of potatoes, check out this Wikipedia article on potatoes.
2. Chicken Broth
A good-quality chicken broth serves as the base of the soup, adding depth and umami flavor. You can use homemade broth, store-bought, or even swap it for vegetable broth if making a vegetarian version.
3. Cream of Chicken Soup
This ingredient contributes to the soup’s thick and velvety consistency. It also enhances the savory flavor. If you prefer a homemade version, you can make a simple cream soup substitute with butter, flour, and milk.
4. Cream Cheese & Sour Cream
- Cream cheese adds a smooth, tangy richness that blends perfectly with the other ingredients.
- Sour cream enhances the creaminess and adds a slight tang, balancing out the flavors.
5. Shredded Cheddar Cheese
A generous amount of cheddar cheese melts into the soup, creating a thick, cheesy base. For best results, use a sharp cheddar, as it provides the most flavor. Not all cheeses melt the same way, so check out this Wikipedia article on cheddar cheese to learn more.
6. Seasonings: Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, and Black Pepper
These simple spices enhance the overall taste of the soup. Garlic powder and onion powder add depth, while salt and black pepper bring balance.
7. Turkey Bacon
Instead of traditional bacon, this recipe uses turkey bacon for a leaner option. It adds a smoky, salty crunch that complements the creamy soup. If you’re curious about different types of bacon, take a look at this Wikipedia guide on bacon.
8. Green Onions (For Garnish)
Adding chopped green onions just before serving gives the soup a fresh, slightly sharp contrast to the rich, cheesy base.
This carefully selected combination of ingredients ensures that each spoonful is bursting with flavor. Ready to move on to the step-by-step cooking instructions? 😊
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making this crock pot potato soup is as simple as adding the ingredients and letting the slow cooker do the work. Follow these easy steps for a perfectly creamy, hearty soup.
Step 1: Add Ingredients to the Crock Pot
Start by placing the following ingredients into your slow cooker:
- Frozen hash brown potatoes
- Chicken broth
- Cream of chicken soup
- Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper
Give everything a good stir to combine. This ensures that the seasonings are evenly distributed and the potatoes are fully coated with the broth and soup mixture.
Step 2: Slow Cook Until Tender
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are soft and tender.
- If you prefer a chunky texture, leave the soup as is. For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup directly in the slow cooker.
While the soup is cooking, you might want to explore more one-pot meal ideas for easy weeknight dinners. Check out this Pinterest board on one-pot meals for inspiration.
Step 3: Stir in Dairy & Cheese
Once the potatoes are soft, add:
- Cream cheese (softened and cut into cubes)
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
Stir everything together until the cheeses melt and blend into a rich, creamy base. If you want to learn more about different types of soups, this Wikipedia article on soup is a great resource.
Step 4: Add Bacon & Final Touches
- Stir in the cooked and crumbled turkey bacon for extra flavor.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mix in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water) and cook for another 10-15 minutes.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with:
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions
- A dollop of sour cream
Serve hot with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comforting meal.
Tips for the Best Creamy Potato Soup
Even though this crock pot potato soup is already easy to make, a few extra tricks can take it from good to absolutely amazing.
1. Use Full-Fat Dairy for Extra Creaminess
If you want the richest and creamiest texture, stick with full-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar cheese. Low-fat versions can make the soup less flavorful and creamy.
2. Prevent Curdling When Adding Dairy
To avoid lumps or separation:
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before adding it.
- Stir in the dairy ingredients at the end of cooking, when the heat is lower.
- If reheating leftovers, do so on low heat to maintain smooth consistency.
3. Adjusting Thickness
If the soup is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or milk. If it’s too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the soup. Let it cook for an additional 15 minutes to thicken.
4. Best Cheese for Melting
For the creamiest results, use freshly shredded cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that can make the soup grainy. If you’re curious about cheese varieties, check out this Wikipedia article on cheddar cheese.
5. Make It Ahead for Better Flavor
Like many slow-cooked dishes, potato soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store it in the fridge and reheat it gently for the best taste.
Customization & Variations
One of the best things about this crock pot potato soup is how versatile it is! Here are a few ways to customize it to suit your preferences:
1. Make It Vegetarian
Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and use a vegetarian-friendly cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken soup.
2. Gluten-Free Modification
Ensure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free, or make your own by thickening broth with cornstarch and milk.
3. Add Extra Protein
For a heartier meal, stir in:
- Shredded rotisserie chicken
- Diced ham
- Extra crispy bacon
4. Give It a Spicy Kick
Love a little heat? Try adding:
- A pinch of cayenne pepper
- Diced jalapeños
- A few dashes of hot sauce
5. Change the Texture
- If you love chunky potato soup, leave it as is.
- For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to blend some of the soup while leaving a few potato chunks intact.
For more creative ways to make soups, explore Pinterest’s collection of potato soup ideas.
What to Serve with Crock Pot Potato Soup
This creamy, cheesy soup pairs perfectly with a variety of sides!
1. Bread & Toast
- Crusty sourdough
- Garlic bread
- Buttery dinner rolls
2. Sandwich Pairings
Pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich—a classic combo! You can find delicious variations on Pinterest’s grilled cheese board.
3. Light Salads
A crisp, refreshing salad balances out the richness of the soup. Try a:
- Caesar salad
- Simple arugula salad with lemon dressing
- Spinach and feta salad
Storing & Reheating Tips
How to Store Leftovers
- Let the soup cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating Instructions
- Stovetop: Heat on low, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or milk if needed.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
Can You Freeze Crock Pot Potato Soup?
Yes, but with a few precautions:
- Dairy-based soups can separate when frozen. Stir well after thawing.
- Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
For healthier soup options, check out Pinterest’s healthy soup collection.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes! Peel and dice about 4-5 medium russet potatoes and add them instead of frozen hash browns. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly.
2. What’s the best way to make potato soup thicker?
If your soup is too thin, try:
- Blending part of the soup with an immersion blender.
- Stirring in extra cheese or sour cream.
- Adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water).
3. How do I prevent dairy from curdling in the soup?
To avoid curdling:
- Use full-fat dairy (low-fat versions separate more easily).
- Add dairy at the end of cooking, once the soup has cooled slightly.
- Reheat on low heat without boiling.
4. Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of a crock pot?
Yes! Simmer all ingredients (except cheese and dairy) in a large pot for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the potatoes are soft, stir in the cheese, cream cheese, and sour cream.
5. What are the best toppings for potato soup?
Some of the best toppings include:
- Extra cheddar cheese
- Crispy bacon or turkey bacon
- Chopped green onions
- Croutons for crunch
- Print
How to Make the Best Crock Pot Potato Soup – Easy & Creamy
This easy crock pot potato soup is the ultimate comfort food, loaded with cheddar cheese, sour cream, and turkey bacon. With minimal prep, you can have a rich, creamy, and flavorful soup ready to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner or a cozy meal for a cold night, this slow-cooked potato soup is simple to make and incredibly delicious!
Ingredients
Scale- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen hash brown potatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup cooked turkey bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Add the frozen hash brown potatoes, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the crock pot. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Mix until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
- Add the crumbled turkey bacon and stir to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and extra cheese if desired.
Notes
✔ Make it vegetarian by swapping chicken broth for vegetable broth and skipping the bacon.
✔ Want it spicier? Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
✔ For a richer taste, use full-fat dairy products.
✔ Freezes well for up to 3 months—just stir well after thawing!
