After a long day, there’s something incredibly soothing about coming home to the warm, comforting aroma of crockpot potato soup with hashbrowns bubbling away in the kitchen. Picture this: a rich, creamy blend of cheddar cheese, savory chicken broth, and tender bits of potato, all lovingly melded together in a single pot. This delightful dish not only warms the soul but also leaves you feeling satisfied and content—perfect for those chilly evenings or gatherings with friends.
I discovered this recipe during a busy week when fast food was losing its appeal, and I craved something homemade yet effortless. With just 15 minutes of prep and a hands-off cooking method, it quickly became a go-to in my kitchen for its incredible flavor and simplicity. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a comforting side, this crockpot potato soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s bound to become a favorite in your home, making it the ideal antidote for anyone seeking to escape the monotony of takeout. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s as easy as it is satisfying!
Why is Crockpot Potato Soup With Hashbrowns a Must-Try?
Comforting warmth: This soup wraps you in a cozy embrace, making it perfect for chilly nights.
Effortless prep: Just 15 minutes to set up, then let your crockpot do the magic!
Flavor explosion: The creamy combination of cheddar, chicken broth, and spices creates a taste that just delights your taste buds.
Versatile delight: Serve it as a hearty main dish or a creamy side—it fits any occasion!
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone, from kids to adults, can’t resist its rich, savory goodness, ensuring seconds are a must!
Imagine the joy of serving such a delightful dish to your loved ones! For more comforting recipes, check out our section on easy slow-cooker meals!
Crockpot Potato Soup With Hashbrowns Ingredients
• For a creamy, delicious crockpot potato soup with hashbrowns, gather these essentials:
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hashbrowns – saves time, no peeling or chopping needed
- 4 cups chicken broth – for a rich, savory base
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – adds a velvety texture
- 1 cup onion, diced – enhances flavor with sweetness
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded – choose sharp for extra flavor
- 1 cup sour cream – brings creaminess and tang
- to taste salt – enhances overall flavor
- to taste pepper – adds a hint of warmth
How to Make Crockpot Potato Soup With Hashbrowns
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Layer: Begin by placing the frozen hashbrowns directly into your crockpot. This forms the hearty base of your soup, ensuring every spoonful has that lovely potato goodness.
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Combine: Pour in the chicken broth and add the cream of chicken soup, along with the diced onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. This mixture will create a wonderfully creamy soup!
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Season: Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always adjust the seasoning later, so start with a little and add more if needed.
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Stir: Gently stir the mixture until all the ingredients are well combined. This will help distribute flavors evenly throughout the soup.
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Cook: Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 4 hours, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and fragrant!
Optional: Top with crispy bacon bits or fresh chives for added flavor and crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Potato Soup With Hashbrowns
Fridge: Store your leftover crockpot potato soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth for creaminess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before sealing. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat the thawed soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in short bursts, adding a bit of broth if it’s too thick.
Flavor boost: Feel free to add a bit more cheese or a dollop of sour cream while reheating to rejuvenate the flavors of this comforting dish.
Crockpot Potato Soup With Hashbrowns Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own, bringing in flavors that excite your taste buds.
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Vegetarian: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and use cream of mushroom soup for a rich, hearty vegetarian option.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative to maintain creaminess without the dairy.
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Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for an extra kick that will warm you right up.
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Bacon Lover’s Twist: Mix in crispy bacon bits for a savory crunch that enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like chives or parsley just before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
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Loaded Style: Top with sour cream, shredded cheese, and green onions to create a loaded potato soup experience that feels indulgent.
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Texture Variation: Incorporate some diced celery or carrots for added crunch and a fun twist on the texture.
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Protein Boost: Add shredded cooked chicken or turkey to transform this soup into a heartier meal that’s even more satisfying.
What to Serve with Crockpot Potato Soup With Hashbrowns?
Nothing quite complements a warm bowl of soup like delightful sides that enhance your cozy dining experience.
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Garlic Bread: Perfectly crispy with a buttery, garlicky finish, it’s ideal for soaking up every drop of your creamy soup.
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Simple Salad: A refreshing mix of greens with a light vinaigrette brings a burst of freshness that balances the soup’s richness.
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Crusty Baguette: The chewy texture of a fresh baguette is great for dipping, adding an artisanal touch to your meal.
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Steamed Broccoli: Tender, vibrant florets add a pop of color and nutritious goodness, offering a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.
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Bacon Bits: Crispy bacon crumbles sprinkled on top introduce an irresistible savory twist that elevates each bite!
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Savory Scones: Flaky cheddar scones with a hint of herbs add a comforting touch and are perfect for pairing with warm soup.
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Apple Cider: A warm mug of spiced apple cider brings a seasonal sweetness that beautifully contrasts the savory flavors of the soup.
With these delicious pairings, you’ll create a comforting meal that everyone will love!
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Potato Soup With Hashbrowns are perfect for busy weeknights and can be easily prepped in advance! You can prepare the chopped onion and combine the frozen hashbrowns with the cream of chicken soup in your crockpot, then refrigerate it up to 24 hours before cooking. This way, when you’re ready to enjoy, simply pour in the chicken broth, stir in the sour cream, and season with salt and pepper just before cooking. For optimal freshness, avoid adding the cheese until you’re about to start cooking, as it maintains its creaminess better this way. With these simple make-ahead steps, you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal with minimal effort waiting for you at the end of your day!
Expert Tips for Crockpot Potato Soup With Hashbrowns
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Hashbrown Choice: Use frozen hashbrowns for convenience. Fresh potatoes will require additional prep and cooking time—skip the hassle!
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Customize Flavor: Experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack or gouda, to add a unique twist to your crockpot potato soup with hashbrowns.
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Control Thickness: If soup is too thick after cooking, add a little extra chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
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Watch the Seasoning: Start with a small amount of salt and pepper; you can always adjust later to avoid over-seasoning.
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Stir Occasionally: Stirring every so often helps prevent ingredients from settling and ensures an even distribution of flavors as it cooks.
Crockpot Potato Soup With Hashbrowns Recipe FAQs
What type of hashbrowns should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using frozen hashbrowns because they save time and eliminate the need for peeling or chopping. Fresh potatoes can work, but you’ll need to prepare them beforehand and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How long can I store leftover crockpot potato soup in the fridge?
Very! You can store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I suggest adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain its creamy consistency.
Can I freeze my crockpot potato soup? If so, how?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, allow your soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space for expansion, as liquids can expand when frozen. It’s best to use it within 2 months for optimal flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.
What should I do if my soup is too thick after cooking?
No worries! If you find your soup is too thick for your liking, simply add a bit more chicken broth while stirring to reach your desired consistency. Heat it gently on the stove while mixing until the texture is just right.
Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you have specific allergies or dietary preferences, you can customize the ingredients. For a gluten-free option, make sure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free. Additionally, if you’re looking for a dairy-free version, there are almond-based cream soups and non-dairy cheese alternatives available that can be used instead. Just be mindful of the adjustments in cooking times and flavors.
Can I use fresh ingredients instead of frozen?
Very! If you prefer to use fresh potatoes and onions, start by peeling and dicing the potatoes before cooking. You’ll want to sauté the onions for a few minutes to enhance their sweetness. Combine everything in the crockpot but increase the cooking time to about 7-8 hours on low since fresh ingredients take longer to soften. Enjoy the fresh twist!
Cozy Up with Indulgent Crockpot Potato Soup With Hashbrowns
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by placing the frozen hashbrowns directly into your crockpot.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the cream of chicken soup, along with the diced onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream.
- Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste.
- Gently stir the mixture until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 4 hours, stirring occasionally.
