Recipes

Easy Cheesy Potato Soup Recipe 2023

 

 

 

Ingredients:

  • 2 bags (30 oz each) frozen hash browns
  • 2 blocks (16 oz each) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 box (32 oz) chicken broth
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup diced ham
  • 1 bag (8 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon dried parsley
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • Garlic salt, to taste
  • Garlic powder, to taste
  • Slap Ya Mama seasoning, to taste (adjust based on spice preference)

Instructions:

  1. In a large crockpot, combine the frozen hash browns, softened cream cheese, chicken broth, and cream of chicken soup.
  2. Stir the mixture well, ensuring that the cream cheese is evenly distributed.
  3. Add the diced ham to the crockpot and mix it in with the other ingredients.
  4. Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, dried parsley, salt, pepper, garlic salt, garlic powder, and Slap Ya Mama seasoning. Adjust the seasoning quantities based on your taste preferences.
  5. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
  6. Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low heat for 4-5 hours, allowing the soup to simmer and the flavors to meld together.
  7. Stir occasionally during the cooking process to prevent sticking and to promote even cooking.
  8. Once the soup is creamy and the potatoes are tender, it’s ready to be served.
  9. Ladle the hot and cheesy potato soup into bowls.
  10. Garnish with additional shredded cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of parsley, and a dash of Slap Ya Mama seasoning if desired.
  11. Serve the soup hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this easy and cheesy potato soup!

Here are some tips to make your Easy Cheesy Potato Soup even more delightful:

  1. Bacon Bliss: Cook and crumble bacon to add a smoky and savory flavor. Top each bowl with bacon bits before serving.
  2. Vegetable Medley: Enhance the nutritional value by adding vegetables like chopped onions, celery, or carrots. Sauté them before adding to the crockpot for an extra layer of flavor.
  3. Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives to elevate the soup’s aroma and taste. Add them during the last hour of cooking for a burst of freshness.
  4. Hot and Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
  5. Custom Cheese Blend: Mix different cheeses like sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for a more complex and varied cheesy flavor.
  6. Creamy Texture: For an even creamier texture, stir in a cup of sour cream or half-and-half in the last hour of cooking.
  7. Fresh Garnishes: Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of green onions, or a handful of fresh chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.
  8. Serve in Bread Bowls: Hollow out small bread bowls and ladle the soup into them for a creative and tasty presentation.
  9. Toppings Galore: Offer an assortment of toppings at the table, such as extra shredded cheese, croutons, or even a drizzle of hot sauce, allowing everyone to customize their bowl.
  10. Leftover Magic: Save some soup for the next day – flavors often meld even more, making the leftovers even more delicious.

Remember, cooking is an art, and feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences!

Here are some tips to help you reach soup perfection:

  1. Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality ingredients, especially the cheese and chicken broth, as they contribute significantly to the flavor of the soup.
  2. Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened and at room temperature before adding it to the crockpot. This helps it blend seamlessly into the soup, preventing lumps.
  3. Layering Flavors: Sautéing diced onions, garlic, and other vegetables before adding them to the crockpot can enhance the depth of flavor in your soup.
  4. Grated Cheese Technique: If possible, grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties. Freshly grated cheese tends to melt more smoothly and has a richer taste.
  5. Low and Slow Cooking: Cooking the soup on low heat for the recommended 4-5 hours allows the flavors to meld and intensify. Avoid rushing the process on high heat for the best results.
  6. Stirring Technique: Stir the soup occasionally during the cooking process to prevent sticking, ensure even cooking, and help the ingredients meld together seamlessly.
  7. Cheese Addition Timing: Add the shredded cheese towards the end of the cooking time to prevent it from breaking and becoming greasy. Stir it in gently until fully melted.
  8. Balancing Seasonings: Taste the soup periodically and adjust the seasoning as needed. The right balance of salt, pepper, and other seasonings is crucial for a perfect flavor profile.
  9. Fresh Herbs at the End: Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives during the last hour of cooking to maintain their vibrant flavors and colors.
  10. Patience is Key: Allow the soup to rest for a few minutes before serving. This gives the flavors a chance to settle and intensify, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious dish.
  11. Consistency Check: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes with a fork or use an immersion blender to achieve the desired consistency.
  12. Quality Crockpot: Invest in a reliable crockpot with even heat distribution for consistent results.

Remember, cooking is subjective, and these tips can be adjusted based on your personal preferences. Enjoy your delicious Easy Cheesy Potato Soup!

Here are some frequently asked questions and answers related to the Easy Cheesy Potato Soup Recipe:

  1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
    • Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Peel and dice them into small cubes for a similar result. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
  2. What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
    • You can use cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup as alternatives for a different flavor profile.
  3. Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of a crockpot?
    • Yes, you can adapt the recipe for the stovetop. Simmer the soup on low heat, stirring occasionally until the potatoes are tender.
  4. Is it possible to make this soup ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can make the soup ahead and reheat it. However, be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating, and you may need to adjust the consistency with additional broth or cream.
  5. Can I freeze Easy Cheesy Potato Soup?
    • Freezing may alter the texture, particularly with dairy-based soups. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you decide to freeze it, thaw and reheat gently, adding a bit of extra broth or cream if needed.
  6. What can I serve with Easy Cheesy Potato Soup?
    • Serve with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
  7. How can I make the soup vegetarian?
    • Omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
  8. What other cheeses can I use besides cheddar?
    • Experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or a blend of different cheeses to customize the flavor.
  9. How do I prevent the cream cheese from clumping?
    • Ensure the cream cheese is softened and at room temperature before adding it to the soup. Whisk or stir vigorously to incorporate it evenly.
  10. Can I use an Instant Pot for this recipe?
    • Yes, you can adapt the recipe for the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for about 10-15 minutes, then release pressure naturally for a few minutes before quick-releasing.
  11. What do I do if the soup is too thick?
    • Add more chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
  12. How do I store leftovers?
    • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little liquid if necessary.