There’s something truly special about a warm bowl of Loaded Potato Soup that instantly lifts your spirits. As I stir the pot, the aroma of sizzling bacon and sautéed onions fills the air, creating a cozy atmosphere that feels like a hug from the inside out. This comforting recipe, packed with creamy goodness and savory flavors, is a game-changer for any weeknight dinner. What I love most is how quick it is to whip up—perfect for those busy evenings, while still impressing anyone lucky enough to dig in. Plus, this hearty soup is easily customizable; you can elevate it with your favorite toppings, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser. Ready to find out how to create this deliciously satisfying bowl of comfort? Let's dive in!
Why is Loaded Potato Soup so amazing?
Irresistible Comfort: Loaded Potato Soup offers a warm, creamy hug that’s perfect for chilly nights.
Quick & Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep, this recipe fits seamlessly into any busy schedule.
Flavor Explosion: The delightful combination of crispy bacon, savory cheese, and rich cream creates a taste that’s hard to resist.
Customizable Delight: Dress it up with your favorite toppings, such as extra cheddar or green onions, and make it your own!
Crowd-Pleasing Magic: Whether it’s family dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup always leaves everyone wanting more. For more cozy recipes, check out our comforting Chicken and Rice Soup.
Loaded Potato Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
- Bacon – 6 slices, cooked until crispy for that unbeatable savory flavor.
- Unsalted Butter – 4 tablespoons, adds richness and helps enhance the overall creaminess.
- Onion – 1 medium, diced, bringing sweetness and depth to the soup base.
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced, for a fragrant kick that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
- All-Purpose Flour – ¼ cup, to thicken the soup and give it that silky texture.
- Chicken Broth – 3 cups, the flavorful liquid ensuring a rich and hearty taste.
- Russet Potatoes – 4 cups, peeled and diced, they provide the perfect base for this loaded potato soup.
- Heavy Cream – 1 cup, elevates the creaminess to a whole new level.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – 1 cup, for that deliciously gooey and melty texture.
- Sour Cream – ½ cup, adds a delightful tanginess that balances the richness.
- Salt and Pepper – to taste, essential for bringing out all the flavors in your soup.
For the Garnish
- Green Onions – 2, thinly sliced, providing a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
- Additional Cheddar Cheese – for garnish, because who doesn’t love more cheese on their loaded potato soup?
- Additional Chopped Bacon – for garnish, adds an extra touch of crispy goodness on top.
Whip up this cozy Loaded Potato Soup and trust me, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your home!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Loaded Potato Soup
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large pot, over medium heat, cook the 6 slices of bacon until they are crispy, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon and let it drain on a paper towel, crumbling it into small pieces. This crispy bacon will add a delicious savory flavor to your Loaded Potato Soup.
Step 2: Prepare the Base
Next, pour out most of the bacon fat from the pot, leaving approximately 1 tablespoon for flavor. With the remaining fat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in the same pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes, then stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
Step 3: Thicken the Soup
Sprinkle ¼ cup of all-purpose flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to lightly brown the flour. This step helps to thicken your Loaded Potato Soup wonderfully, creating that creamy texture we all crave. Make sure to keep stirring to prevent burning.
Step 4: Add the Broth
Gradually whisk in 3 cups of chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Turn up the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, watching it closely to avoid splatters. This will create a rich base for your soup, filled with the flavors of the sautéed onion and garlic.
Step 5: Incorporate the Potatoes
Once boiling, add 4 cups of peeled and diced russet potatoes to the pot. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily pierce them with a fork, creating a perfect base for your Loaded Potato Soup.
Step 6: Mash the Potatoes
Using a potato masher, lightly mash the potatoes in the pot to your desired consistency. This step adds texture to your Loaded Potato Soup while ensuring it remains creamy and comforting. Take your time to achieve a balance of chunky and smooth, according to your preferences.
Step 7: Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and ½ cup of sour cream into the pot. Add salt and pepper to taste, then continue cooking over low heat until the cheese melts and the soup is heated through. Stir occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Once hot, ladle the Loaded Potato Soup into bowls. Top each serving with crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, and additional shredded cheddar cheese for a delightful finish. This final touch adds fresh crunch and makes your soup even more irresistible.
Make Ahead Options
These Loaded Potato Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to prepare components in advance and save valuable time during busy weeknights. You can pre-cook the bacon and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can chop the onions, mince the garlic, and even peel and dice the potatoes 24 hours ahead, which will help streamline the cooking process. When you're ready to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients and follow the remaining steps to finish your Loaded Potato Soup. This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting, homemade meal just as delicious as if you made it all from scratch on the spot!
What to Serve with Loaded Potato Soup
Warm bread or a crisp salad is all you need to create an unforgettable meal, elevating your comforting bowl of goodness.
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Crusty Bread: The perfect vehicle for scooping up every creamy bite, crusty bread adds delightful texture while complementing the rich flavors of the soup.
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Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad provides a bright contrast with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing that cuts through the soup's creaminess.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery garlic breadsticks enhance the comforting vibe, allowing you to enjoy every mouthful of loaded goodness.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized bites bring nutty flavors and a touch of crunch, making them a nutritious side that balances your soup's richness.
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Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: This unique pairing adds a gourmet touch. The smoky bacon and tender asparagus elevate your dining experience with a delightful flavor mix.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, this comforting sweet-tart treat is a delightful way to round out your meal, offering a satisfying contrast to the savory soup.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of chardonnay enhances the meal with its refreshing notes, creating a beautiful harmony with your loaded potato soup.
Expert Tips for Loaded Potato Soup
Don’t Rush the Bacon: Ensure the bacon is crispy to provide maximum flavor. Cooking it slowly allows the fat to render perfectly.
Avoid Lumpy Soup: When you add the chicken broth, whisk gradually to prevent lumps from forming, ensuring a smooth Loaded Potato Soup.
Right Potato Choice: Use russet potatoes for their creamy texture and ability to hold up well during cooking, enhancing the soup's heartiness.
Monitor the Heat: Keep the heat low when adding cream and cheese to avoid curdling; it ensures a silky, creamy Loaded Potato Soup.
Garnish Generously: Don’t shy away from toppings! Additional cheese, crumbled bacon, and green onions elevate the dish both visually and flavor-wise.
How to Store and Freeze Loaded Potato Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in zip-top bags or airtight containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space for expansion; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating, expect to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore creaminess, as freezing may change the texture slightly in your loaded potato soup.
Portioning: Freeze individual servings for easy, quick meals on busy nights—just grab and go!
Loaded Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this Loaded Potato Soup your own; every spoonful can be a new adventure!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream and sour cream with coconut cream and a dairy-free yogurt. It will still be wonderfully creamy!
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Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to amp up the heat. The spice balances beautifully with the richness of the soup.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms for a deliciously earthy twist. The mushrooms add depth while keeping the dish hearty.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic boost. Their fragrance will elevate the entire soup experience.
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Cheesy Variations: Try different cheeses like Gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist. The meltiness of these cheeses brings new dimensions to each bowl.
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Crunchy Toppings: Swap regular toppings for crispy tortilla strips or fried shallots. Their crunch will provide a delightful textural contrast with the creamy soup.
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Loaded Up: Pour in corn, spinach, or broccoli for added nutrition and color. This variation creates a more vibrant and wholesome soup experience.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika for a subtle depth of flavor. It adds a lovely smokiness that complements the other ingredients splendidly.
As you explore these variations, just remember to enjoy the process and create a comforting bowl that’s perfect for your palate. For more hearty recipes, check out my delightful Chicken and Rice Soup.
Loaded Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of potatoes should I use for Loaded Potato Soup?
Absolutely, russet potatoes are the best choice! Their starchy nature creates a creamy texture and they hold up beautifully in the soup. Plus, they absorb flavors wonderfully, making each spoonful deliciously satisfying.
How long can I store leftovers of Loaded Potato Soup?
You can keep your Loaded Potato Soup in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you reheat, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave until it's warmed through.
Can I freeze Loaded Potato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Loaded Potato Soup! Simply portion it into zip-top bags or airtight containers, allowing about an inch of headspace for expansion. It’s best used within 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What should I do if my Loaded Potato Soup is too thick?
If your soup ends up thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! You can easily thin it out by adding a splash of chicken broth or even a bit of heavy cream until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well and heat it back up!
Are there any dietary considerations for this soup?
Certainly! This Loaded Potato Soup contains dairy and bacon, so it’s important to consider allergies or dietary restrictions. For a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon and use vegetable broth. You can also use dairy-free substitutes for the cream and cheese if needed, and it still tastes delightful!
How can I elevate the flavor of my Loaded Potato Soup?
To enhance the flavor, try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary while the soup simmers! Additionally, a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add a wonderful depth to the soup. Tasting as you go is key, so adjust the seasonings according to your preference!
Creamy Loaded Potato Soup That Will Warm Your Heart
Equipment
- Large pot
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 6 slices Bacon cooked until crispy
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter adds richness
- 1 medium Onion diced
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- ¼ cup All-Purpose Flour for thickening
- 3 cups Chicken Broth flavorful liquid
- 4 cups Russet Potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 cup Heavy Cream for creaminess
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese for gooey texture
- ½ cup Sour Cream adds tanginess
- Salt and Pepper to taste
For the Garnish
- 2 Green Onions thinly sliced
- Additional Cheddar Cheese for garnish
- Additional Chopped Bacon for garnish
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large pot, over medium heat, cook the 6 slices of bacon until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove and crumble.
- Pour out most of the bacon fat, leaving 1 tablespoon. Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in the pot, add diced onion, cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle ¼ cup of all-purpose flour over the mixture, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in 3 cups of chicken broth, bringing to a gentle boil.
- Add 4 cups of peeled and diced russet potatoes. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender.
- Lightly mash the potatoes in the pot for desired consistency.
- Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and ½ cup of sour cream. Add salt and pepper to taste, and heat until cheese melts.
- Ladle soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, and additional cheese.
