Hash Brown Potato Soup Recipe: A Comforting, Easy Dish

Introduction to Hash Brown Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a warm, creamy, and hearty soup that’s perfect for cold nights or when you need a quick meal, this hash brown potato soup recipe is exactly what you need. It’s simple to prepare, uses frozen hash browns as the main ingredient, and can be customized with various toppings and flavors. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this soup will quickly become a favorite.

This recipe requires just a few basic ingredients that you likely already have on hand, and in under an hour, you’ll have a comforting bowl of hash brown potato soup ready to enjoy. If you’re planning a festive occasion, you might also enjoy adding a little flare with desserts like Christmas tree cakes: a complete guide.

You can easily explore calories in a Christmas tree cake: a complete breakdown if you’re conscious about what to pair with this hearty soup.

Ingredients for Hash Brown Potato Soup

The great thing about this easy hash brown potato soup recipe is that the ingredients are simple, affordable, and easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 bag of frozen hash browns (shredded or diced)
4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup of heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Bacon bits (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

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Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hash Brown Potato Soup

Making hash brown potato soup is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps to whip up a pot of this delicious comfort food:

1. Prepare the Ingredients

If using frozen hash browns, allow them to thaw slightly for easier cooking. If you’re using fresh potatoes, peel and dice them into small pieces.

2. Cook the Base

In a large pot, sauté the diced onion and garlic over medium heat until softened and translucent.
Add the broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.

For a fun twist, you could consider using this soup as a side dish to a delicious cranberry sauce. Check out this cranberry sauce recipe with Ocean Spray for more ideas!

3. Add the Hash Browns

Stir in the thawed hash browns (or fresh potatoes), and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes. This will allow the potatoes to cook through and soften.
For a creamier consistency, you can partially mash the potatoes.

If you’re interested in learning more about the best potatoes for soup, check out this helpful guide.

4. Add the Cream and Cheese

Stir in the cream and cheese (if using), and allow the soup to thicken. If you’d like a lighter option, you can substitute the heavy cream with milk.

If you’re looking for ways to adjust the thickness of your soup, there’s a great guide on thickening soups without using flour.

5. Finish and Serve

Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, and let it simmer for another 5–10 minutes. Once done, garnish with bacon bits, extra cheese, or chives if desired. Serve warm.

Pro Tips for the Best Hash Brown Potato Soup

Use the Right Hash Browns

First and foremost, choosing the right type of hash browns is key. You can use either shredded or diced hash browns, depending on the texture you prefer. Shredded hash browns create a creamier soup, as they break down more easily during cooking. On the other hand, diced hash browns provide a chunkier, heartier texture.

Add Depth with Seasonings

To take your soup from good to great, consider experimenting with additional seasonings. While basic salt and pepper are essential, incorporating more complex flavors can make a huge difference. For example, adding a touch of smoked paprika gives the soup a subtle smoky flavor that pairs well with the creaminess of the potatoes. Similarly, herbs like thyme or rosemary bring a fragrant, earthy quality that complements the richness of the soup.

Control the Consistency

Another important tip involves achieving the ideal consistency. If your soup turns out too thick, you can easily thin it by adding more broth, cream, or milk. Simply stir in the liquid a little at a time until you reach your desired texture. Conversely, if your soup is too thin, let it simmer for a bit longer to reduce and thicken. You could also whisk in a small amount of cornstarch or flour, creating a slurry with water before adding it to the soup. This will help thicken the soup without changing its flavor.

Recipe Variations for Hash Brown Potato Soup

Loaded Hash Brown Potato Soup

Add toppings like sour cream, extra cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and chives to make a loaded version.

Healthy Hash Brown Potato Soup

Swap out the cream for a low-fat milk or a plant-based milk to reduce calories. You can also add vegetables like carrots or spinach.

Vegan Hash Brown Potato Soup

Use vegetable broth, dairy-free cheese, and a plant-based milk to create a vegan version.

Slow Cooker Hash Brown Potato Soup

Add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours, or on high for 3–4 hours.

How to Store and Reheat Hash Brown Potato Soup

Properly storing and reheating hash brown potato soup ensures that you can enjoy this delicious comfort food for several days after making it. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or saving leftovers for a cozy lunch, understanding the best storage and reheating methods is essential.

Storing Hash Brown Potato Soup in the Refrigerator

To begin, if you plan on eating the soup within the next few days, storing it in the refrigerator is the easiest and most convenient option. After cooking, allow the soup to cool down to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. Cooling the soup first is crucial, as placing hot soup directly into the fridge can raise the refrigerator’s temperature, affecting other food items.

Once cooled, you can store the hash brown potato soup in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s a good idea to label the container with the date, so you know exactly how long it’s been stored. The creamy consistency of the soup tends to hold up well in the fridge, and the flavors often deepen over time, making the soup even more delicious on the second or third day.

Reheating Hash Brown Potato Soup

Reheating in the Microwave

If you’re reheating just a single serving, the microwave is a quick and easy option. First, transfer the soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Then, heat it in short intervals—about 1 to 2 minutes—stirring in between to ensure the soup heats evenly. This also helps to prevent the cream from curdling, as dairy can sometimes separate if overheated. Once the soup is thoroughly heated, you can enjoy it immediately. Just be sure to check the temperature to avoid any cold spots.

Reheating on the Stovetop

For larger portions, reheating on the stovetop is the preferred method. Start by pouring the soup into a saucepan and setting the heat to medium-low. Stir the soup frequently to ensure it heats evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan. If the soup has thickened during storage, you can add a splash of broth, water, or even a little cream to thin it out while maintaining its rich flavor.

Nutritional Information and Serving Sizes

Calories and Macronutrients Breakdown A typical serving of hash brown potato soup (approximately 1 ½ cups) contains about 300 to 400 calories. This calorie count can vary depending on the specific ingredients used, such as the type of cream, cheese, or broth. The base ingredients of hash browns and potatoes contribute to the carbohydrate content, while dairy and any added toppings (like cheese or bacon) contribute fats and protein.
Carbohydrates: Potatoes are naturally rich in carbohydrates, which make up a significant portion of the calories in this soup. Each serving typically contains around 40-50 grams of carbohydrates, depending on the portion size and the type of potatoes or hash browns used. If you’re following a low-carb diet, you can reduce the carb content by substituting some of the potatoes with a lower-carb vegetable, such as cauliflower.
Protein: While hash brown potato soup isn’t naturally high in protein, certain variations can increase the protein content. Adding ingredients like shredded chicken, sausage, or extra cheese can boost the protein to around 10-15 grams per serving. For those looking for a vegetarian source of protein, consider adding beans or a plant-based protein alternative to the soup.
Fats: The fat content of the soup largely depends on the type of dairy products used. Full-fat heavy cream and cheese will result in higher fat levels, typically around 15-25 grams of fat per serving. However, if you opt for low-fat milk or skip the cheese altogether, you can reduce the fat content significantly, bringing it down to 5-10 grams of fat. For those on a low-fat diet, consider using plant-based milk or simply reducing the amount of cream.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the Wrong Type of DairyIf you prefer a rich and creamy soup, then heavy cream is undoubtedly the best choice. However, if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can easily substitute heavy cream with whole milk. Alternatively, for those who follow a dairy-free diet or simply want a plant-based option, you can also opt for a substitute like almond milk or another dairy-free alternative. This way, you can customize the soup to meet your dietary needs without compromising on flavor or texture.

Overcooking the Potatoes: Cooking the potatoes for too long can, unfortunately, make them mushy, which ultimately leads to an undesirable texture. Therefore, it’s important to keep a close eye on the cooking time to ensure the potatoes retain their perfect consistency. Additionally, overcooking the potatoes can also affect the overall flavor of the soup, so it’s always best to err on the side of caution. By carefully monitoring the cooking process, you can achieve that ideal balance of tender yet firm potatoes.

Not Adding Enough Seasoning: Potatoes tend to absorb salt, so make sure to taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed.

FAQs for Hash Brown Potato Soup Recipe

1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes! If you prefer to use fresh potatoes, simply peel and dice them into small pieces before adding them to the soup. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat before serving.

3. What should I do if my soup is too thick?

If your soup is too thick, simply add more broth or cream to thin it out. You can also use water if you’re looking to reduce the calorie count.

4. Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Yes, you can easily incorporate vegetables like carrots, celery, or even spinach to boost the nutritional value.

5. Is this soup gluten-free?

The base recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, if you choose to thicken the soup with flour, you’ll need to use a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hash brown potato soup is truly the ultimate comfort food, offering a creamy, hearty, and flavorful experience that can be enjoyed any time of year. Whether you’re preparing this dish as a cozy dinner for a chilly evening or as a quick meal on a busy weeknight, the versatility of this recipe makes it an easy go-to option. Moreover, by following the step-by-step guide, you can effortlessly create a rich, satisfying soup that is sure to please your family and friends.

As you explore the various recipe variations, it becomes clear just how adaptable this dish can be. For instance, if you’re looking for something indulgent, the loaded hash brown potato soup is the perfect choice, while the vegan or healthy versions provide options for those following specific dietary preferences. Furthermore, by adjusting ingredients like cream and cheese, or adding extra vegetables, you can create a soup that meets your nutritional goals without sacrificing any of the rich, comforting flavors.

Store and Reheat with Ease

Additionally, knowing how to properly store and reheat the soup means you can enjoy it for several days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers. Whether you prefer to refrigerate or freeze, this soup maintains its creamy consistency and flavor with just a few simple steps.

In the end, the simplicity, flexibility, and rich flavors of hash brown potato soup make it an unbeatable option for home cooks of any skill level. So why not give this delicious recipe a try? With endless possibilities for customization and tips for perfecting the soup, you’re sure to find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again!