Loaded Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, full of creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and topped with all the classic baked potato fixings. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly days, offering warmth and flavor in every spoonful. It’s easy to make and bound to become a family favorite.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Toppings (Optional)
- Chopped green onions
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Crumbled bacon
- Sour cream
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add the olive oil to the pot with the bacon fat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
Add the chicken broth, diced potatoes, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks of potato for texture. Alternatively, you can transfer half of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
Step 5: Add Cream, Cheese, and Sour Cream
Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream until everything is well combined and the cheese is melted. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle the Loaded Potato Soup into bowls and top with chopped green onions, extra cheese, crumbled bacon, and sour cream if desired. Serve warm.
Cook Notes
- Potato Type: Russet potatoes work best for this recipe as they break down nicely and give the soup a creamy texture.
- Texture Preference: For a chunkier soup, blend only a small portion of the potatoes. For a smoother consistency, blend more of the soup.
- Cheese: For extra creaminess, use sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor, or mix in some Monterey Jack.
Variations
1. Spicy Loaded Potato Soup
Add 1 diced jalapeño to the onion mixture for extra heat, or stir in 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper with the spices.
2. Vegetarian Loaded Potato Soup
Replace the bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smoky flavor, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
3. Broccoli Potato Soup
Add 1 cup chopped broccoli to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking for an added veggie boost.
Serving Suggestions
- Bread Bowl: Serve in a bread bowl for an extra comforting meal.
- Crusty Bread: Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the creamy soup.
- Side Salad: Serve alongside a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! Loaded Potato Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little broth if it has thickened.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Loaded Potato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup. However, the texture may change slightly due to the potatoes and dairy. Let it cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Loaded Potato Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you’re craving something cozy and satisfying. Packed with flavor, cheese, and all the toppings you love, this soup is sure to warm you up and make your taste buds happy. Try it out and enjoy a delicious bowl of comfort!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!
