Loaded Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving a warm bowl of deliciousness. This creamy, cheesy soup can easily become a family favorite, offering a rich flavor packed with hearty ingredients. Imagine your kitchen filled with the irresistible scent of simmering potatoes and smoky bacon as you prepare this delightful dish. It’s simple, comforting, and satisfies with every spoonful!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 320
- Protein: 10g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 40g per serving
- Fat: 15g per serving
- Fiber: 4g per serving
- Sugar: 2g per serving
- Sodium: 750mg per serving
How to Make Loaded Potato Soup
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they begin to soften.
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Step 2: Mixing
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
-
Step 3: Blending
Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. For a chunkier soup, mash only part of the potatoes.
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Step 4: Finishing
Stir in the milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Heat through until everything is warmed nicely. Serve hot, topped with cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and colorful green onions.
How to Serve Loaded Potato Soup
Loaded Potato Soup is best enjoyed fresh, served piping hot! You can pair it with crispy bread or a simple garden salad for a complete meal. For a cozy evening, serve it in bread bowls for a fun twist. This soup is also a perfect addition to your holiday gatherings or family dinners, ensuring everyone gets a taste of comfort.
How to Store Loaded Potato Soup
To store any leftovers, let your Loaded Potato Soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if the soup thickens too much.
Expert Tips for Perfect Loaded Potato Soup
- Potato Choice: Russet potatoes are ideal for soup because of their starchy nature, which makes for a creamy texture. If you want a smoother soup, use Yukon gold potatoes.
- Broth Flavor: Opt for homemade broth if you can; it greatly enhances the flavor!
- Herbs: Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an aromatic twist.
- Bacon Substitutes: If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the bacon or use smoked tempeh for a similar flavor.
- Spice it Up: For a kick, throw in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.
Delicious Variations
- Chili Cheese Loaded Potato Soup: Add a can of chili to the soup for a hearty twist and top with additional cheese.
- Vegetable Loaded Potato Soup: Throw in your favorite vegetables like carrots or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.
- Buffalo Chicken Potato Soup: Stir in shreds of cooked chicken and a bit of buffalo sauce for a spicy, protein-packed version.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can make Loaded Potato Soup a day ahead. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving. - Can I use a non-dairy milk?
Absolutely! Almond milk or oat milk can be substituted for a dairy-free version. - What do I do if my soup is too thick?
Simply add additional broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency. - Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth, Loaded Potato Soup is a great gluten-free option. - How do I make this soup creamier?
For an ultra-creamy texture, add more sour cream or a splash of heavy cream towards the end of cooking.
Conclusion
Loaded Potato Soup is not just a dish; it’s an experience that warms your heart. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and the comfort it delivers, this soup is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, it’s simple to make and utterly delicious. So grab your ingredients and give this delightful recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy the tasty results and the smiles it brings to your table.
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Loaded Potato Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian (with bacon optional)
Description
A creamy and cheesy Loaded Potato Soup that is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they begin to soften.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. For a chunkier soup, mash only part of the potatoes.
- Stir in the milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Heat through until everything is warmed nicely. Serve hot, topped with cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and colorful green onions.
Notes
Best served hot with crispy bread or garden salad. To store leftovers, cool and refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
