Paula Deen’s Crockpot Potato Soup Recipe

“Paula Deen’s Crockpot Potato Soup is a creamy, hearty dish made with frozen hash browns, chicken broth, and a touch of cream cheese for extra richness. This slow cooker potato soup recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and can be customized with your favorite toppings like cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions. With minimal prep time, this easy potato soup is a comforting and flavorful meal that will quickly become a family favorite. Try this simple, delicious potato soup recipe for a warm and satisfying dinner tonight!”

Ingredients:

• 1 (30 oz) bag frozen hash brown potatoes
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional garnishes: green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled cooked bacon

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Add the frozen hash brown potatoes, chopped onion, and chopped green and red bell peppers into the slow cooker.
2. Add Broth and Soup: Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the can of condensed cream of chicken soup. Stir to combine the ingredients. Add the bay leaves and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Cook the Soup: Cover the slow cooker and cook the soup on low for 6 hours, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
4. Finish the Soup: About 30 minutes before the cooking time is complete, stir in the softened cream cheese. Continue cooking for the remaining time, allowing the cream cheese to melt and incorporate into the soup.
5. Serve and Garnish: Once the soup is done, remove the bay leaves. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with optional toppings such as green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled cooked bacon. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Tips

• Thicker Soup: For a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the hash browns after cooking or use an immersion blender for a smoother texture.
• Cream Cheese Tip: Make sure the cream cheese is softened before adding it to the soup to avoid clumping. You can also substitute with sour cream for a tangy twist.
• Salt Adjustment: Be mindful of the salt as the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth already contain some. Taste the soup before adding additional salt.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and substitute the cream of chicken soup with a cream of mushroom soup to make it vegetarian-friendly.
• Add Bacon: For extra flavor, add crumbled bacon directly into the soup along with the other ingredients, or top each bowl with crispy bacon.
• Add Garlic: Stir in some minced garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few chopped jalapeños for a spicy variation.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of hash browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Peel and cube them into small pieces, but keep in mind it may require slightly more cooking time than the hash browns.

Can I cook this soup on high in the crockpot?
Yes, you can cook it on high for 3 to 4 hours if you’re short on time. However, cooking on low allows the flavors to develop better.

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container and storing in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in a pot on the stove or in the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this creamy potato soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.
• Pair it with a sandwich, such as a grilled cheese or turkey club, for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
• Add extra garnishes like sour cream, shredded cheese, or crispy croutons for more texture and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Paula Deen’s Crockpot Potato Soup is a comforting, creamy dish that’s perfect for chilly nights. The slow cooking process ensures all the flavors meld together beautifully, making it a crowd-pleaser. With minimal prep and the convenience of a slow cooker, this hearty soup is the perfect easy weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s fully customizable with your favorite toppings and variations, so it’s sure to become a family favorite!