Loaded Potato Soup Recipe

Creamy, cheesy, and full of hearty potatoes and bacon flavor, this loaded potato soup recipe will warm you up on a chilly day! With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you'll have a comforting bowl of soup perfect for lunch or dinner. Read on to discover all the details, tips, and tricks to make the perfect loaded potato soup!

What is “Loaded Potato Soup”?

Loaded potato soup is a rich, creamy, and hearty soup that combines tender potatoes, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and sour cream to give you the same flavors you'd find in a classic loaded baked potato. It’s a delicious comfort food that’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you're cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this soup is a guaranteed hit!

Ingredients List for Loaded Potato Soup

Here's everything you need to make this scrumptious loaded potato soup recipe:

• 4 large potatoes: Peeled and cubed; russet or Yukon gold potatoes work best for a creamy texture.
• ½ teaspoon salt: For seasoning the potatoes as they cook.
• 8 ounces bacon: Cut into bite-sized pieces. Bacon adds a savory, smoky flavor to the soup.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Used for sautéing and adds richness to the soup.
• ½ medium onion, finely chopped: Onions give the soup a sweet, savory base flavor.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic provides depth and aroma to the soup.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Used to thicken the soup to the perfect creamy consistency.
• 2 ½ cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and smooth texture to the soup.
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth: Provides a flavorful base for the soup, balancing the richness of the milk.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar adds a delicious sharpness that pairs well with the potatoes and bacon.
• ¾ cup sour cream: Creamy and tangy, sour cream enhances the richness of the soup.
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste: Additional seasoning to bring out the flavors of all the ingredients.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste: Adds a little kick and balances the richness of the soup.
• Green onions: Thinly sliced, for garnish and a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Substitutions and Variations for Loaded Potato Soup

You can easily tweak this loaded potato soup recipe based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

• Potatoes: Yukon gold or russet potatoes are the best for this recipe. However, red potatoes work well too if you prefer a firmer texture.
• Bacon: If you're avoiding pork, try turkey bacon, or for a vegetarian version, use smoked tofu or omit the bacon entirely and add some smoked paprika for a similar flavor.
• Milk: Whole milk gives a creamy result, but for a lighter version, you can use 2% milk or even plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Keep in mind that using lower-fat milk may result in a less creamy texture.
• Cheese: Feel free to use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a spicy pepper jack for some added heat.
• Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can be used instead of sour cream for a tangy, protein-packed alternative.
• Additional Toppings: Customize your soup by adding extra toppings like crispy fried onions, chives, or even a dollop of guacamole for a unique twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process for this loaded potato soup. Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time.

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Start by peeling and cubing the potatoes. Place them in a large pot and add enough water to cover the potatoes. Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of salt. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 10-15 minutes or until they are fork-tender. Once done, drain the potatoes and set them aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon pieces until they are crispy. This should take about 7-10 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan. Set the crispy bacon aside for later.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet with the remaining bacon fat, add the butter. Once melted, add the finely chopped onions and cook for 4-5 minutes until they are soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Make the Soup Base

Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to coat them evenly. Cook the flour for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw taste. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue stirring the mixture as it comes to a simmer and begins to thicken.

Step 5: Add Potatoes and Cheese

Once the soup has thickened, add the cooked potatoes into the pot. Stir well, then add the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese has melted and is fully incorporated into the soup.

Step 6: Add Sour Cream and Seasonings

Turn the heat to low and stir in the sour cream. Season the soup with additional salt and pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick for your liking, you can thin it out with more chicken broth or milk.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the crispy bacon, sliced green onions, and additional shredded cheddar cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious homemade loaded potato soup!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Potatoes: Be careful not to overcook the potatoes when boiling. Overcooked potatoes can become mushy and make the soup too thick.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks very quickly. Add it to the pan for just 30 seconds before moving on to avoid a bitter taste.
• Not Thickening the Soup Properly: Don’t rush the flour step. Cooking the flour for 1-2 minutes is essential to avoid a raw flour taste.
• Adding Cheese Too Early: Only add the cheese once the soup is hot and the potatoes are fully cooked to avoid curdling.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When serving loaded potato soup, you can get creative with the presentation to make it look as delicious as it tastes. A well-presented soup can enhance the dining experience and impress your guests.

How to Serve Loaded Potato Soup

Serve this loaded potato soup in deep bowls so that each serving can hold all the delicious toppings like bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions. For a fun twist, consider serving the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls made from sourdough or French bread. This not only adds a rustic touch but also offers an edible bowl that soaks up the creamy soup.

Presentation Ideas for Loaded Potato Soup

• Toppings: Garnish the soup generously with extra crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream. You can even sprinkle some smoked paprika or cracked black pepper for an extra layer of flavor and color.
• Side Dishes: Serve the soup with buttery garlic bread or a fresh green salad to complement the richness of the soup.
• Elegant Serving Bowls: Use white or brightly colored bowls to contrast with the golden hues of the soup, or opt for rustic pottery to create a homey, comforting atmosphere.

Loaded Potato Soup Recipe Tips

• Consistency Adjustments: If you like your soup chunkier, mash only half of the potatoes and leave the rest in larger chunks. For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth.
• Storage Tips: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a little broth or milk to thin it out if it has thickened too much.
• Freezing: Loaded potato soup can be frozen, but keep in mind that the texture of the potatoes may change slightly when reheated. To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make loaded potato soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove over medium-low heat.

Q: Can I freeze loaded potato soup?
A: Yes, this soup can be frozen. However, the texture of the potatoes may become a bit grainy upon reheating. To freeze, cool the soup completely, store in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to use any cheese you enjoy. Cheddar is the classic choice, but Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even pepper jack can be delicious alternatives.

Q: How can I make the soup thicker?
A: If your soup is too thin, you can let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry, then whisk it into the soup.

Q: Is this soup gluten-free?
A: To make this soup gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Conclusion

Loaded potato soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, tangy sour cream, and sharp cheddar cheese. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit a range of tastes and preferences. Whether you're making it for a cozy family dinner or serving it as an impressive starter for guests, this loaded potato soup is sure to become a favorite. Don’t forget to top it with all your favorite garnishes for a bowl of pure comfort!

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