Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this creamy, dreamy hash brown potato soup! This recipe takes the beloved flavors of crispy hash browns and transforms them into a hearty, satisfying soup perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner. It's one of those easy recipes that feels like a homemade hug in a bowl, ideal for busy weeknights and impressing guests alike. Let's dive into this comforting classic!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses common pantry ingredients, making it a perfect choice for those looking for quick dinner ideas or healthy meals without sacrificing flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup milk (or cream for extra richness)
- 1 cup frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Easy as 1, 2, 3!
Get started:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Building the base:
- Add the diced potatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Adding the creamy hash brown goodness:
- Stir in the thawed hash browns, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
Serving suggestions:
- Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh chives, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Hash Brown Potato Soup
- Don't overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes will become mushy. Aim for tender but not falling-apart potatoes.
- Use good quality broth: The broth forms the base of your soup, so using a flavorful broth will significantly impact the final taste.
- Adjust seasonings to your liking: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and thyme to your preference. A dash of your favorite hot sauce can also add a delicious kick!
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner the following day.
Variations: Spice things up!
- Bacon or sausage: Add cooked bacon or sausage crumbles for extra savory flavor.
- Cheesy delight: Experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Creamy variations: Swap the milk for heavy cream or half-and-half for an even richer and creamier soup.
- Veggie boost: Add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 8-10 grams
- Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35 grams
This delicious and easy hash brown potato soup is a perfect example of healthy meals and delicious dishes achievable with simple ingredients and minimal effort. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of homemade cooking, perfect for those nights when you want something warm, comforting, and incredibly satisfying. Enjoy!