Loaded Potato Soup

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a warm bowl of Loaded Potato Soup. This rich, creamy dish has been a staple in my kitchen for years, especially during chilly evenings. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even a solo night in. What makes this recipe truly special is how easily it comes together—using simple ingredients you probably already have on hand, it creates a deeply satisfying meal that feels luxuriously indulgent.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Loaded Potato Soup isn’t just a delicious side; it’s a complete meal that checks all the boxes. Whether you’re looking for something quick to whip up on a weeknight or aiming to impress your guests at a dinner party, this recipe has got you covered. The combination of creamy potatoes, savory bacon, and rich cheese creates a symphony of flavors that is simply irresistible.

“This soup is like a warm hug on a cold day! My kids couldn’t get enough of it!” — Sarah M.

One of the best things about Loaded Potato Soup is that it’s budget-friendly and can serve several people without breaking the bank. It’s also incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions—think cozy family brunches, holiday dinners, or even as starter at a gathering.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Preparing Loaded Potato Soup is straightforward and doesn’t take much time at all. By the end of the cooking process, you’ll have a hearty, creamy soup that is more than just comfort food; it’s an experience. Here’s a quick overview of what you will do:

1. Sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant.
2. Add diced potatoes and broth, then bring it to a boil.
3. Simmer it down until the potatoes are tender.
4. Mash some of the potatoes for a creamy texture and stir in heavy cream and cheese.
5. Season and serve hot with delicious toppings!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, let’s make sure you have everything you need:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to get creative—substituting with plant-based cheese or using a mix of broths can add your unique spin!

Cooking Steps

Let’s dive into the directions for creating your Loaded Potato Soup:

1. In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they turn translucent and fragrant.
2. Add the diced potatoes and pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Grab a potato masher and mash a portion of the potatoes right in the pot. This will give your soup a creamy, thick texture while still having some chunks for character.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until it’s all melted and combined—this is where the magic happens!
5. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with crumbled bacon and sliced green onions for that perfect finishing touch.

Best Way to Serve

Loaded Potato Soup is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the experience by pairing it with various sides. I recommend a crisp green salad for balance or some garlic bread for dipping. You could also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple sandwich for a complete meal. Consider topping each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of paprika for added flavor!

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is unlikely), here’s how to store them properly:

• Refrigeration: Place the soup in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze Loaded Potato Soup for about 1-2 months. Just make sure to leave out the cream and cheese when preparing it for freezing. Add them back in after thawing for the best texture.
• Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat on low heat on the stove. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream to bring it back to its original consistency.

Expert Advice

For a richer flavor, consider roasting your diced potatoes in the oven before adding them to the pot. Just toss them in some olive oil and your favorite spices, then roast for 20 minutes at 400°F. The slight caramelization adds delicious depth to the soup.

If you prefer a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for a combination of low-fat milk and Greek yogurt. This maintains the creaminess without all the calories.

Creative Twists

While the classic Loaded Potato Soup is perfectly satisfying as is, you can experiment to create your own version! Here are a few ideas:

• Cheesy Broccoli Loaded Potato Soup: Add steamed broccoli florets for a veggie boost.
• Spicy Southwest Twist: Stir in some diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
• Vegan Version: Swap the cream for coconut milk and the cheese for a nut-based alternative. The soup will still be luscious and creamy!

Your questions answered

How long does it take to make Loaded Potato Soup?
Typically, you can make this soup in about 30-40 minutes from start to finish, including prep time.

Can I use different types of potatoes?
Absolutely! While russets are traditional, you can use red or Yukon gold potatoes for a slightly different texture and flavor.

Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze it without cream or cheese. Once you thaw it, you can blend in fresh cream or milk for the best taste.

Loaded Potato Soup is more than just a dish; it’s a comforting experience that brings people together. Enjoy bringing this delightful recipe into your home, and don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes a family favorite!

Loaded Potato Soup

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• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A warm, creamy Loaded Potato Soup that’s the epitome of comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings and gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they turn translucent and fragrant.
2. Add the diced potatoes and pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Grab a potato masher and mash a portion of the potatoes right in the pot for a creamy, thick texture.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
5. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with crumbled bacon and sliced green onions.

Notes

Experiment with toppings like sour cream or paprika. For a vegan version, swap cream for coconut milk and cheese for a nut-based alternative.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: soup, comfort food, loaded potato, creamy soup, easy recipe