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Best Loaded Crockpot Potato Soup with Hash Browns

crockpot potato soup with hash browns - featured image
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This creamy, comforting loaded crockpot potato soup uses frozen hash browns for a shortcut that saves time and delivers a velvety texture. It’s a budget-friendly, set-it-and-forget-it meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights and loved by the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 30 oz (850 g) frozen hash browns (shredded style)
  • 4 cups (960 ml) chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz / 298 g) condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups (200 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup (240 ml) milk (whole or 2%)
  • 2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter
  • 6 slices bacon
  • 3–4 stalks green onions, sliced
  • 1 tsp (5 g) salt
  • ½ tsp (1 g) black pepper
  • 1 tsp (3 g) garlic powder
  • ½ tsp (1.5 g) onion powder
  • Optional toppings: sour cream, extra shredded cheese, hot sauce

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook 6 slices of bacon until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cool, crumble or chop into bits. Set aside.
  2. Layer the base ingredients in the slow cooker: Add the entire 30 oz bag of frozen hash browns to the slow cooker (do not thaw). Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. Add the can of cream of chicken soup, 2 tablespoons of butter, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon onion powder. Stir to combine.
  3. Cook on low for 4 hours: Cover and cook on low heat. Do not lift the lid during this time.
  4. Add the cream cheese and shredded cheddar: After 4 hours, cut the softened cream cheese into cubes and add to the slow cooker. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until both are completely melted and incorporated (about 2-3 minutes).
  5. Pour in the milk: Add 1 cup of milk and stir well. Adjust to desired consistency (¾ cup for thicker, up to 1½ cups for thinner).
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning: Ladle a small spoonful, let cool slightly, and taste. Add more salt, pepper, or garlic powder if needed.
  7. Serve with toppings: Ladle soup into bowls. Top with crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, extra shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use low heat and avoid lifting the lid during cooking. Soften cream cheese before adding to prevent lumps. Soup thickens upon refrigeration; add a splash of milk or broth when reheating. This soup tastes even better the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot potato soup, loaded potato soup, hash brown soup, slow cooker soup, easy potato soup, creamy potato soup, budget-friendly soup, family dinner

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