Hash Brown Potato Soup for Cozy Nights and Quick Comfort

Last Updated on December 2, 2025 by Souhail

I can’t count how many times I’ve made this hash brown potato soup on chilly New York nights when I needed something quick, cozy, and comforting. The first time I threw it together, it was pure desperation—I had a half-used bag of frozen hash browns, some broth, and a very cold apartment. What came out of that pot was unexpectedly creamy, cheesy, and soul-warming… and it’s been a favorite ever since.

This soup is everything we love about classic potato soup but without all the peeling, chopping, and waiting. Using frozen shredded hash browns is a total game-changer—you get silky, soft potato texture in a fraction of the time. And the best part? It’s endlessly customizable. You can keep it simple or load it up like a baked potato with bacon, sour cream, and green onions.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, snow days, or whenever you need some edible comfort, this soup is hearty, flavorful, and blissfully easy to make. With creamy broth, melty cheese, and all the savory potato goodness, it’s basically comfort in a bowl.

Why You’re Going to Love This Hash Brown Potato Soup

Let’s be honest—potato soup is already a top-tier comfort food. But when you swap in frozen hash browns, something magical happens. You get all the creamy, hearty goodness without the peeling, chopping, and waiting. Here’s why this recipe is an absolute game-changer in your soup rotation:

• It’s Ridiculously Easy. No need to peel potatoes! Frozen hash browns go straight into the pot and cook down into a silky texture that mimics slow-cooked soup.
• One Pot Wonder. Everything happens in one pot. Less cleanup, more time to cozy up on the couch.
• Ready in Under 30 Minutes. Perfect for weeknights when you want something fast, homemade, and satisfying.
• Super Creamy, Super Cozy. Thanks to cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and a splash of milk or cream, this soup is rich, velvety, and totally indulgent.
• Versatile & Customizable. Want to make it vegetarian? Easy. Need it gluten-free? Just watch your broth choice. Want to bulk it up? Add ham, bacon, or veggies.

Make It Your Own:

• Vegetarian: Just use vegetable broth and skip the bacon. Add sautéed mushrooms for umami depth.
• Gluten-Free: Most of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free—just double-check your broth and toppings.
• Low-Fat Option: Swap full-fat dairy for low-fat milk and light cream cheese. Still creamy, still delish.
• Spicy Twist: Stir in diced jalapeños or top with hot sauce for a little kick.

If you’re already a fan of hearty soups like lasagna soup or classic potato soup, this hash brown potato version might just become your new favorite weeknight go-to.

Health Benefits

While it’s definitely a comfort food dish, this soup has some hidden wins:

• Potatoes = potassium and fiber
• Onions and garlic add antioxidants
• Customizable for lower fat with light dairy
• Vegetarian-friendly with the right swaps

How To Make This Delicious Recipe

Hash Brown Potato Soup Recipe

Recipe by Kenza

0.0 from 0 votes

Course: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Calories

390

kcal

A creamy, cheesy, and cozy soup made easy with frozen hash browns. The ultimate comfort food with minimal prep and maximum flavor.

Cook Mode

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Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 small yellow onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 bag frozen shredded hash browns

• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

• 1 block cream cheese, cubed

• 1 cup milk or half-and-half

• 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional toppings: cooked bacon, sour cream, green onions, extra cheese

Directions

• Start by grabbing a large soup pot or Dutch oven—it’s going to be your one-stop shop for this whole recipe. Over medium heat, melt some butter and add diced onions. Sauté them until they’re soft, translucent, and smelling amazing. This gives the soup a flavorful base that feels like it’s been simmering for hours, even though it hasn’t.
• Next, toss in your garlic and stir it around for about 30 seconds. We don’t want it to burn, just enough time to wake it up and let it bloom into the butter.
• Now it’s time to add your frozen shredded hash browns. Yes, straight from the bag. No thawing needed. Pour in the broth and stir it all together. Bring it up to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 15–20 minutes. The potatoes will start to break down, thicken the soup, and create that dreamy texture.
• Once everything is soft and bubbling, stir in the cream cheese. Make sure it’s cubed so it melts evenly. Keep the heat low and stir gently until it’s completely incorporated. Then go ahead and add your milk or half-and-half, and a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese. Let the cheese melt in slowly and turn off the heat once everything is silky and smooth.
• Taste and season with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy here—it’s the finishing touch that brings all the flavors together.
• Ladle into big bowls and load it up with toppings: crispy bacon bits, a dollop of sour cream, green onions, extra cheese—whatever your heart desires.

Notes

• Let the cream cheese come to room temp before adding it—it melts faster and blends better.
• Sharp cheddar adds the most flavor, but mild or Monterey Jack works too.
• For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes with a spoon or blend a portion of the soup.
• Add veggies like corn, peas, or broccoli to bulk it up and sneak in more nutrients.
• Smoked paprika or cayenne can add a subtle kick and color.
• No immersion blender needed! The hash browns break down enough to thicken the soup naturally.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 390kcal
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Protein: 10g

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Let’s Talk Tips for Making It Extra Cozy & Delicious

Making soup seems simple (and it is), but a few little tweaks can take it from “good” to “I need another bowl ASAP.” Here’s how to make sure your hash brown potato soup is restaurant-worthy every single time:

• Use Frozen Hash Browns (Shredded, Not Diced): Shredded hash browns break down beautifully and give the soup a naturally thick and silky texture. Diced ones work too but will give you more chunks.
• Don’t Skip the Cream Cheese: This is what gives the soup its smooth, rich body without needing a roux or flour. Let it melt slowly so it blends in completely.
• Cheddar Is Your Best Friend: Sharp cheddar adds that essential cheesy depth. Grate it fresh for best meltability.
• Low and Slow at the End: Once the cheese and dairy go in, lower the heat. You don’t want it boiling or the dairy could separate.
• Toppings = Flavor Bombs: Crispy bacon, sour cream, green onions, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika will take your soup to the next level.

If you love hearty winter soups like butternut squash soup or pumpkin ravioli in broth, this recipe gives you a creamy contrast that feels just as cozy.

Fun Twists on This Hash Brown Potato Soup

I’ve made this soup so many ways, and it never disappoints. Here are a few tried-and-true variations to mix things up:

Loaded Baked Potato Style

Stir in crispy bacon, a scoop of sour cream, and extra shredded cheddar at the end. Top with chopped green onions. It tastes just like a loaded baked potato in soup form!

Corn & Potato Chowder

Add 1–2 cups of corn (fresh or frozen) and a pinch of thyme. The sweetness of the corn plays beautifully with the savory potatoes.

Broccoli Cheddar Potato

Toss in bite-sized broccoli florets in the last 10 minutes of cooking and increase the cheese a bit. It becomes a mash-up of two classic soups in one bowl.

Chicken & Potato Comfort

Add in shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken to make it a full meal in one pot. Protein-packed and extra satisfying.

Southwest Potato Soup

Stir in a can of green chiles, a pinch of cumin, and top with tortilla strips and avocado for a spicy, Tex-Mex inspired version.

Serving Ideas to Make It Feel Like a Whole Meal

This soup is super filling on its own, but if you want to make it a full spread, here are some ideas to round it out:

• Warm Crusty Bread or Garlic Toast: For dipping and wiping up every last drop.
• Simple Green Salad: Something crisp and acidic like arugula with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.
• Grilled Cheese or Ham & Cheese Melt: A soup and sandwich combo never fails.
• Top It Like a Baked Potato: Bacon bits, sour cream, chives, shredded cheese, or even a few crushed potato chips for crunch.

If you loved the hearty breakfast vibes of the mountain man crock pot breakfast, you’ll enjoy this just as much for brunch!

How to Store and Reheat This Creamy Dream

Hash brown potato soup stores really well, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: It can be frozen, but note that dairy-based soups sometimes separate when thawed. If freezing, skip the cheese and cream cheese until reheating.
• Reheat Gently: Warm on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or milk if it’s too thick.

Fun and Creative Ways to Reuse Leftovers

Got extra soup? Here are some fun ways to reinvent it:

• Make a Potato Casserole: Pour leftovers into a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and cheese, and bake until bubbly.
• Serve Over a Baked Potato: Double the potato fun! Add crispy toppings for texture.
• Use as a Sauce: Thin it out slightly and pour it over roasted chicken or vegetables.
• Breakfast Bowl: Top the warmed soup with a fried or poached egg for a savory morning dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wrapping It Up

So there you have it—your new favorite cozy meal in a bowl. Whether it’s a snowy night, a lazy Sunday, or you just want something that tastes like comfort and warmth, this hash brown potato soup is ready to deliver. It’s simple, hearty, and totally satisfying.

If you loved this recipe, you’ll probably enjoy trying my potato soup for a classic twist, or explore more creative comfort meals like butternut squash soup or lasagna soup.

Let me know if you give this one a try—drop a comment below or tag me on Instagram so I can see your cozy bowls!