Hash Brown Potato Soup Recipe: Creamy, Easy, and Delicious

What Is Hash Brown Potato Soup?

Hash brown potato soup is a creamy, hearty, and comforting dish made with shredded hash brown potatoes as the star ingredient. This soup combines the rich flavors of potatoes, cream, and seasonings to create a meal that’s perfect for cold days or when you’re craving something warm and filling. By incorporating hash browns, it’s a quick and efficient recipe that cuts down on prep time while still delivering the same delicious taste of traditional potato soups.

The dish is versatile and can easily be customized with toppings like shredded cheese or green onions. Whether you’re making it as a starter or the main course, hash brown potato soup is bound to please anyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless to Make: This recipe requires minimal preparation since it uses frozen hash browns instead of peeling and dicing potatoes.
• Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are affordable and easily available at most grocery stores.
• Comfort Food: The creamy texture and savory flavors make it the ultimate comfort dish.
• Versatile: You can adjust the recipe to suit dietary preferences or available ingredients.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this soup appeals to all age groups.

In addition, using hash brown potato soup as a base, you can create variations such as adding cooked chicken, roasted vegetables, or even spices like paprika for extra flavor.

Ingredients for Hash Brown Potato Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful soup:

Primary Ingredients:

• 1 package (32 ounces) of frozen hash brown potatoes (shredded or cubed, as per preference)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ons:

• Chopped green onions
• Paprika or cayenne pepper for heat
• Croutons for added texture

Using quality ingredients will ensure your hash brown potato soup is rich and flavorful. Adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences.

Tools Needed for This Recipe

Kitchen Essentials:

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: A wide, heavy-bottomed pot ensures even cooking and prevents scorching.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring and preventing sticking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key for the perfect consistency.
• Knife and Cutting Board: To prepare any fresh ingredients like onions and garlic.

Optional Tools:

• Immersion Blender: To make the soup smoother if desired.
• Cheese Grater: Freshly grated cheese melts better in the soup.
• Ladle: For easy serving.

Having these tools ready simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to focus on perfecting the flavor of your hash brown potato soup.

Hash Brown Potato Soup Recipe: Creamy, Easy, and Delicious

Course: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

250

kcal

Total time

40

minutes

This creamy hash brown potato soup is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that combines savory flavors with a velvety texture. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, it uses frozen hash browns for quick prep and offers endless customization options with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

• Primary Ingredients:

• 1 package (32 ounces) of frozen hash brown potatoes (shredded or cubed, as per preference)

• 1 medium onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)

• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional Add-Ons:

• Chopped green onions

• Paprika or cayenne pepper for heat

• Croutons for added texture

Directions

• Prepare the Base
• Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add diced onion and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3–5 minutes.
• Stir in flour, cooking for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. This helps thicken the soup.
• Add the Liquids
• Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, ensuring the base is smooth.
• Incorporate the Potatoes
• Add the frozen hash brown potatoes to the pot.
• Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let the mixture simmer for 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
• Add Dairy
• Stir in heavy cream, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese.
• Mix until the cheese melts completely and the soup achieves a creamy consistency.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Serve and Garnish
• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with toppings such as beef bits, green onions, or additional cheese.

Notes

• For the best flavor, use quality broth and freshly grated cheese. Adjust the seasoning to your preference, and don’t skip the toppings—they add extra texture and taste! This soup can be easily customized to suit dietary preferences, making it a versatile option for any meal.

For a more detailed guide on creating flavorful soups, check out this comprehensive soup-making tutorial.

Tips for the Perfect Hash Brown Potato Soup

Creating the perfect hash brown potato soup requires attention to detail and some key techniques. Here are expert tips to help you achieve rich flavor and creamy texture:

• Use High-Quality Broth: A good broth serves as the flavor foundation. Opt for low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to control salt levels.
• Sauté Aromatics First: Cooking onions and garlic in butter before adding other ingredients releases their flavor, enhancing the soup.
• Thicken Gradually: When using flour, cook it with butter to make a roux before adding liquid. This prevents lumps and ensures smoothness.
• Season As You Go: Taste the soup at different stages and adjust seasoning. Adding salt and pepper incrementally avoids over-seasoning.
• Choose the Right Potatoes: Frozen hash browns work well, but using a mix of shredded and cubed hash browns can improve texture.
• Add Dairy Last: Stir in cream, sour cream, and cheese after the soup has simmered to avoid curdling.

Following these tips guarantees a bowl of hash brown potato soup that’s both flavorful and visually appealing.

Popular Variations of Hash Brown Potato Soup

One of the great things about hash brown potato soup is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some popular variations:

• Loaded Hash Brown Potato Soup: Add beef bits, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions on top for a loaded baked potato flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and skip the beef. Add roasted vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra depth.
• Spicy Twist: Stir in cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or diced jalapeños to give the soup a kick.
• Seafood Option: Add cooked shrimp, crab meat, or clams to transform the soup into a coastal-inspired dish.
• Healthy Swap: Use low-fat dairy products or substitute cream with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Experimenting with these variations makes hash brown potato soup a recipe you’ll never tire of.

Serving Suggestions

Enhancing the experience of enjoying hash brown potato soup is all about pairing it with the right sides and garnishes:

• Cheddar Cheese or Chives: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or freshly chopped chives on top of each bowl for added flavor and a touch of freshness. For more topping inspiration, explore our perfect baked potato pairings.
• Crusty Bread or Garlic Toast: Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or warm dinner rolls to complement the soup’s creamy texture. Pair with ideas from our traditional oat molasses bread recipe.
• Light Salads: Pair the soup with a simple green salad or a tangy coleslaw to balance the richness. Check out our guide to creating customizable cobb salads for more ideas.
• Sparkling Water or Iced Tea: Enjoy the soup with a glass of sparkling water or a refreshing iced tea. For creative non-alcoholic drink options, explore our smoothie recipes without yogurt.

For special occasions, serve hash brown potato soup as a starter, followed by a hearty entrée, ensuring a satisfying dining experience.

How to Store and Reheat

Proper storage and reheating are essential to maintaining the flavor and texture of hash brown potato soup. Follow these steps to keep your leftovers fresh:

Storing:

• Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions. Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving room for expansion.

Reheating:

• On the Stovetop: Reheat the soup over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or milk to restore its creamy consistency.
• In the Microwave: Heat the soup in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

For more storage tips, check out this guide to freezing soups.

By following these guidelines, your hash brown potato soup will taste just as delicious as when it was freshly made.

FAQ’S

Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Hash Browns?

Yes, you can absolutely use fresh potatoes instead of hash browns for this recipe! However, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the soup maintains its creamy texture and quick cooking time. To substitute fresh potatoes, peel and shred them using a box grater or food processor. Alternatively, you can dice them into small cubes if you prefer a chunkier texture. Keep in mind that fresh potatoes may take slightly longer to cook, so simmer them until tender before adding dairy ingredients. While using fresh potatoes adds a homemade touch, frozen hash browns save time without compromising on flavor.

Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?

Yes, making this recipe vegan is entirely possible with a few simple substitutions. Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth to maintain a rich and savory base. For the creamy texture, use plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or coconut milk, and substitute sour cream with a vegan alternative or plain unsweetened yogurt. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor in place of cheddar cheese, while vegan butter works well for sautéing. These adjustments allow you to create a vegan version of hash brown potato soup without losing the comforting essence of the dish.

What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Soup?

The best way to thicken hash brown potato soup depends on your preference for texture and ingredients on hand. If you prefer a classic method, make a roux by cooking equal parts butter and flour, then whisking it into the soup. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender to naturally thicken it with the starches from the potatoes. For a gluten-free option, mix a small amount of cornstarch or arrowroot powder with cold water, then stir it into the simmering soup. Each method ensures a thick, creamy consistency while accommodating dietary needs.

How Long Does It Take to Make?

This recipe is designed to be quick and convenient, making it perfect for busy schedules. From start to finish, preparing hash brown potato soup typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes. Sautéing the aromatics and preparing the roux takes only a few minutes, while simmering the soup with hash browns ensures it cooks quickly. Using pre-shredded hash browns significantly reduces prep time compared to fresh potatoes, making this a go-to recipe for weeknight meals or last-minute gatherings.

Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?

Yes, this recipe can be adapted for a slow cooker with minimal effort. To prepare hash brown potato soup in a slow cooker, combine the broth, hash browns, diced onions, and seasonings in the pot. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally. Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the dairy ingredients such as cream, sour cream, and shredded cheese during the final 30 minutes of cooking. Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to develop beautifully while freeing up your time for other tasks.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Dish

Hash brown potato soup stands out as a versatile, comforting, and easy-to-make dish that suits any occasion. Its creamy texture, rich flavor, and customizable nature make it a favorite among home cooks and food lovers alike. Whether you prefer a classic version or one with a creative twist, this soup is guaranteed to satisfy.

With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Plus, the ability to store and reheat it means you can enjoy its comforting flavors for days.

Incorporating hash brown potato soup into your recipe collection ensures a go-to meal that never fails to impress. Try it today, and you’ll understand why it’s beloved by so many!