Craving a warm, comforting bowl of potato soup but short on time and ingredients? This incredibly simple 4-ingredient potato soup recipe, using frozen hash browns and sour cream, is your answer! It's surprisingly delicious, creamy, and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Let's dive into this incredibly easy recipe!
What You'll Need:
This recipe relies on pantry staples and readily available frozen ingredients, making it exceptionally convenient. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen hash browns, not shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 1 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste (optional additional seasonings listed below)
Instructions:
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Follow these steps for a perfectly creamy potato soup:
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Combine ingredients: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the frozen hash browns and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
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Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the hash browns are tender and easily mashed.
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Blend (optional): For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup to your desired consistency. Alternatively, carefully transfer portions of the soup to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Always vent a blender when blending hot liquids to avoid burns.
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Stir in sour cream: Remove from heat and gently stir in the sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve: Ladle into bowls and enjoy immediately!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This section addresses common questions people have about this simple potato soup recipe.
Can I use different types of frozen potatoes?
While frozen hash browns work best for this recipe due to their texture and pre-seasoning, you can experiment with other frozen potato products. Keep in mind that diced potatoes may require a slightly longer cooking time. Avoid using shredded hash browns as they will likely become mushy.
What if I don't have sour cream?
Sour cream adds creaminess and tang. If you don't have sour cream, you can substitute with plain Greek yogurt or crème fraîche for a similar result. The taste will be slightly different, but still delicious!
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like diced onions, carrots, or celery for added flavor and nutrition. Add them along with the hash browns and broth. Consider adding them at the beginning of the cooking process, as they will take longer to cook than the frozen hash browns.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
This soup is best enjoyed fresh, as the hash browns can become slightly mushy if stored for too long. However, you can prepare it ahead of time, reheat gently, and stir in the sour cream just before serving.
What are some other seasonings I can add?
To enhance the flavor profile, consider adding a dash of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or dried chives. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a touch of heat for those who prefer a spicier soup. Experiment and find your favorite flavor combinations!
Beyond the Basics: Elevate Your 4-Ingredient Potato Soup
While this recipe is delicious in its simplicity, there are several ways to elevate it further:
- Bacon bits: Crumble cooked bacon and sprinkle it on top for a salty, smoky flavor.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese, or your favorite cheese, adds another layer of creaminess and flavor.
- Green onions: Chopped green onions as a garnish add a fresh, vibrant touch.
- Roasted Garlic: Adding a clove or two of roasted garlic will dramatically enhance the savory notes.
This simple 4-ingredient potato soup is a perfect example of how delicious and satisfying a meal can be without compromising on flavor or ease of preparation. Enjoy!
