When the chill of winter sets in or you’re simply craving a comforting bowl of something warm, few things hit the spot like a hearty potato soup. This recipe for a 4 Ingredient Potato Soup with Frozen Hash Browns, made effortlessly in the crockpot, is a game-changer for busy days or lazy weekends. It’s one of those dishes that offers warmth and satisfaction without any complicated prep work. Plus, it takes minimal effort, making it a perfect choice for anyone with a packed schedule or limited kitchen time. If you’re a fan of creamy, cheesy, and potato-packed goodness, this one will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Now, you might be thinking, "How can something with just four ingredients possibly be any good?" Well, trust me, this simple yet flavorful recipe delivers comfort in every spoonful. So, let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that’s as tasty as it is convenient!
4 Ingredient Potato Soup With Frozen Hash Browns Crockpot Recipe
This recipe is all about making something delicious with as little fuss as possible. It’s based on a few basic pantry staples, yet it yields a creamy, velvety potato soup that’s packed with flavor. The secret? Using frozen hash browns-they’re not only quick to use but also give the soup the perfect texture. Let’s walk through what you’ll need.
Ingredients Needed
- Frozen Hash Browns (about 30-32 oz)
- Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz)
- Chicken Broth (4 cups)
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 ½ cups)
That’s it! Four simple ingredients that you probably already have at home. It’s all about combining these elements into a perfectly balanced, creamy, and comforting soup. You won’t believe how something so easy can taste so amazing.
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prep The Slow Cooker
- Start by spraying the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray or lining it with a slow-cooker liner to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. This simple step will save you from a tough scrubbing session later.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
- Dump the frozen hash browns straight into the slow cooker. No need to thaw them first-just open the bag and pour them in!
- Add the cream of chicken soup. This will provide that velvety base for the soup. If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can swap this for cream of mushroom or another variety to suit your taste.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir everything together to make sure the hash browns are evenly coated in the creamy mixture. You want every potato bite to be infused with that rich flavor.
Step 3: Let It Cook
- Cover the crockpot and cook the soup on low for about 6 hours or on high for about 3 hours. If you’re in a hurry, the high setting works great. If you’ve got more time and want to let the flavors meld, go for the low setting.
- Halfway through, stir occasionally. This will help everything come together and prevent the soup from sticking to the sides of the crockpot.
Step 4: Add Cheese
- About 15 minutes before serving, add in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir it into the soup until it’s fully melted and incorporated. This adds an extra layer of richness and makes the soup irresistibly creamy.
Step 5: Serve
- Once the cheese has melted, give the soup one final stir and taste it. Add salt and pepper if needed, and you’re ready to enjoy this bowl of comfort.
Ingredient Insights
- Frozen Hash Browns: These little gems make this recipe so much easier. They cut down on prep time by eliminating the need to peel, chop, or cook potatoes. They’re also a great option for consistency since they cook evenly and break down into the soup in just the right way. You can use shredded hash browns or diced ones, depending on your texture preference.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: The canned version is a staple for quick meals. It adds a smooth, thick, and creamy texture to the soup. The flavors in the soup come from this base, so choosing a high-quality can of soup really makes a difference in the final taste.
- Chicken Broth: You can’t make potato soup without a good liquid base! Chicken broth adds depth of flavor and a savory element. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can easily swap out chicken broth for vegetable broth.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: This is what turns your simple potato soup into a creamy, cheesy indulgence. It melts into the soup, thickening it while adding richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even cream cheese for a tangy twist.
Expert Tips
- Make It a Meal: Want to elevate this soup to a complete meal? Add some cooked bacon or grilled chicken on top for added protein. You can even toss in a handful of green onions or sour cream for extra flavor and texture.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap out the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or cream of celery to make the soup vegetarian-friendly. Be sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it plant-based.
- Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the hash browns in the crockpot to break them down further. Alternatively, you could blend part of the soup with an immersion blender, then stir it back in.
- Cheese Variations: Cheddar is a classic, but feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Gouda, Swiss, or Gruyère could give the soup an interesting twist. Just make sure to use a good melting cheese for the best results.
Recipe Variations
While this potato soup is already delicious in its simplest form, there are several fun ways to customize it:
- Bacon Lovers’ Delight: Add crispy bacon bits on top for that irresistible crunch and smoky flavor. You can either cook the bacon separately and crumble it into the soup or toss the raw bacon in with the other ingredients before cooking.
- Loaded Potato Soup: Make it ’loaded’ by adding chopped green onions, sour cream, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese when serving. These toppings will bring a fresh, creamy contrast to the rich soup.
- Spicy Kick: Want to give it some heat? Add jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mix. You could also stir in a spoonful of salsa for an unexpected, zesty twist.
- Veggie-Filled: For a heartier option, throw in some carrots, celery, or even spinach about halfway through cooking. These additions will give your soup more texture and a deeper flavor profile.
Final Words
This 4 Ingredient Potato Soup with Frozen Hash Browns is one of those recipes that makes you feel like a genius in the kitchen. The ingredients are basic, the steps are simple, but the result is nothing short of comforting. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a cold day, or just want to indulge in something creamy and satisfying, this potato soup hits all the right notes. Plus, the fact that it’s made in the crockpot means you can set it and forget it while you go about your day.