Introduction:
For all the potato soup enthusiasts craving a delightful and hassle-free meal, look no further! Dive into the comforting flavors of this incredibly easy-to-make potato soup, perfect for cozy nights or busy days. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll enjoy a delicious bowl of creamy goodness that will warm your soul. Let’s embark on a culinary adventure and whip up this delightful potato soup that’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Recipe: Easy Potato Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 bag frozen diced hash browns
- 1 32 oz can chicken broth
- 1 10.5 oz can cream of chicken
- 1 package cream cheese
- 5 oz real bacon pieces
- 1 cup shredded mild cheddar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Crockpot Method:
- In a crockpot, combine the frozen diced hash browns, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, real bacon pieces, shredded mild cheddar, salt, and pepper.
- Cook on high for 3-4 hours until the soup is hot and the ingredients are well combined. Stir occasionally.
- Stove Top Method:
- If using the stove top, let the hash browns thaw out about 3/4 of the way before cooking.
- In a large pot, combine the thawed hash browns, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, real bacon pieces, shredded mild cheddar, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until all the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once cooked, taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese, bacon pieces, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
- Accompany with crackers for added crunch and texture.
FAQs:
- Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
- Yes, you can substitute frozen hash browns with diced fresh potatoes. Simply adjust the cooking time accordingly until the potatoes are tender.
- Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option?
- Absolutely! Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth to make this soup vegetarian-friendly.
- Can I prepare this soup in advance and reheat it later?
- Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve. Add a splash of extra broth if needed to adjust the consistency.
- Can I freeze leftover soup for future meals?
- Yes, you can freeze leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips:
- Customize toppings: Get creative with toppings by adding chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra flavor and visual appeal.
- Experiment with cheese: Try different varieties of cheese such as sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or Gruyere for a unique twist on the classic potato soup.
- Adjust consistency: For a thicker soup, mash some of the cooked potatoes with a potato masher or immersion blender before serving. For a thinner consistency, add more chicken broth until desired thickness is reached.
- Enhance flavor: Amp up the flavor profile by adding a dash of hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or smoked paprika to the soup for an extra kick.