Loaded Potato Soup

If you’re craving a dish that wraps you up in warmth and satisfaction, Loaded Potato Soup is the perfect comfort food to dive into. This creamy, hearty soup blends tender potatoes, sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and savory herbs into one delicious bowl that feels like a cozy hug on chilly evenings. Whether you’re seeking a simple dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal, Loaded Potato Soup combines familiar flavors into a rich, velvety experience that brings smiles to the table every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort in a Bowl: Loaded Potato Soup offers a creamy and satisfying texture that warms you from the inside out.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Each element enhances the soup’s richness without any complicated steps.
• Customizable and Versatile: Easily adapted with different toppings, spices, or dairy-free options to suit any preference.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether a quick weeknight meal or a party starter, it fits right in.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the familiar, hearty taste of this loaded classic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses straightforward yet essential ingredients that combine to create a soup rich in texture, flavor, and color. Each component plays a vital role: creamy potatoes create body, bacon adds crunch and savoriness, and sharp cheddar brings depth.

• Russet Potatoes: The perfect starchy base for a creamy, smooth soup texture.
• Bacon: Adds a smoky crunch that balances the creaminess.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Provides the perfect cheese pull and robust flavor.
• Onion and Garlic: Build a flavorful foundation with aromatic notes.
• Chicken Broth: A savory liquid base that keeps the soup light but flavorful.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and velvety smoothness.
• Sour Cream: Gives tang and extra creaminess for a silky finish.
• Chives or Green Onions: For a fresh color contrast and mild onion flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all flavors into harmony.

Variations for Loaded Potato Soup

One of the best parts about Loaded Potato Soup is how effortlessly you can tailor it to your taste or dietary needs. Swap, add, or remove ingredients to create your perfect bowl.

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and use smoked paprika or sautéed mushrooms to add depth.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk or almond milk with dairy-free cheese to keep it creamy.
• Extra Protein: Add shredded chicken or diced ham for a heartier meal.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for some heat.
• Herbal Boost: Fresh thyme or rosemary take this soup to the next flavor level.

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How to Make Loaded Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Bacon

Start by peeling and cubing the russet potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy, then remove and set aside on paper towels to drain excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Using the bacon fat left in the pot, add diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until they are soft and fragrant, which will build a flavorful base for the soup.

Step 3: Simmer Potatoes and Broth

Add the cubed potatoes to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes become fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Blend and Add Creaminess

Using an immersion blender or regular blender in batches, carefully puree part of the soup to create a creamy texture while leaving some potato chunks intact for body. Stir in heavy cream and sour cream until fully combined and creamy.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bacon

Mix sharp cheddar cheese into the warm soup until melted and smooth. Then, crumble a portion of the cooked bacon into the soup for a smoky, savory punch.

Step 6: Season and Garnish

Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra cheddar, bacon, and fresh chopped chives or green onions for a burst of color and flavor.

Pro Tips for Making Loaded Potato Soup

• Use the Right Potato: Russets or Yukon Golds provide the ideal balance of starch and firmness.
• Partial Blending: Blend only half the soup to keep a delightful mix of creamy and chunky textures.
• Cheese Timing: Add cheese off the heat to prevent it from becoming grainy or oily.
• Bacon Upgrade: Cook bacon until extra crispy, then crumble finely to distribute its flavor evenly.
• Fresh Herbs: Add herbs at the end to maintain their vibrant freshness.

How to Serve Loaded Potato Soup

Garnishes

Top Loaded Potato Soup with extra shredded cheddar, crispy bacon bits, chopped chives, and a dollop of sour cream. These garnishes add visual appeal and layers of flavor and texture your guests will love.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or buttery garlic rolls for dipping. For a complete meal, serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun, edible container or in individual mini crocks for guests. For a party, set up a “loaded toppings” bar so everyone can customize their bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Loaded Potato Soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before reheating to recombine any separated ingredients.

Freezing

Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Note that potatoes may alter slightly in texture after freezing, but the flavor remains delicious.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I make Loaded Potato Soup without bacon?

Absolutely! You can omit the bacon for a vegetarian-friendly option or replace it with smoked paprika or crispy mushrooms for a similar smoky flavor.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, substitute heavy cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk and dairy-free cheddar to keep the soup creamy without dairy.

How thick should Loaded Potato Soup be?

The soup should be creamy but not overly thick—think of it as rich and velvety with tender potato chunks throughout for texture.

Can I prepare Loaded Potato Soup in advance?

Yes, the soup actually tastes better the next day as flavors meld. Just refrigerate and gently reheat before serving.

What other toppings work well on Loaded Potato Soup?

Besides the classic cheddar and bacon, try adding sour cream, green onions, chives, crumbled sausage, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika.

Final Thoughts

Loaded Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s both cozy and crave-worthy, perfect for sharing with loved ones on any chilly evening. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and endless customization options, it’s a simple recipe that feels like a special treat. I encourage you to give it a try and enjoy every delicious, hearty spoonful!

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