BEST LOADED POTATO SOUP

Craving something undeniably comforting, a warm hug in a bowl that’s bursting with flavor and satisfies every single time? Forget bland soups; this Loaded Potato Soup recipe isn’t just a meal, it’s an experience, a symphony of creamy potatoes, savory bacon, sharp cheddar, and cool sour cream that’ll make you want to curl up on the couch with a spoon! I promise you, with this recipe, you’ll be making the best loaded potato soup you’ve ever tasted!

What You’ll Need: The Ingredients for Potato Perfection

The Potato Base

• 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

The Loaded Goodness

• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon fat)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh chives (or green onions)

Optional Extras

• Hot sauce, for a kick
• Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• Cooked ham, diced
• Chopped fresh parsley

Let’s Get Cooking: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter and reserved bacon fat over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for building flavor, so don’t rush it!
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

Step 2: Building the Base

1. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will help thicken the soup.
2. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Those bits are flavor gold!
3. Add the cubed potatoes, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Simmer and Soften

1. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender. This is where the magic happens, as the potatoes break down and create a creamy texture.

Step 4: Creamy Dreamy

1. Remove the pot from the heat and carefully use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, but be sure to vent the lid to prevent pressure from building up.
2. Stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) until well combined.

Step 5: Load It Up!

1. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese. The heat from the soup will melt it, creating an even cheesier flavor.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the remaining cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, sour cream, and chopped chives.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Troubleshooting Tips and Tricks: My Kitchen Secrets

• Soup Too Thick? If your soup is too thick, simply add more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
• Soup Too Thin? If your soup is too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a few minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and whisk it into the soup while simmering.
• Bacon Burning? To prevent your bacon from burning, cook it over medium-low heat and turn it frequently.
• Cheese Clumping? To prevent the cheese from clumping, make sure the soup isn’t too hot when you add it. You can also toss the shredded cheese with a tablespoon of cornstarch before adding it to the soup.

Variations to Make It Your Own: Let’s Get Creative!

• Spicy Loaded Potato Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Loaded Potato Soup: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the bacon. You can add other vegetables like corn or broccoli for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Soup: Combine all ingredients (except for the toppings and dairy) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream and cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This is perfect for a busy weeknight!
• Dairy-Free Loaded Potato Soup: Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Serving Suggestions: Complete the Meal

• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing that’s always a winner.
• Side Salad: A light and refreshing salad to balance the richness of the soup.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Consider making Minestrone Soup or Italian Penicillin Soup for a lighter soup option.
• If you’re looking for a comforting potato side dish, try Meatloaf Mashed Potatoeseer. You could also try Mexican Street Corn Soup Crockpot.
• For a heartier meal featuring potatoes, check out Crockpot Chicken Potato Perfection. For a more simple take on the soup itself, see Creamy Potato Soup

Storage Tips: Making It Last

• Refrigerator: Store leftover loaded potato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: While potato soup can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, let the soup cool completely and store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. It’s best to add the toppings (cheese, sour cream, bacon, chives) after reheating.

Why This Recipe Works: The Science of Deliciousness

This recipe is all about layering flavors and textures. The sautéed onions and garlic create a flavorful base, the roux thickens the soup, and the potatoes provide a creamy texture. The heavy cream adds richness, while the cheddar cheese provides a sharp, cheesy flavor. The bacon adds a smoky, salty element, and the sour cream and chives add a cool, refreshing contrast. It’s the perfect combination of comfort and flavor!

So, What Are You Waiting For? Let’s Make Some Soup!

Seriously, this Loaded Potato Soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for a chilly day, a cozy night in, or any time you’re craving something warm, comforting, and delicious. Don’t be intimidated by the ingredients or steps; I’ve broken it down into easy-to-follow instructions, and I’ve shared all my best tips and tricks along the way. Grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! You’re going to love this soup!