This creamy loaded potato soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! It features tender potatoes, savory bacon, and a sprinkle of cheese for extra yumminess.
I love how it warms me up on chilly days! Just add a slice of crusty bread, and you’re in for a cozy treat. Who doesn’t enjoy a good soup party? 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds an amazing smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too. You could also skip the meat for a vegetarian version and use olive oil for sautéing.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the best for this soup due to their starchy texture. You could substitute with Yukon Gold for a creamier texture or red potatoes for a bit of color, but remember they might keep their shape more.
Broth: Chicken broth enriches the soup, but vegetable broth is a great substitute for a vegetarian version. Homemade broth can also bring this dish to the next level if you have it on hand!
Cream and Sour Cream: Heavy cream makes it extra rich, but if you’re watching calories, use half-and-half or evaporated milk. Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a tangy twist and added protein!
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but feel free to mix it up! Pepper jack can add a spicy kick, and Monterey Jack will give it a milder taste while keeping it creamy.
How Do You Get That Perfect Creamy Texture?
The key to a creamy potato soup is in the mashing technique. After your potatoes are soft, you have two options to create that perfect balance of creaminess and chunkiness.
- **Mash Some Potatoes**: Use a potato masher to break down some of the potato chunks. This will naturally thicken the soup without making it entirely smooth.
- **Use an Immersion Blender**: If you want to really smooth it out but still have some texture, an immersion blender can blend just enough while leaving some potato pieces.
Try not to blend all the way, as having some hearty chunks in the soup adds richness and a homemade feel. It’s all about finding that balance you love!
Loaded Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups peeled and diced russet potatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 green onions (scallions), sliced, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful loaded potato soup takes about 15 minutes to prep, followed by around 30 minutes of cooking time. So, you’ll spend about 45 minutes total making this delicious and hearty meal, perfect for a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Bacon:
Start by cooking the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. Once cooked, take it out and place it on some paper towels to drain the excess grease. Leave about 1-2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the pot to flavor the soup when you sauté the veggies.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
Next, add the finely chopped onion to the pot with the bacon fat. Sauté it for about 5 minutes until it’s translucent and soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until it smells wonderful.
3. Adding the Potatoes:
Now, throw in your diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Mashing for Creaminess:
Using a potato masher or an immersion blender, mash or blend some of the potatoes in the pot. This will give your soup that creamy texture while still leaving a few chunks for heartiness—yum!
5. Mixing in the Creaminess:
Stir in the milk (or heavy cream), sour cream, and 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy. Don’t forget to season it with salt and black pepper to taste!
6. Serving It Up:
Ladle the comforting soup into bowls, and top each serving with the remaining cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and those vibrant sliced green onions for a dash of freshness.
7. Enjoy Your Delicious Soup!
Serve your loaded potato soup hot, paired with some crusty bread or your favorite side dish. Get ready for a cozy meal that warms the heart!
This hearty loaded potato soup is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and smoky goodness. Enjoy every spoonful!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are ideal for their starchiness, you can also use Yukon Gold for a creamier texture or red potatoes for a firmer bite. Adjust your cooking time slightly as needed!
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you prefer a healthier or vegetarian option, you can use turkey bacon or skip the meat entirely and sauté the onions in olive oil instead. Smoked paprika can add a nice smoky flavor if you’re omitting bacon.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up if it thickens.
Can I Freeze Loaded Potato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It’s best consumed within 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of liquid if needed.
