Hash Brown Potato Soup

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Hash Brown Potato Soup is one of those comforting dishes that, when made, brings warmth and coziness to any kitchen. Growing up, I remember cold winter nights where my family would gather around the dinner table, bowls filled with steaming soup. This particular recipe is a delightful mix of creamy, cheesy goodness with the heartiness of hash browns. It’s perfect for anyone looking to whip up a quick meal, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just enjoying a cozy night in.

What Makes This Recipe Special

If you’re on the fence about trying this Hash Brown Potato Soup, let me share a few compelling reasons to dive right in. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare—perfect for weeknight dinners after a long day. With just a handful of ingredients readily available in your pantry or freezer, this hearty soup is budget-friendly and kid-approved, making it a win for busy families. Plus, it can serve as a comforting dish during chilly weather or as a great appetizer for holiday gatherings.

"This soup is my new go-to for chilly nights! It’s creamy, cheesy, and incredibly filling. My kids couldn’t get enough!" — A happy home cook

Preparing Hash Brown Potato Soup

Making this delicious soup is a breeze! In just a few simple steps, you can have a rich and creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Simply gather your ingredients, combine them in a pot, and let the stove do the work. Here’s a quick overview of how this dish comes together:

1. Combine the frozen hash browns, onion, chicken broth, and cream of chicken soup in a pot.
2. Cook until the hash browns are tender.
3. Stir in the butter and cheese until melted.
4. Add the sour cream, salt, and pepper for that creamy finish.

What You’ll Need

Before you dive into making this soup, here’s the complete list of ingredients:

• 1 (32-ounce) package frozen hash brown potatoes
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 (14.5-ounce) cans of chicken broth
• 1 (10.75-ounce) can of cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• Optional toppings: bacon, green onions, fresh parsley

Feel free to substitute the cream of chicken soup with a gluten-free version for dietary needs or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

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Let’s bring this soup to life! Here’s how to do it:

1. In a large pot, combine the frozen hash brown potatoes, diced onion, chicken broth, and cream of chicken soup.
2. Add the butter, setting the pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally as the mixture heats up.
3. Cook for approximately 15-20 minutes until the hash brown potatoes are tender.
4. Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt fully into the soup.
5. Mix in the sour cream, salt, and pepper until everything is well blended and heated through.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serving Hash Brown Potato Soup is where you can really get creative! Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, or fresh parsley for an added layer of flavor and color. For a complete meal, consider pairing the soup with a side salad or buttery garlic bread. It also makes a warming starter for holiday dinners!

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Storing leftovers is simple. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can stay in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. Always reheat to at least 165°F to ensure food safety.

Helpful Cooking Tips

To enhance the flavors of your soup, consider sautéing the diced onion in a bit of butter before adding other ingredients. This simple step caramelizes the onion and amplifies its sweetness. Also, if you want a thinner soup, you can always add more chicken broth to your liking.

Creative Twists

Feel free to get adventurous with this recipe! You can add cooked ham or shredded rotisserie chicken for increased heartiness. For a spicy kick, consider throwing in a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. You could also switch up the cheese to pepper jack for a flavorful twist.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to make this soup?

The total time for preparing Hash Brown Potato Soup is about 30 minutes start to finish.

Can I substitute the chicken broth?

Absolutely! You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, or even a homemade stock if you have it on hand.

Can this soup be frozen?

Yes! It freezes well, but be sure to cool it completely before storing. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

How do I reheat the soup properly?

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, or in the microwave until heated thoroughly, ideally reaching 165°F.

By embracing this Hash Brown Potato Soup recipe, you’re not just creating a meal—you’re crafting a bowl of nostalgia and warmth that friends and family can gather around. Enjoy!