Are you tired of the same old leftovers sitting in your fridge? Transform your uneaten mashed potatoes into a creamy, comforting bowl of Easy Slow Cooker Leftover Mashed Potato Soup! This delightful recipe not only breathes new life into your leftovers but also fills your home with mouthwatering aromas that will have everyone asking for seconds. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a hearty meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare your slow cooker by lightly greasing the interior with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Transfer the leftover mashed potatoes into the slow cooker, breaking up any large clumps with a wooden spoon to ensure even heating.
- Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring gently to combine and create a smooth, consistent mixture without lumps.
- Add milk to the potato mixture, stirring to incorporate and create a creamy base for the soup.
- Sprinkle garlic powder into the soup, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Allow the soup to cook for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching and ensure even heating.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely and blends into the soup.
- Once the soup is heated through and has a smooth, creamy consistency, taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and garnish with chopped green onions.
- Serve immediately with crusty bread or crackers for a comforting meal.
Tips
- Prep Your Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the interior of your slow cooker with cooking spray or butter to prevent the soup from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- Break Up the Potatoes: When adding the leftover mashed potatoes, use a wooden spoon to break up any large clumps. This ensures even heating and a smoother soup texture.
- Gradual Mixing: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth gradually while stirring. This helps create a smooth, lump-free consistency that is essential for a creamy soup.
- Adjust the Creaminess: Feel free to adjust the amount of milk based on your preferred soup thickness. For a richer soup, add a bit more milk or even a splash of cream.
- Season to Taste: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Taste the soup as it cooks and adjust the seasonings to suit your palate for the best flavor.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: For an extra cheesy soup, consider adding more shredded cheddar cheese or experimenting with other types of cheese like Gruyère or Monterey Jack during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Garnish for Flair: Elevate your soup presentation by garnishing with freshly chopped green onions, which add a pop of color and a burst of flavor.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your soup with crusty bread or crunchy crackers for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
