Easy Potato Soup With Frozen Hash Browns Recipe

Potato soup is a comfort food that offers both warmth and heartiness, perfect for any chilly evening or when you’re craving something soothing. This easy potato soup with frozen hash browns recipe makes it even simpler to whip up a delicious, creamy bowl of soup in no time. Thanks to the convenience of frozen hash browns, the cooking process becomes more efficient without sacrificing flavor or texture. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to serve at a cozy gathering, this recipe has got you covered.

In this post, we’ll explore every detail about this soup-how to make it, the ingredients you need, and some expert tips to make sure it turns out perfectly. We’ll also discuss possible variations, so you can personalize it to your preferences. So, let’s dive in and get ready for some serious comfort food magic!

Easy Potato Soup With Frozen Hash Browns Recipe

This recipe is one of those delightful ones where everything just comes together with minimal effort. The beauty of it is in its simplicity-using frozen hash browns speeds up the process, cutting out the need to peel and chop fresh potatoes, while still delivering that classic potato soup experience. The end result is a rich, creamy, and savory soup that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients Needed

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

• Frozen Hash Browns (about 24 oz): These are your shortcut to perfectly diced potatoes. They’ll melt into the soup and provide that classic starchy creaminess without the hassle of peeling and chopping.
• Butter (4 tbsp): For sautéing and adding richness. Butter makes everything better, and it’s essential in creating that smooth, velvety base.
• Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds sweetness and depth to the soup. Onions provide a savory base that really enhances the flavor of the potatoes.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): A little garlic goes a long way, infusing the soup with an irresistible aroma and bold taste.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth (4 cups): This liquid forms the foundation of your soup. Chicken broth is commonly used, but for a vegetarian version, vegetable broth is just as delicious.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): For richness and creaminess. This is where the soup gets that velvety, luxurious texture.
• Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Optional but highly recommended! The cheese gives the soup a gooey, melty texture and a sharp, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the potatoes.
• Salt (to taste): Essential to bring out all the flavors and balance the richness of the soup.
• Black Pepper (to taste): A pinch of black pepper adds a subtle kick, enhancing the overall taste.
• Green Onions (for garnish, optional): A fresh, crisp garnish that adds a nice contrast to the creamy soup, plus a bit of color.

Cooking Instructions

Making this easy potato soup with frozen hash browns is a straightforward process. Here’s how to do it:

1. Sauté The Aromatics

   • In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the diced onion. Cook the onion for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

2. Add The Frozen Hash Browns

   • Now it’s time to add your frozen hash browns directly into the pot. No need to thaw them. Stir to combine with the onions and garlic, letting them cook for about 2 minutes. This will help the potatoes start to break down and absorb some of the flavors.

3. Pour In The Broth

   • Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and starting to break apart.

4. Blend For Creaminess

   • If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup right in the pot. If you don’t have one, you can carefully transfer half the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and then return it to the pot. This will give you that creamy, velvety consistency. Skip this step if you like a chunkier soup!

5. Finish With Cream And Cheese

   • Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is well combined and the soup is heated through.

6. Season And Serve

   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.

Ingredient Insights

• Frozen Hash Browns: These are a game-changer for time-strapped cooks. They’re pre-cut, pre-cooked, and often come in perfectly uniform pieces, so you don’t have to worry about uneven cooking. The starches in hash browns break down beautifully, giving the soup its signature creamy texture.
• Heavy Cream: This ingredient is crucial for achieving that ultra-creamy, restaurant-style potato soup. You could swap it with milk for a lighter version, but it won’t deliver the same richness. If you prefer a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or oat cream as alternatives.
• Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar’s sharpness contrasts nicely with the creamy broth, and it melts beautifully into the soup. For a more gourmet touch, try using Gruyère or a sharp white cheddar.
• Onions and Garlic: These two form the aromatic base of most savory dishes, and potato soup is no exception. They help build layers of flavor and give the soup a deep, savory undertone.

Expert Tips

• To thicken the soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, try mashing some of the hash browns directly in the pot with a potato masher. This will release more starch and help thicken the liquid. Another option is to use a bit of cornstarch or flour to thicken the soup, though this will alter the texture slightly.
• Cheese Choices: While cheddar is the classic choice, you can get creative with different cheeses. Gruyère or even a smoky gouda can add a unique twist. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well.
• Adding Protein: For extra protein, try tossing in cooked bacon bits, shredded rotisserie chicken, or crumbled sausage. It’ll turn your soup into a more substantial meal.
• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. It adds a nice layer of complexity to the flavor.
• Slow Cooker Method: If you want to make this soup ahead of time, it’s easy to throw everything into a slow cooker. Just toss in the hash browns, onion, garlic, broth, and some seasonings. Let it cook on low for 6 hours, then add the cream and cheese at the end.

Recipe Variations

Potato soup is one of those recipes that can be endlessly customized. Here are some variations to consider:

• Loaded Potato Soup: Top your soup with crumbled bacon, sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions for a ’loaded’ effect.
• Vegan Version: Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream and use vegetable broth. Opt for a dairy-free cheese or skip it altogether.
• Spicy Potato Soup: Add chopped jalapeños, a bit of chili powder, or smoked paprika to give the soup a smoky, spicy kick.
• Chunky Potato Soup: If you prefer a chunkier texture, skip the blending step entirely. You’ll get big, hearty bites of potato in every spoonful.

Final Words

This easy potato soup with frozen hash browns is perfect for anyone looking to create a delicious, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a recipe that delivers comfort in every spoonful, whether you’re eating it for lunch, dinner, or even as a starter for a larger meal. With minimal ingredients and easy prep, it’s a great go-to dish for busy days or lazy nights when you want something warm and filling.