Loaded Potato Soup is a creamy, comforting soup that’s packed with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights or any time you’re craving a rich and satisfying soup.
Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Loaded Potato Soup:
Loaded Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
- 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (960ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk or heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups (170g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions), for garnish
- Extra crispy bacon (crumbled), for garnish
- Fresh parsley (optional), for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon and set aside on a paper towel to drain. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings in the pot.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté in the bacon drippings over medium heat until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Cook the Potatoes:
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
4. Mash the Potatoes:
- Using a potato masher, mash the potatoes slightly to thicken the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender or regular blender (blend in batches, then return to the pot).
5. Add the Dairy and Seasoning:
- Stir in the milk (or heavy cream), sour cream, dried thyme (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and incorporate the flavors.
6. Add Cheese:
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully combined into the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper if desired.
7. Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley (if using).
Optional Add-ins:
- Veggies: Add some chopped carrots or celery along with the onions for added texture and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a little heat.
- Cheese: For extra richness, you can mix in some cream cheese or use a variety of cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Protein: Add cooked chicken or sausage to make the soup more filling.
Tips:
- Make-Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a little extra milk or broth to loosen it up, as it may thicken in the fridge.
- Freezing: Potato soup can be frozen, but keep in mind that the texture might change slightly when reheated, especially the creaminess. Freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
This Loaded Potato Soup is rich, creamy, and full of flavor, with all the delicious toppings that make it irresistible! Perfect for any occasion, especially when you’re craving something comforting and hearty. Enjoy!