Crock Pot Loaded Potato Soup

Crock Pot Loaded Potato Soup is a creamy, hearty, and comforting dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. With a blend of flavorful ingredients like shredded hash browns, bacon, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese, this soup is a crowd-pleaser. The best part? It’s easy to make and practically cooks itself in the slow cooker!

Ingredients:

• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns
• 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• Chopped green onions, for garnish

Directions:

1. In a crock pot, combine chicken broth, frozen hash browns, cream of chicken soup, chopped onion, and black pepper.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, add cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and cooked bacon. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the ingredients are well combined.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.

Servings and Timing:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) / 3-4 hours (High)
• Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes (Low) / 4 hours 30 minutes (High)
• Servings: 8

Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Extra Veggies: Add some carrots, celery, or corn for added texture and flavor.
• Spicy Twist: For a kick, add a chopped jalapeño or some red pepper flakes to the soup.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and cheese substitutes for a dairy-free version.

Storage and Reheating:

• Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little extra chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.

10 FAQs:

1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of hash browns? Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Simply peel and dice them into small cubes before adding them to the crock pot.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the soup a day or two in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.
3. Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
4. Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, gouda, or a blend of your favorites.
5. What can I use if I don’t have cream of chicken soup? You can use cream of mushroom soup or a homemade cream sauce if you prefer.
6. How can I make this soup thicker? To make the soup thicker, mash some of the hash browns with a potato masher before adding the cheese and bacon.
7. Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead? Yes, you can make this soup on the stovetop by simmering the ingredients in a large pot until the potatoes are tender. Add the cheese and bacon at the end, just like the crock pot method.
8. How spicy is this soup? The soup isn’t spicy by default, but you can add spices or hot sauce to make it as spicy as you like.
9. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon? Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a leaner alternative to regular bacon.
10. Can I use a different type of broth? Yes, you can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a different flavor or for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion:

Crock Pot Loaded Potato Soup is a simple yet indulgent dish that requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. With its creamy base, rich cheese, and savory bacon, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you make it for dinner, a gathering, or just to warm up on a cold day, this soup is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings.

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