Paula Deen Potato Soup

why make this recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out, Paula Deen’s Potato Soup is an excellent choice. This creamy soup combines rich flavors with the heartiness of potatoes, making it perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings. It’s easy to prepare and can be cooked in a slow cooker or on the stovetop, providing flexibility for any cook. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy classic Southern comfort food that brings everyone to the table.

how to make Paula Deen Potato Soup

Ingredients

• 1 bag (32 oz) Frozen Hash Brown Potatoes (shredded or diced)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)

Directions

1. In a large slow cooker or Crock Pot, add the Frozen Hash Brown Potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and chicken broth. Stir to combine. If using a stovetop, place everything in a large soup pot over medium heat.
2. Stir in the cream of chicken soup, butter, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. These seasonings give depth and balance to the creamy soup base. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours in a Crock Pot. For the stovetop version, simmer gently for about 25 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
3. Once the potatoes are soft and the mixture is thickened, stir in the heavy cream and milk. This step turns your potato soup into a truly creamy soup without curdling or splitting. Let it cook for another 15-20 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely. Then add the sour cream for extra creaminess and tang. The soup will become silky smooth and slightly thicker as it cools.
5. Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. If the texture is too thick, add a splash of milk or broth until you reach your desired consistency. For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes with a spoon or use a handheld blender briefly.
6. Ladle the Paula Deen Potato Soup into warm bowls. Top each serving with crumbled bacon, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, and chopped green onions. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

how to serve Paula Deen Potato Soup

Serve Paula Deen Potato Soup in deep bowls while it’s hot. You can pair it with crusty bread, crackers, or a simple salad for a complete meal. It’s ideal for family dinners or as a comforting dish on cold days. Don’t forget the garnishes like bacon and green onions to add that finishing touch.

how to store Paula Deen Potato Soup

To store leftover soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags and it should keep well for about 2-3 months.

tips to make Paula Deen Potato Soup

• Use fresh ingredients when possible to enhance the soup’s flavor.
• Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences, especially the salt and pepper.
• For extra richness, you can add a bit more heavy cream or cheese.
• If you like a little heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

variation

You can easily customize Paula Deen Potato Soup by adding vegetables like carrots or celery. For a vegetarian version, simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the bacon.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes, but you will need to peel and dice them before adding them to the soup. Adjust the cooking time as needed until the potatoes become tender.

2. Can I make this potato soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

3. Is it possible to make this soup in the oven?
While the best methods are using a slow cooker or stovetop, you can bake it in a Dutch oven, covered, at 350°F until everything is heated through and the flavors are melded, usually about 30-40 minutes.

Enjoy making this hearty and creamy Paula Deen Potato Soup and savor its delicious flavors with friends and family!

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