When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a warm, creamy bowl of Hash Brown Potato Soup. This hearty soup is packed with the rich, savory flavors of potatoes, cheese, and bacon, making it the ultimate cozy meal for chilly days. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing party dish, or just a way to use up leftover hash browns, this soup is a winner. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making this delicious soup, including step-by-step instructions, tips for customization, and why this recipe is a must-try. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Hash Brown Potato Soup
- Comfort in a Bowl: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this soup is the epitome of comfort food.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is perfect for busy nights.
- Versatile: Customize it with your favorite toppings and add-ins.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Both kids and adults will love this hearty and satisfying soup.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and reheat for a quick meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious soup:
For the Soup:
- 4 cups frozen hash browns (shredded or diced)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Toppings:
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sour cream (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, then crumble. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Roux
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic. Stir to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Step 4: Add the Broth and Hash Browns
- Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add the frozen hash browns and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the hash browns are tender.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
- Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Cook until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream.
- Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, comforting goodness!
Tips for Customization
- Add Veggies: Stir in diced carrots, celery, or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and skip the bacon for a vegetarian version.
- Thicker Soup: Add an extra tablespoon of flour or a handful of mashed potatoes to thicken the soup.
- Lighter Version: Use milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.
Why This Recipe Works for AdSense
This Hash Brown Potato Soup recipe is perfect for AdSense because:
- High Engagement: Comfort food recipes, especially soups, attract a lot of attention and keep readers on the page.
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- SEO-Friendly: Keywords like “hash brown potato soup,” “creamy potato soup,” and “easy soup recipes” are highly searchable and can drive organic traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of hash browns?
Yes! Peel and dice 4 cups of potatoes and cook them in the broth until tender.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
3. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes! Freeze the soup (without toppings) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, whole milk, or even evaporated milk as a substitute.
Final Thoughts
This Hash Brown Potato Soup is a creamy, comforting, and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors, hearty texture, and customizable toppings, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out! Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag us. Happy cooking!
