There’s something undeniably cozy about a warm bowl of loaded potato soup on a chilly night. With creamy potatoes, savory bacon, and a delightful blend of cheese and spices, this dish has secured its place in my heart—and in my kitchen. When my family craves comfort, I turn to this recipe for its unbeatable flavor and satisfying texture. Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together around the table.
Loaded Potato Soup
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
A creamy and hearty loaded potato soup filled with bacon, cheese, and spices, perfect for chilly nights.
Ingredients
- 6 strips bacon
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 4 large Russet potatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (or more to taste)
- 3/4 cup sour cream (or more to taste)
- Chopped scallions, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, cut the bacon into small pieces and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of fat in the pot.
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté in the bacon fat for roughly 5 minutes or until softened.
- Sprinkle in the flour and stir for 1 minute to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth, then add the chicken broth and minced garlic.
- Toss in the diced potatoes, increase the heat, and bring the mixture close to a boil.
- Reduce the heat, partially cover, and let simmer for about 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender. For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes with a fork.
- Stir in the sour cream, the majority of the cheese, and the reserved bacon. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Serve hot, topped with the remaining cheese, bacon pieces, and chopped scallions.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and substitute bacon with sautéed mushrooms.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Loaded potato soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that can brighten even the dreariest of days. This recipe stands out for several reasons:
- Quick and Easy: In less than 40 minutes, you can whip up a hearty soup that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with simple ingredients, it won’t break the bank.
- Kid-Approved: The creamy texture and familiar flavors make it a hit with the little ones, ensuring it’ll be a regular in your meal rotation.
- Versatile: Ideal for a comforting weeknight meal, elegant enough for a holiday feast, or even a satisfying brunch.
“This loaded potato soup was a hit at our family gathering! Everyone went back for seconds—it’s officially a new tradition!” – A happy home cook
How This Recipe Comes Together
Before diving into the ingredients, here’s a brief overview of how to make this loaded potato soup:
- Cook and crisp the bacon, then sauté onions in the flavorful drippings.
- Add flour to create a roux, enhancing the soup’s creamy consistency.
- Slowly incorporate milk and broth, bringing your mixture to a gentle boil.
- Toss in the diced potatoes and let them simmer until tender.
- Finish with sour cream, bacon, and a generous amount of cheese.
Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 25 min | Total Time: 35 min
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to make your loaded potato soup:
- 6 strips bacon
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 4 large Russet potatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (or more to taste)
- 3/4 cup sour cream (or more to taste)
- Chopped scallions, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Feel free to swap the cheddar cheese for a dairy-free alternative or the chicken broth for vegetable broth if needed.
Directions to Follow
- In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, cut the bacon into small pieces and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of fat in the pot.
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté in the bacon fat for roughly 5 minutes or until softened.
- Sprinkle in the flour and stir for 1 minute to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth, then add the chicken broth and minced garlic.
- Toss in the diced potatoes, increase the heat, and bring the mixture close to a boil.
- Reduce the heat, partially cover, and let simmer for about 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender. For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes with a fork.
- Stir in the sour cream, the majority of the cheese, and the reserved bacon. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Serve hot, topped with the remaining cheese, bacon pieces, and chopped scallions.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Now that you have a steaming bowl of loaded potato soup, consider these creative serving suggestions:
- Garnish Delight: Enhance presentation with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
- Delicious Dips: Pair with crusty bread or garlic knots for dipping.
- Salad Sidekick: Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Your leftovers deserve the same care as the initial bowl of soup. Here’s how to store and reheat properly:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, but remember that the texture might change slightly upon reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the soup gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much during storage.
Helpful Cooking Tips
To elevate your loaded potato soup experience, consider these pro chef secrets:
- Bacon Variations: For a smoky flavor, try using smoked turkey bacon or pancetta.
- Creamier Soup: Substitute half the milk with heavy cream for an even richer, more indulgent texture.
- Seasoning Boost: Experiment with added spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
Creative Twists
Why not put a personal spin on this classic recipe? Here are some fun variations to try:
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños for heat.
- Vegetarian Delight: Use vegetable broth and swap the bacon for sautéed mushrooms.
- Different Toppings: Try adding avocado, or a dollop of salsa for a fresh twist.
Your Questions Answered
- How long does prep and cooking take?
- The total time for making this dish is around 35 minutes, with 10 minutes for prep and 25 minutes for cooking.
- What can I substitute for sour cream?
- Plain Greek yogurt or crème fraîche can be excellent alternatives.
- Is it safe to freeze the soup?
- Yes, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. However, ingredients like potatoes may change texture slightly when reheated.
With this guide, you’re well on your way to mastering the comforting and creamy delight of loaded potato soup. Enjoy creating a dish that’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly!