Loaded Potato Soup Recipe

Are you looking for a delicious, comforting dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your hunger? Look no further than this loaded potato soup recipe! This creamy, savory dish is perfect for chilly days or when you simply need a comforting bowl of soup. Packed with all the goodness of potatoes, cheese, and bacon, it's a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Read on to discover everything you need to know about making the perfect loaded potato soup, from ingredients to presentation tips and beyond!

What is Loaded Potato Soup?

Loaded potato soup is a creamy, thick soup made with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and other classic toppings often found on a loaded baked potato. It combines all the flavors of a loaded baked potato into one delicious, warming dish. Rich in flavor and easy to prepare, this soup is perfect for family meals, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week. Whether you're looking for something to warm you up on a cold day or a hearty soup to enjoy any time of the year, this recipe is a must-try.

Ingredients List for Loaded Potato Soup

To make the best-loaded potato soup, you'll need a few key ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating the rich and creamy texture, as well as the deliciously savory flavor. Here's what you’ll need:

Core Ingredients:

• Russet Potatoes (4-5 medium-sized): The starchy texture of russet potatoes makes them ideal for creating that creamy soup base.
• Bacon (8-10 slices): For a smoky, savory taste and crispy texture, bacon is a must-have ingredient.
• Onion (1 medium): A finely diced onion adds depth and sweetness to the soup.
• Garlic (2-3 cloves): Adds an aromatic punch that complements the other flavors beautifully.
• Chicken Broth (4 cups): This adds a rich, savory base for the soup.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): Cream helps to thicken the soup and gives it a rich, luxurious texture.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 ½ cups): Sharp cheddar cheese enhances the flavor and melts beautifully into the soup.
• Sour Cream (½ cup): Adds a tangy note that complements the richness of the cream and cheese.
• Butter (4 tbsp): Butter adds a rich flavor and helps sauté the onion and garlic.
• Green Onions (for garnish): Fresh green onions add color and a slight crunch to the final dish.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of all the other ingredients.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about loaded potato soup is how versatile it is. If you’re looking to make it your own, here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Vegetarian Option: You can omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make a vegetarian version of this soup. For added texture, try topping with crispy fried shallots or crumbled veggie bacon.
• Lighter Version: To make a lighter version, swap out heavy cream for whole milk or a plant-based alternative like unsweetened almond milk. You can also use turkey bacon instead of traditional pork bacon.
• Cheese Variations: While sharp cheddar is the classic choice, you can experiment with different types of cheese such as Gruyère, smoked gouda, or Monterey Jack for a new flavor twist.
• Loaded Sweet Potato Soup: For a healthier take, swap the russet potatoes with sweet potatoes. This variation adds a slight sweetness that pairs well with the smoky bacon and tangy sour cream.
• Extra Protein: Add shredded chicken, ham, or even cooked sausage for a more filling meal.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

The best part about this loaded potato soup recipe is how simple it is to make. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delicious and hearty soup.

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. You want them small enough to cook quickly but large enough to hold their shape in the soup.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until it's crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the bacon and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Drain most of the bacon fat from the pot, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons. Add the butter and heat until melted. Add the diced onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5-6 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Potatoes

Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 5: Blend the Soup (Optional)

For a thicker consistency, use an immersion blender to puree about half of the soup. If you don't have an immersion blender, you can remove a portion of the soup, blend it in a traditional blender, and then return it to the pot. This step is optional, depending on how creamy you want your soup to be.

Step 6: Add the Cream and Cheese

Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Season to Taste

Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, the bacon and cheese add saltiness, so go light on the salt at first and adjust as needed.

Step 8: Add Bacon and Garnish

Finally, stir in half of the crumbled bacon. Save the rest for garnish. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the reserved bacon, green onions, and an extra sprinkle of shredded cheese if desired.

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

Here’s a quick recap of how to cook loaded potato soup:

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and dice into cubes.
2. Cook the Bacon: Crisp the bacon and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Sauté in bacon fat for rich flavor.
4. Cook the Potatoes in Broth: Simmer until fork-tender.
5. Blend the Soup (Optional): For a creamier consistency.
6. Add Cream, Cheese, and Bacon: Stir in to finish the soup.
7. Garnish and Serve: Top with bacon, cheese, and green onions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Potatoes: If the potatoes are overcooked, they may break down too much and turn the soup into mashed potatoes. Keep an eye on the cooking time and check for doneness with a fork.
• Not Using Enough Salt: Potatoes can absorb a lot of seasoning. Taste your soup as you go and don’t be afraid to add more salt and pepper as needed.
• Skipping the Garnishes: The garnishes—like bacon, green onions, and extra cheese—add texture and flavor. Don’t skip them!

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can make a simple soup feel extra special. Here are some tips to make your loaded potato soup look as good as it tastes:

• Use Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with a slice of crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
• Serve in Bread Bowls: For a fun twist, serve the soup in bread bowls made from hollowed-out sourdough rolls.
• Top with Crispy Toppings: Sprinkle some extra-crispy bacon or fried onions on top for added texture.

How to Serve Loaded Potato Soup

Loaded potato soup is best served piping hot with fresh garnishes. You can offer extra toppings like shredded cheese, green onions, and sour cream on the side so people can customize their bowls. Pair it with a simple side salad or some freshly baked bread to complete the meal.

Presentation Ideas for Loaded Potato Soup

1. Elegant Bowls: Use white or neutral-colored bowls to make the vibrant garnishes stand out.
2. Rustic Setting: Serve in rustic ceramic bowls for a cozy, homestyle feel.
3. Mini Soup Shots: For parties, serve mini portions of the soup in small shot glasses or espresso cups for a fun appetizer.

Loaded Potato Soup Recipe Tips

• For Extra Creaminess: You can stir in an additional tablespoon of cream cheese for an even richer texture.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Batch Cooking: This soup freezes well. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?

A: Yes! Loaded potato soup actually tastes even better the next day. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat gently on the stove.

Q: Can I freeze loaded potato soup?

A: Yes, but keep in mind that dairy-based soups can sometimes separate when frozen. Reheat slowly and stir well to bring it back together.

Q: Can I use different types of potatoes?

A: Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes can be used, but they’ll result in a slightly different texture.

Q: How can I thicken the soup if it's too thin?

A: If your soup turns out too thin, you can mash some of the potatoes or make a slurry with flour and water to thicken it.

Conclusion

Loaded potato soup is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this soup is sure to be a hit at your table. From the crispy bacon to the melted cheese, every bite is bursting with flavor. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to add your favorite toppings to make it your own!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and start cooking this delicious loaded potato soup recipe for a meal that everyone will love!

Print