Ret Soup
Introduction
Imagine coming home to the rich aroma of creamy, cheesy potato soup simmering in your crockpot—pure comfort food bliss! Moreover, this crockpot potato soup with frozen potatoes is the ultimate hands-off meal for busy days. Also, it’s hearty, incredibly easy to make, and requires minimal prep time thanks to the convenience of frozen diced or shredded potatoes.
Furthermore, with just a handful of ingredients, a slow cooker, and almost no effort, you’ll have a warm, comforting bowl of soup perfect for chilly nights, family dinners, or meal prepping. So, let’s dive into this effortless yet incredibly satisfying recipe!
Why You’ll Love Crockpot Potato Soup
- Super Easy – Toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work!
- Minimal Prep – No peeling, chopping, or dicing required.
- Creamy & Comforting – Rich, velvety, and full of flavor.
- Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable ingredients you probably already have.
- Feeds a Crowd – Perfect for family meals, potlucks, and gatherings.
- Customizable – Adjust flavors, toppings, or make it dairy-free.
Ingredients of Crockpot Potato Soup
So, this slow cooker potato soup is made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen diced or shredded hash brown potatoes – Saves time and effort.
- 1 small onion (chopped) – Adds depth of flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced) – Enhances the richness.
- 4 cups chicken broth – The soup’s flavorful base.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – For an extra creamy texture.
- 1 cup sour cream – Adds a tangy, creamy touch.
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk – Adjusts the creaminess.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into the soup for a rich, cheesy flavor.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper – A hint of spice.
- 1/2 tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional) – Adds a warm, herby note.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional) – For a hint of smokiness.
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon (crumbled) – Adds extra flavor.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes – If you like a little heat.
- 1/2 cup diced ham – A heartier version.
Necessary Tools for Crockpot Potato Soup
- Crockpot (Slow Cooker) – For effortless cooking.
- Ladle – To serve the soup easily.
- Measuring cups & spoons – For precise ingredients.
- Cutting board & knife – For chopping the onion and garlic.
- Whisk – To mix in cream and cheese smoothly.
Also, craving a cozy bowl of comfort? Try this delicious Potato Soup recipe from Gimme Some Oven for a rich, creamy, and satisfying meal!
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
This potato soup recipe is versatile—here’s how to customize it:
- Make It Lighter → Use low-fat sour cream and milk instead of heavy cream.
- Thicker Soup → Mash some potatoes with a spoon or add instant mashed potatoes.
- Vegetarian Version → Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and use cream of mushroom soup.
- Extra Protein → Add shredded rotisserie chicken or diced ham.
- Dairy-Free → Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of dairy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot
- Place the frozen potatoes, chopped onion, and garlic into the crockpot.
- Pour in chicken broth and cream of chicken soup, then stir to combine.
- Sprinkle in salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika (if using).
2: Slow Cook the Soup
- Then, cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
- Stir occasionally if possible to prevent sticking.
3: Add Dairy & Cheese
- In the last 30 minutes, stir in sour cream, heavy cream, and shredded cheese.
- Let it melt and blend into the soup, making it creamy and smooth.
4: Adjust & Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- If the soup is too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to thin it out.
- Then, ladle into bowls and top with extra cheese, bacon, and green onions.
Pro Tips for Success of Crockpot Potato Soup
- Use frozen diced potatoes for a chunkier texture or frozen shredded hash browns for a smoother soup.
- Besides that, don’t overcook – Cooking too long can make the potatoes mushy.
- For an ultra-smooth soup, blend half with an immersion blender.
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth or milk before serving.
- Moreover, cheese tip – Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
Serving Suggestions
This crockpot potato soup pairs well with:
🥖 Crusty bread – Ideal for dipping.
🥗 Side salad – A fresh, crisp contrast.
🥓 Extra bacon – Because more bacon is always a good idea!
🧀 Parmesan or cheddar topping – For an extra cheesy touch.
Storing and Reheating
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
- Add liquid if needed – The soup thickens as it cools.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~350
- Protein: 12g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
Of course, peel and dice 4–5 russet or Yukon gold potatoes and follow the same steps.
2. Can I make this soup without cream of chicken soup?
Yes, replace it with an extra ½ cup of heavy cream and 1 tbsp flour to thicken.
3. How do I make this soup extra creamy?
Blend half the soup with an immersion blender or add more cheese and heavy cream.
4. Can I cook this soup on the stovetop instead of the crockpot?
Absolutely! Simmer all ingredients in a large pot for 30–40 minutes, then stir in dairy at the end.
5. What’s the best way to freeze this soup?
Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
So, this crockpot potato soup with frozen potatoes is the ultimate easy comfort food. Moreover, it’s warm, creamy, and incredibly simple to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights, cold days, or meal prep. Additionally, with minimal effort and maximum flavor, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home!
Furthermore, this 4-Ingredient Potato Soup is simple, creamy, and packed with flavor—perfect for an easy, comforting meal!
So, try it today and let us know how you liked it!
