The other night, I found myself at the crossroads between heating up leftovers and making something special. That's when it hit me: comforting, creamy Hash Brown Potato Soup! This dish combines convenience and satisfaction, offering a soul-nourishing meal that's as easy as pie (or should I say, soup?). With only 15 minutes of prep time, you'll have a warm bowl of hearty goodness ready to serve — a perfect remedy for those busy weeknights or chilly evenings. Packed with flavor and a delightful texture, this soup has the power to warm up any gathering, transforming it into a cozy dinner experience. Plus, it's freezer-friendly, letting you savor those homemade vibes anytime! Are you ready to whip up this delicious soup that rekindles the joy of homemade meals?
Why a Hash Brown Potato Soup?
Comforting, this Hash Brown Potato Soup brings the cozy vibes straight to your table with minimal effort. Flavor-packed, the blend of heavy cream, garlic, and thyme creates a rich, savory experience that satisfies every craving. Quick and easy, you’ll be serving this creamy delight in just about 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights! Versatile, it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad, making it a go-to meal option. Plus, crowd-pleasing, this dish is sure to impress family and friends, rekindling the joy of homemade cooking for everyone!
Hash Brown Potato Soup Ingredients
• Get ready to enjoy this creamy, warming delight!
For the Soup
- 4 cups frozen hash browns – perfect for a quick and convenient base.
- 1 cup diced onion – adds depth and sweetness to the soup.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – enhances the savory flavor of the dish.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – gives a subtle kick to balance the creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon salt – essential for bringing together all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – infuses a comforting herbal aroma into the soup.
- ¾ cup heavy cream – adds richness and a velvety texture to your Hash Brown Potato Soup.
For the Garnish
- ¼ cup chopped green onions – offers a fresh, bright finish to every bowl.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hash Brown Potato Soup
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a large pot, combine 4 cups of frozen hash browns, 1 cup of diced onion, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Stir these ingredients together over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, allowing the onions to soften slightly and release their aroma, creating a fragrant base for your Hash Brown Potato Soup.
Step 2: Add Liquid and Boil
Pour in enough water or broth to completely cover the hash brown mixture. Increase the heat and bring it to a vigorous boil, which should take about 5 minutes. Once boiling, check that the mixture is bubbling consistently, and this is the cue to continue to the next step for the best results in your soup.
Step 3: Simmer Until Tender
Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 30-35 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. You'll know it's ready when the hash browns are tender and can be easily mashed – this will give your Hash Brown Potato Soup a smooth consistency nestled with flavor.
Step 4: Stir in Cream
After the hash browns are tender, stir in ¾ cup of heavy cream. Increase the heat slightly and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently. This will enrich your Hash Brown Potato Soup, bringing all the delightful flavors together while achieving a creamy texture that’s simply irresistible.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the hearty soup into bowls while it’s hot. To finish, sprinkle each serving with ¼ cup of chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch. Your Hash Brown Potato Soup is now ready to warm your soul and impress anyone at your table!
Hash Brown Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative and add your own flair to this comforting soup that's sure to warm your heart.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a cashew cream for a creamy texture without dairy.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to bring some heat and depth to your soup.
- Loaded Baked Potato: Top with crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and sour cream to turn your soup into a hearty meal reminiscent of a loaded potato.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and a splash of vibrant color.
- Extra Flavor: Use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water for an additional layer of savory flavor throughout the dish.
- Sweet Potato Twist: Swap half of the hash browns for cubed sweet potatoes for a naturally sweet and colorful twist on the classic.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like chives or parsley as a garnish for a refreshing, aromatic finish.
- Texture Delight: For a chunkier soup, reserve some hash browns and stir them in after cooking, giving it a hearty bite and texture contrast.
Explore these variations to make this Hash Brown Potato Soup a uniquely delicious experience every time you whip it up! And if you're looking for some tasty sides, don’t forget to enjoy it with a simple green salad or a warm grilled cheese sandwich.
Make Ahead Options
These Hash Brown Potato Soup is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weekdays! You can chop and combine the onions, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and dried thyme up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. The frozen hash browns can also be pre-measured and stored in the same bag for quicker preparation. When you're ready to enjoy this comforting soup, simply bring your mixture and the hash browns to a boil with the water or broth, simmer until tender, then stir in the heavy cream. This way, you'll have a flavor-packed dish that is just as delicious as if you made it fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Hash Brown Potato Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Hash Brown Potato Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or cream if needed to maintain the creamy consistency.
Freezer: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. For a quicker option, use a microwave, heating in 30-second intervals until hot.
Airtight Tip: Always ensure containers are tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn and maintain flavor.
What to Serve with Hash Brown Potato Soup
Elevate your cozy meal experience with these delightful pairings that complement the creamy soul-warming flavors of your soup.
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Crusty Bread: A warm, hearty loaf makes the perfect side, ideal for dipping and savoring every bite of the soup.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The melty, buttery goodness of grilled cheese takes comfort food to the next level—try a cheddar mix for some extra zing!
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds a nice contrast, balancing the richness of the soup.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes provide a flavorful roasted touch to your meal.
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Buttery Cornbread: Sweet and crumbly cornbread is a delightful contrast to the creamy texture, making it a comforting sidekick.
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Savory Crackers: Serve crunchy, herbed crackers for an added layer of texture; they bring a satisfying crunch with every spoonful.
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Apple Crisp Dessert: After this hearty meal, a warm apple crisp topped with ice cream is the ideal sweet finish to soothe your soul.
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Red Wine: A glass of light red wine can enhance the savory flavors while adding a touch of elegance to your dinner.
Tips for the Best Hash Brown Potato Soup
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Choose Quality Hash Browns: Look for frozen hash browns made with only potatoes and salt to ensure a pure flavor in your Hash Brown Potato Soup.
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Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the simmering time; overcooking can lead to mushy potatoes, which may affect the desired texture of the soup.
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Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half; just remember to adjust seasoning accordingly.
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Fresh Herbs Matter: Using fresh thyme instead of dried can elevate the flavor profile significantly. Just add it in at the end to retain its aromatic qualities.
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Garnish Creatively: Explore other toppings like crispy bacon, shredded cheese, or croutons for added flavor and texture in your bowl of Hash Brown Potato Soup.
Hash Brown Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best frozen hash browns?
Absolutely! When selecting frozen hash browns, look for brands that contain only potatoes and salt—this ensures a true potato flavor in your Hash Brown Potato Soup. Avoid those with added ingredients or preservatives for the best results!
How long can I store Hash Brown Potato Soup in the fridge?
You can keep your Hash Brown Potato Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring gently and adding a splash of cream or water if necessary to keep it smooth.
Can I freeze my Hash Brown Potato Soup?
Yes, you can! To freeze your soup, let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to serve, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring until warm.
What can I do if the soup is too thick?
No worries! If your Hash Brown Potato Soup ends up a bit thicker than you like, you can easily adjust it. Just add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes to incorporate the liquid.
Are there any allergies I should consider with this recipe?
Very much so. While the ingredients are generally gluten-free, always check your broth and any garnish toppings to ensure they are gluten-free if needed. If you're cooking for someone with dairy allergies, you can replace the heavy cream with a non-dairy milk, adjusting the seasoning since those options can be less rich.
Can I add more ingredients to my Hash Brown Potato Soup?
The more the merrier! Feel free to customize your Hash Brown Potato Soup by adding vegetables such as carrots or celery for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also sprinkle in some cheese or top with crispy bacon bits for a delightful twist!
Hearty Hash Brown Potato Soup That Warms Your Soul
Equipment
- Large pot
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 4 cups frozen hash browns perfect for a quick and convenient base
- 1 cup diced onion adds depth and sweetness
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder enhances the savory flavor
- ½ teaspoon black pepper gives a subtle kick
- 1 teaspoon salt essential for flavor
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme infuses a comforting aroma
- ¾ cup heavy cream adds richness and texture
For the Garnish
- ¼ cup chopped green onions offers a fresh finish
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large pot, combine 4 cups of frozen hash browns, 1 cup of diced onion, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Stir these ingredients together over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in enough water or broth to cover the hash brown mixture. Increase the heat and bring it to a boil, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- After the hash browns are tender, stir in ¾ cup of heavy cream. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle each serving with ¼ cup of chopped green onions.
