Loaded Potato Soup

If you’re craving something warm, hearty, and full of flavor, this Loaded Potato Soup recipe is your new best friend. Packed with tender potatoes, creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and rich textures, Loaded Potato Soup delivers all the comfort you need on chilly evenings. This easy recipe combines classic ingredients into a bowl of pure comfort, making it perfect for cozy nights when you want a satisfying meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate comfort food: Loaded Potato Soup offers a creamy, flavorful experience that warms you from the inside out.
• Simple ingredients: You probably already have everything you need in your kitchen, making it easy to whip up quickly.
• Family-friendly: This soup is loved by kids and adults alike, making it a great option for weeknight dinners.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to match your tastes with added veggies, herbs, or protein.
• Make-ahead friendly: Loaded Potato Soup stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Loaded Potato Soup uses simple, hearty ingredients that come together to create a creamy, satisfying dish. Each component plays a key role in bringing flavor, creaminess, or bite to the soup.

• Potatoes: Russet or Yukon gold potatoes work best for creamy texture and hearty chunks.
• Bacon: Adds a smoky crunch and depth of flavor to every bite.
• Onion: Provides a savory base and aromatic sweetness.
• Garlic: Brings gentle pungency that enhances the overall flavor.
• Chicken or vegetable broth: The liquid base that infuses the potatoes and other ingredients with savory goodness.
• Heavy cream or milk: Adds richness and creaminess to the soup.
• Cheddar cheese: Melts smoothly to give the soup its signature cheesy, gooey texture.
• Butter: Boosts richness and helps saute vegetables perfectly.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to balance all flavors.
• Chopped green onions or chives: Fresh topping that adds a pop of color and mild onion flavor.

Variations for Loaded Potato Soup

One of the best things about Loaded Potato Soup is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to boost nutrition, add new flavors, or keep it dairy-free, this recipe serves as a great base.

• Vegetarian option: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth, adding roasted mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Dairy-free swap: Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative.
• Extra veggies: Add carrots, celery, or corn for more texture and sweetness.
• Spicy kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeños for some heat.
• Herb infusion: Toss in fresh thyme or rosemary during cooking for an earthy aroma.

How to Make Loaded Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing, peeling (if desired), and dicing your potatoes into bite-sized chunks. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Cook the bacon until crispy and set aside, reserving the bacon fat.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, melt butter or use reserved bacon fat and sauté onions until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

Add diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine. Pour in broth until just covering the potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Mash and Blend

Use a potato masher or immersion blender to partially mash the potatoes right in the pot. Leaving some chunks adds delightful texture while thickening the soup naturally.

Step 5: Finish with Cream and Cheese

Stir in heavy cream (or milk) and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook on low, stirring frequently, until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy and smooth.

Step 6: Add Bacon and Season

Mix in crisp bacon pieces, reserving a bit for garnish. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.

Pro Tips for Making Loaded Potato Soup

• Choose the right potato: Russet potatoes yield a fluffier texture, while Yukon gold provides creaminess.
• Don’t over-blend: Leaving some potato chunks improves mouthfeel and prevents a gluey soup.
• Add cheese gradually: Stir cheese slowly on low heat to avoid curdling or clumping.
• Reserve bacon fat: Use reserved bacon fat to sauté onions for added smoky depth.
• Adjust thickness: Thin with extra broth or milk if too thick, or simmer longer to thicken.

How to Serve Loaded Potato Soup

Garnishes

Top your soup with crispy bacon bits, shredded cheese, dollops of sour cream, and chopped green onions or chives for color and extra flavor layers.

Side Dishes

Serve with crusty bread, homemade garlic knots, or fresh garden salad to complement the richness of the soup.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in mini bread bowls or garnish with crumbled crackers and smoked paprika for added crunch and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Loaded Potato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring it stays fresh and flavorful.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup for up to 2 months, but it’s best to freeze before adding cream and cheese, then stir those in when reheating.

Reheating

Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching and help cheese melt evenly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen potatoes for Loaded Potato Soup?

While fresh potatoes are ideal for texture, frozen diced potatoes can be used in a pinch; just adjust cooking time accordingly as they thaw faster.

Is Loaded Potato Soup gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your broth and bacon are confirmed gluten-free—always double-check labels to be safe.

Can I make Loaded Potato Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook the potatoes, onions, broth, and aromatics on low for 6-7 hours, then add cream and cheese near the end of cooking.

How can I make this soup thicker?

Partially mashing the potatoes helps thicken the soup; you can also add a small slurry of flour or cornstarch mixed with water if needed.

What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?

Colby jack, Monterey Jack, or even a mild mozzarella work well if you want a different flavor profile or a milder cheese.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a bowl of Loaded Potato Soup that just hits the spot on cozy nights. With its creamy texture, smoky bacon, and cheesy goodness, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to add a comforting classic to their dinner rotation. Give it a go and enjoy the warmth and satisfaction it brings after every spoonful!

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