If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Crock Pot Potato Soup Recipe is just what you need. It combines creamy, cheesy potatoes with a wonderful blend of herbs and spices, all slow-cooked to perfection in your crock pot. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe guarantees a velvety, satisfying soup that’s easy to make and even easier to love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white slow cooker filled with layers of soup ingredients on a white marbled surface. The first layer is diced white potatoes mixed with a clear, light brown broth speckled with black pepper and herbs, filling the cooker halfway. In the next stage, a woman's hand pours a creamy white liquid into the cooker, blending with the potato and broth mixture. Then shredded orange cheddar cheese is added in a thick layer on top. The final stage shows a thick, creamy light tan soup with visible soft potato chunks being lifted by a dark ladle from the cooker, showing a smooth and rich texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that work together to create a comforting dish full of flavor and texture. Each element plays an essential role, from the tender hash browns that provide the base to the sharp cheddar that adds that perfect cheesy punch.

32 ounces frozen cubed hash brown potatoes: These provide the hearty potato base that cooks into a creamy texture without needing peeling or chopping fresh potatoes.
1 small onion diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the soup as it softens during cooking.
2 cloves garlic minced: Brings a fragrant, savory note that complements the potatoes beautifully.
32 ounces chicken broth: The flavorful liquid that carries all the seasonings and helps cook the potatoes thoroughly.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors in the soup but can be adjusted depending on your other salty additions.
½ teaspoon pepper: Provides a mild heat and balances out the richness of the soup.
½ teaspoon chili powder: Adds a warm, smoky hint without overpowering the dish.
½ teaspoon thyme: Offers a subtle earthiness that rounds out the flavor profile.
8 ounces heavy cream: Makes the soup luxuriously creamy and smooth when incorporated near the end of cooking.
3 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps thicken the soup to that perfect luscious consistency.
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated: Gives the soup its unmistakable cheesy richness and slightly tangy bite.

How to Make Crock Pot Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients

Start by placing the frozen hash brown potatoes, diced onion, and minced garlic into a 3-quart slow cooker. Add the chicken broth along with kosher salt, pepper, chili powder, and thyme. Give everything a good stir, making sure the spices are evenly distributed. This is where your soup’s flavor foundation is built, so don’t be shy with the stirring! Cover the crock pot and set it on low for about 4 hours or high for around 2 hours. You want the potatoes tender enough to mash easily with a fork.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream and Cheese Mixture

While the potatoes are cooking, whisk together the heavy cream and cornstarch in a separate bowl until smooth. This mixture will give your soup that creamy body and thick texture that makes it truly indulgent. Once the potatoes are ready, pour the cream and cornstarch blend into the crock pot and add the freshly grated cheddar cheese. Stir everything together to meld those rich flavors.

Step 3: Final Cooking and Melting

Replace the cover and let your soup cook for another 30 minutes. This step is crucial because it allows the cheese to melt perfectly and the soup to thicken nicely. When it’s bubbling gently and your kitchen starts smelling amazing, you know you’re almost ready to dig in!

How to Serve Crock Pot Potato Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with thick creamy soup, showing soft chunks of potato throughout its pale yellow base. The soup is topped with thin shredded orange cheddar cheese scattered on one side, small crispy pieces of browned bacon beside it, and golden brown croutons piled near the center. Bright green chopped chives are sprinkled over the entire surface. The bowl sits on a wooden board placed on a white marbled surface. In the background, two small clear glass bowls hold extra bacon bits and croutons. A beige cloth with red stripes rests near the top right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishes are such an easy way to elevate your bowl of soup from tasty to unforgettable. Crumbled bacon adds a smoky crunch, extra shredded cheese brings even more gooey goodness, fresh chives lend a mild oniony brightness, and crunchy croutons provide a delightful texture contrast. Pick your favorites or go for all of them to really celebrate the flavors.

Side Dishes

Pair this soup with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up every creamy drop. A simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette can brighten things up and add some freshness to the meal. For something heartier, a side of roasted vegetables or even a grilled sandwich would complement the soup beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests or just treat yourself, try serving this soup in mini bread bowls for a rustic look. Alternatively, layer the soup with crispy bits of bacon and cheese in a clear glass bowl for an inviting presentation. Adding a swirl of sour cream or a sprinkle of smoked paprika on top can also bring an extra pop of flavor and color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Crock Pot Potato Soup Recipe stores beautifully in the fridge for 3 to 4 days when kept in an airtight container. The flavors even deepen after a day or two. Just give it a good stir before reheating to bring back that luscious texture.

Freezing

While freezing soup with dairy can sometimes alter texture, this recipe does freeze well if you reheat it gently. Freeze in individual portions for convenience, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming. The soup might need a little extra stirring or a splash of milk or broth to regain its creamy consistency.

Reheating

Reheat your leftover soup slowly on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to evenly distribute heat. You can also use a microwave, stopping to stir every minute or so. Adding a small splash of broth or cream can help restore the soup to its original creamy glory.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Absolutely! Fresh diced potatoes work just as well but may need a bit more time to cook through. Just adjust your crock pot timing accordingly until the potatoes are tender.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use cornstarch that’s certified gluten-free and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free as well. Always double-check labels if you have sensitivities.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and your soup remains just as comforting and delicious. You might want to experiment with adding extra herbs for a bit more flavor depth.

What if I don’t have cornstarch?

You can substitute cornstarch with flour to thicken the soup, but mix it with a bit of cold water first to avoid lumps. Another option is using arrowroot powder in the same way as cornstarch.

How spicy is the chili powder in this recipe?

The chili powder adds a subtle warmth without making the soup spicy-hot. If you prefer a little more kick, feel free to increase the amount or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Final Thoughts

Making this Crock Pot Potato Soup Recipe is like creating a little cozy magic in your kitchen. With minimal prep and effortless slow cooking, you’ll have a bowl of creamy comfort ready to soothe any chilly evening or busy day. Trust me, once you try it, this soup will become one of your go-to comfort foods that you’ll want to make again and again.

Crock Pot Potato Soup Recipe