When it comes to cozy, satisfying meals, nothing beats a hearty bowl of soup. This hash brown potato soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor—plus it’s made simple thanks to frozen hash brown potatoes. That means no peeling or chopping, just dump, stir, and simmer your way to a delicious meal that will warm the whole family.
This recipe is proof that an easy homemade soup can feel like a special dinner without taking hours in the kitchen. With just a few pantry staples like broth, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheese, and sour cream, you can transform frozen hash brown potatoes into a velvety base. Add some toppings like bacon, green onions, and extra cheese, and you’ll have a meal everyone will want seconds of.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything required to make this creamy potato soup:
- 1 bag frozen cubed hash brown potatoes (about 30 ounces)
- 1 small onion, finely diced (or 1 teaspoon onion powder if you prefer smooth soup)
- 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces)
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (shred from a block for best melting)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional toppings: cooked bacon bits, sliced green onions, extra cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.
How to Make Hash Brown Potato Soup
Step 1: Combine the Base
In a large pot over medium heat, add the frozen hash brown potatoes, diced onion, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and butter. Stir gently and let the butter melt into the mixture.
Step 2: Simmer Until Tender
Bring the pot to a gentle simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The potatoes should become tender and easy to pierce with a fork. For a creamier texture, lightly mash some of the potatoes with a spoon against the side of the pot.
Step 3: Add the Creamy Ingredients
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely and the soup is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes. Bacon, extra cheese, and green onions make this meal extra special for dinner.
Tips & Variations
- Different Hash Browns: Use cubed or shredded hash brown potatoes, depending on the texture you like. O’Brien-style hash browns (with bell peppers and onions) add extra flavor.
- Broth Options: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth if you want a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Cheese Swap: Try Monterey Jack, white cheddar, or even pepper jack for a new flavor.
- Healthier Choices: Replace sour cream with plain Greek yogurt and use reduced-fat cheese to lighten it up.
- Slow Cooker Method: Add all the ingredients (except sour cream and cheese) to your crock pot and cook on low for 4–5 hours. Stir in the sour cream and cheese before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy potato soup is hearty enough to stand on its own for dinner, but pairing it with a crusty bread loaf or warm dinner rolls takes it to the next level. Bread bowls are another fun serving option that soaks up all that rich, cheesy broth.
You can also serve it alongside a simple green salad to balance out the richness of the dish. And don’t forget the toppings—crispy bacon bits and extra cheese really make this recipe shine.
Storage and Leftovers
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if it’s too thick. This hash brown potato soup reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or next-day lunches after a hearty dinner.
Final Thoughts
This creamy hash brown potato soup is the perfect answer to busy nights when you want a comforting dinner that doesn’t require hours of work. Frozen potatoes make the recipe fast and easy, while cheese and sour cream give it a rich, velvety texture that’s impossible to resist. Whether you serve it with bread, top it with bacon, or enjoy it plain, this soup is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
