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Creamy Hashbrown Potato Soup - Cozy, Comforting, and Easy

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced (optional but recommended)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bag (28–32 oz) frozen shredded hashbrown potatoes (no need to thaw)
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup milk or half-and-half (for extra richness, use heavy cream)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (adds tang and body)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for depth)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar (plus more for topping)
  • Cooked bacon, crumbled (optional topping)
  • Sliced green onions or chives (for garnish)

Method
 

  1. Sauté the aromatics. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
  2. Add the hashbrowns. Pour in the frozen shredded hashbrowns. Stir to coat with the aromatics and butter. Cook for 2–3 minutes to take the chill off.
  3. Pour in the broth. Add the chicken or vegetable broth, salt, pepper, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir well, then bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Simmer and thicken. Cover partially and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The potatoes will soften and release starch, naturally thickening the soup.
  5. Add dairy. Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the milk or half-and-half and the sour cream. Warm through slowly. Do not boil after adding dairy, or it may split.
  6. Finish with cheese. Stir in the shredded cheddar until fully melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Serve. Ladle into bowls and top with more cheddar, bacon, and chives. Serve with crusty bread or a simple salad.