Here’s a detailed recipe that highlights how to make Loaded Potato Soup—a rich, comforting dish perfect for warming up on a chilly day. This creamy soup is loaded with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a blend of sharp and white cheddar cheeses, delivering a deliciously hearty meal.
Loaded Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
- 8 slices bacon, chopped: The bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor and a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Butter provides a rich base for sautéing the onions and garlic, enhancing the overall flavor of the soup.
- 4 large Russet potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed: Potatoes are the star of this dish, offering a starchy, comforting base.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Onion adds a sweet, savory depth to the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic contributes a robust flavor, making the soup more aromatic and flavorful.
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper: This spice adds a subtle heat, balancing the richness of the soup.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Flour is used to thicken the soup, giving it a hearty, creamy texture.
- 2 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth: Broth serves as the liquid base of the soup, adding savory flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients.
- 2 ½ cups whole milk or 2% milk: Milk contributes to the creaminess of the soup while keeping it light.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar offers a tangy, bold flavor that enhances the richness of the soup.
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese: White cheddar adds a milder, creamier flavor that balances the sharpness of the yellow cheddar.
- ½ cup sour cream: Sour cream adds a slight tanginess and creamy texture, making the soup even richer.
- ¼ cup chopped chives: Chives bring a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color as a garnish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: These essential seasonings enhance the overall flavor of the soup.
Instructions:
- Cook the Bacon:
- Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon fat in the pot. Set the bacon aside for later use as a garnish.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- To the bacon fat in the pot, add the unsalted butter and let it melt over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Potatoes:
- Add the cubed potatoes to the pot, stirring them into the onion and garlic mixture. Season with the ground cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the potatoes to absorb the flavors.
- Create the Roux:
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the potato mixture, stirring well to coat the potatoes. Cook the flour for 2 minutes, which will help eliminate any raw flour taste and begin to thicken the soup.
- Add the Liquids:
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Incorporate the Dairy:
- Lower the heat to medium-low and slowly stir in the milk. Continue to simmer the soup for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Be careful not to bring the soup to a boil, as this could cause the milk to curdle.
- Add the Cheeses:
- Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar and white cheddar cheeses to the pot, stirring until they melt completely into the soup. The cheeses will thicken the soup further and add a rich, creamy texture.
- Finish with Sour Cream:
- Stir in the sour cream, which will give the soup a tangy richness and a silky smooth texture. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the crispy bacon, chopped chives, and an extra sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese if desired. The bacon adds a smoky crunch, while the chives provide a fresh contrast to the creamy soup.Serving Suggestions:
This Loaded Potato Soup is perfect for a cozy dinner. Pair it with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal. The soup can also be served in bread bowls for an extra indulgent experience.
Storage Tips:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, to maintain the creamy texture. Avoid boiling the soup as it can cause the dairy to separate.
Enjoy this hearty, comforting Loaded Potato Soup that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it the perfect dish for cold weather or whenever you’re craving something warm and satisfying
