Loaded Potato Soup Recipe

If you're craving something warm, rich, and satisfying, look no further than this Loaded Potato Soup Recipe. This creamy dish is packed with the flavors of crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and tender potatoes. It's the ultimate comfort food for a cozy night in or any time you're in need of a hearty meal. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and seasoned cooks. Keep reading to learn how to make this delectable soup and discover tips, variations, and answers to common questions along the way!

this Recipe

What is Loaded Potato Soup?

Loaded potato soup is a thick, creamy soup made from potatoes, bacon, cheddar cheese, and sour cream—similar to a loaded baked potato but in soup form. It's a classic comfort dish that brings together rich flavors and textures to create a warm, hearty meal perfect for cold weather or whenever you need something filling and delicious. The soup has all the toppings you'd expect from a loaded potato—bacon, cheese, and sour cream—but the potatoes themselves serve as the base of this rich, creamy soup.

Ingredients List for Loaded Potato Soup

Here's a list of all the ingredients you'll need to create this comforting bowl of soup:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed – Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for their texture and flavor.
• ½ teaspoon salt, to season the potatoes while boiling.
• 8 oz bacon, chopped into bite-sized pieces – The bacon adds a salty, smoky flavor that balances the creaminess of the soup.
• 4 tablespoon unsalted butter, for sautéing the onions and garlic.
• ½ medium onion, finely chopped – The onions provide a savory depth of flavor.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Adds a touch of pungent, savory flavor to the soup.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour, to thicken the soup.
• 2 ½ cups whole milk, adds richness to the base of the soup.
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth, for depth and flavor.
• 1 cup mild or sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – The cheese melts into the soup, giving it a creamy and cheesy texture.
• ¾ cup sour cream, for tang and extra creaminess.
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste.
• Green onions, finely chopped for garnish.

Substitutions and Variations

There are several ways to customize this loaded potato soup recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some substitution ideas and variations:

1. Dairy-Free Option: Replace the milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free sour cream and cheese.
2. Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a smoky flavor, try adding smoked paprika.
3. Lighter Version: Swap out sour cream for Greek yogurt, and use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.
4. Extra Veggies: You can bulk up this soup with extra vegetables like carrots, celery, or leeks for added texture and flavor.
5. Cheese Variations: Use a different type of cheese like Gruyère, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a little heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This loaded potato soup is simple to prepare, and the steps are straightforward. Follow these detailed instructions to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

• Start by peeling and cubing your potatoes. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Add ½ teaspoon of salt to the water. Bring the potatoes to a boil and cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and set the potatoes aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

• While the potatoes are boiling, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and drain them on a paper towel. Reserve about 1-2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the skillet for added flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

• In the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add the chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to a minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Create the Roux

• In the skillet with the onions and garlic, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, stir in the flour to make a roux. Cook the flour for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it's slightly golden in color. This step ensures the soup has a thick, smooth consistency.

Step 5: Add Milk and Broth

• Slowly whisk in the milk and chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and allow it to thicken for 3-4 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Potatoes and Soup Base

• Add the drained, cooked potatoes to the soup base. Use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes directly in the soup, leaving a few chunks for texture. This step helps thicken the soup while keeping it hearty.

Step 7: Stir in Cheese, Sour Cream, and Seasoning

• Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese has melted and the soup is creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Step 8: Add Bacon and Serve

• Stir in the crispy bacon pieces (reserve some for garnish if you like). Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to blend all the flavors together.

How to Cook Loaded Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking loaded potato soup is an enjoyable process that fills your kitchen with the aroma of onions, garlic, and bacon. Here's a quick guide to ensure you make the perfect pot of soup every time:

1. Prep the potatoes and bacon: Peel, cube, and boil your potatoes while cooking the bacon until crispy. These two steps can be done simultaneously to save time.
2. Build the base: Sauté onions and garlic in the bacon fat, then create a roux by adding butter and flour. This will give the soup a creamy and rich texture.
3. Mix and mash: Add the cooked potatoes and mash some of them into the soup base. Stir in cheese, sour cream, and seasonings to create the ultimate creamy and cheesy soup.
4. Final touch: Finish by stirring in the crispy bacon and letting the soup simmer to enhance the flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple recipe like loaded potato soup, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

1. Overcooking the Potatoes: If you boil the potatoes too long, they can become mushy and lose their texture. Cook them just until fork-tender.
2. Not Thickening the Soup Properly: When making the roux, be sure to cook the flour long enough to eliminate the raw taste. Failing to do so will result in a soup that tastes floury.
3. Using Low-Quality Bacon: The bacon flavor is essential in this soup, so choose good-quality bacon for the best results.
4. Skipping the Mashing Step: Mashing the potatoes into the soup thickens it naturally. Skipping this step may leave your soup too thin.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can elevate your loaded potato soup and make it even more inviting. Here are some tips for serving and presenting your dish:

1. Garnish Generously: Top each bowl with a sprinkle of crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream for a picture-perfect finish.
2. Serve with Bread: A side of warm, crusty bread or garlic toast pairs perfectly with the soup and helps soak up every last drop.
3. Use Soup Bowls: Ladle the soup into deep bowls to showcase its creamy texture and hearty ingredients.

How to Serve Loaded Potato Soup

This soup is best served hot and fresh from the pot. Garnish each serving with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and green onions for a pop of color and flavor. For an added layer of indulgence, serve it with a side of crusty bread or buttery biscuits.

Presentation Ideas for Loaded Potato Soup

• Serve the soup in rustic bowls for a homestyle feel.
• Use a drizzle of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives or green onions on top to add a vibrant contrast to the creamy soup.
• Add a side of toasted bread or garlic knots to make the meal even more comforting.

Loaded Potato Soup Recipe Tips

1. Use Russet Potatoes for the creamiest texture. Yukon Golds are also a good option, but Russets break down more easily, creating a smoother soup.
2. Double the Recipe: This soup stores well, so make a big batch to enjoy later. Just keep the bacon separate so it stays crispy when reheated.
3. Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly shredded cheese and real garlic make a noticeable difference in the flavor.
4. Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or milk until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce and thicken.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze loaded potato soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup. However, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon reheating due to the dairy content. It’s best to freeze the soup before adding the sour cream and then stir it in after reheating.

How long will loaded potato soup last in the fridge?

This soup will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Store it in an airtight container, and when reheating, warm it gently on the stove to avoid curdling.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, loaded potato soup can be made a day in advance. The flavors meld together nicely after sitting, but for the best texture, add the bacon just before serving to keep it crispy.

Conclusion

Loaded potato soup is the epitome of comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Whether you're warming up on a chilly evening or simply in need of a hearty, satisfying meal, this soup is sure to hit the spot. With easy-to-find ingredients, customizable options, and simple cooking steps, this recipe is accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Be sure to try out some of the variations and serving ideas, and enjoy this comforting classic!

Make this loaded potato soup today, and savor every spoonful of creamy, cheesy goodness!

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