This Loaded Potato Soup is creamy, warm, and just perfect for chilly days! Filled with tender potatoes, cheese, and crispy bacon, it’s like a hug in a bowl.
You won’t believe how easy it is to make! Just chop, simmer, and blend a bit. In no time, you’ll have a deliciously hearty soup that everyone will love. Enjoy it with a slice of bread!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Bacon adds a wonderful smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon or tempeh can work nicely as a substitute without losing too much taste.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are creamy and perfect for this soup, but russets or red potatoes could also be used. If you want a low-carb option, try cauliflower; just blend it well for that creamy texture.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for its sharp flavor. For a milder taste, you could use Monterey Jack. Vegan cheese can also be a great substitute if you want a dairy-free version.
Sour Cream: Sour cream adds tanginess. Greek yogurt can be a healthier swap for a similar texture. For dairy-free, coconut yogurt works, though it might impart a slight coconut flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup is Nice and Creamy?
For creamy soup, texture is key! After boiling the potatoes until tender, you have options. You can use a potato masher to leave some chunks, making it hearty. An immersion blender is great for a smoother texture – blend to your liking!
- Start by mashing some potatoes after cooking. This helps thicken the soup.
- If using an immersion blender, blend only part of the soup for a mix of creamy and chunky textures.
- Finally, make sure to stir in your cream and cheese until melted for that perfect silky finish.
Loaded Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes (such as Yukon Gold)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
For the Garnish:
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Fresh chives, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This wholesome Loaded Potato Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend about 40 minutes, but your family will enjoy it for a lot longer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Leave about 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the pot—this adds fantastic flavor!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the butter to the reserved bacon fat. Allow it to melt, then toss in the chopped onion. Cook the onion for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Now, add the minced garlic and cook for just another minute, stirring to keep things from burning.
3. Make the Base:
Next, sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes. This helps to cook off any raw flour taste and will help your soup thicken beautifully. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps left.
4. Cook the Potatoes:
Now it’s time to add the diced potatoes. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
5. Blend for Texture:
To thicken the soup, use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash some of the potatoes in the pot. You can leave some chunks for that hearty texture—it’s all about how creamy you like your soup!
6. Add Creaminess:
Stir in the sour cream, heavy cream (or half-and-half), and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything until the cheese melts and the soup becomes delightful and creamy. Remember to taste it and add salt and pepper as needed!
7. Serve It Up:
Dish out the hot soup into bowls and top each one with crispy bacon pieces, additional cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and fresh chives. Enjoy your bowl of comfort!
8. Enjoy with Bread:
For an extra treat, serve your Loaded Potato Soup with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls on the side. This will make your meal even more satisfying!
Enjoy your comforting bowl of Loaded Potato Soup!
Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes in This Soup?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes make a great addition. Just reduce the amount of chicken broth by about a cup and stir in the mashed potatoes at the end until heated through.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian! Swap the bacon for a plant-based option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and substitute the cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives for a delicious vegetarian version.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative with toppings! Apart from bacon and cheese, you can add sour cream, diced jalapeños for a kick, crispy onions, or even avocado slices for a fresh twist. Enjoy customizing it to your taste!
