Description
This cozy, creamy Hash Brown Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort-in-a-bowl — rich, velvety, and layered with savory flavor. Using frozen hash browns makes it effortless but still feels like a slow-simmered, homemade soup. Perfect for chilly nights, busy weekdays, or when you need a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients
Sauté Base
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Soup
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 (30–32 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns (not thawed)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
Finishing
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Optional Garnish
- Extra cheese
- Sliced green onions
- Crumbled bacon
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add finely diced onion and celery; sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic, taking care not to burn it.
- Combine Base Ingredients: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, then add the frozen shredded hash browns, smoked paprika, dried thyme, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the soup has thickened slightly.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until the cheese melts completely and the soup becomes silky smooth.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra cheese, sliced green onions, or crumbled bacon if desired.
Notes
- Texture Tip: For a thicker, chowder-style soup, mash 1–2 cups of the potatoes in the pot, then stir to combine.
- Flavor Boost: Add ¼ cup finely diced carrots with the onions for extra sweetness, or a splash of hot sauce at the end for warmth.
- Cheese Swap: Use white cheddar or smoked gouda to create a more elevated flavor profile.
- Protein Add-In: Stir in cooked bacon, diced ham, or shredded chicken for a heartier meal.
- Storage: Refrigerate for 3–4 days. Reheat gently on low, adding a splash of broth or milk if the soup thickens. Not recommended for freezing due to dairy texture changes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American / Cozy Comfort
