Name: Loaded Potato Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 green onions, sliced; 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 cup whole or 2% milk; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika

A bowl of loaded potato soup topped with cheese, bacon, and green onions.

Print Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Loaded Potato Soup wafting inviting aromas through your kitchen. Each spoonful encapsulates the essence of home, with sun-kissed russet potatoes nestled in a creamy broth, garnished generously with crispy bacon, bright green onions, and a shower of melted cheddar cheese. Picture the richness of creamy soup wrapping around your spoon, inviting you to take one more bite, and that irresistible crunch of bacon adding a textural contrast to the velvety base.

This dish offers not only satisfaction for the palate but also solace for the soul. On chilly evenings, when a cozy meal feels like the only remedy for the day’s troubles, loaded potato soup warms your heart and fills your belly. The scent of sautéed onions and garlic perfuming the air acts like a culinary hug, enveloping you in comfort before you even take that first bite. As you dig into the bowl, the harmony of flavors unfolds—earthy potatoes, savory broth, and a symphony of toppings create a delightful experience that transcends the simplicity of its ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Potato Soup

Imagine hosting a gathering with friends, laughter filling the room, all of you gathered around steaming bowls of this delightful soup. It stands out not only for its deliciousness but also for its versatility. Loaded Potato Soup emerges as a crowd-pleaser on game days, family dinners, and lazy weekend meals alike. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it the ultimate comfort food, while the toppings add an element of excitement that beckons for seconds.

This recipe is easy to prepare, allowing novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike to shine in the kitchen. It’s a dish that encourages creativity, inviting you to make it your own with various additions. Whether you’re adhering to a particular diet or simply looking to use up ingredients you have on hand, this soup embraces improvisation beautifully, keeping it fresh and exciting every time you make it.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To craft the perfect Loaded Potato Soup, embrace a few essential kitchen tools that will effortlessly elevate your culinary journey:

Large Soup Pot: A sturdy soup pot provides the right vessel for simmering the flavors together. Opt for one that can handle high heat while maintaining even cooking.
Immersion Blender: While a traditional blender works, an immersion blender allows you to puree the soup directly in the pot without the fuss of transferring hot liquid.
Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: A good-quality knife makes quick work of chopping onions and dicing potatoes, ensuring efficient prep.

Preparation Tips:

Have all ingredients ready to go before you begin cooking. This practice, known as mise en place, helps streamline the cooking process and reduces stress.
Use fresh herbs and spices for the best flavor. Ground spices can lose potency over time, so fresh is always preferable.

Ingredients for Loaded Potato Soup

Gather the following ingredients for a truly indulgent experience:

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced: The star of the dish, these potatoes deliver that hearty base we crave.
1 medium onion, chopped: Sweet and aromatic, onion adds depth to the flavor profile.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic enhances the overall taste, infusing the soup with a fragrant punch.
2 green onions, sliced: Adding brightness both in flavor and color, green onions elevate the dish.
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: This liquid base ensures the soup remains rich and flavorful.
1 cup whole or 2% milk: Milk adds creaminess, making each spoonful luxurious.
1/2 cup sour cream: A dollop of sour cream introduces tang, balancing the richness beautifully.
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Cheese is essential for that comforting, gooey texture we all love.
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled: Bacon brings a savory crunch that enhances the overall experience.
2 tablespoons olive oil: A drizzle of oil aids in sautéing the aromatic base.
1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Seasoning is key for bringing all flavors together.

Feel free to substitute low-fat dairy for a lighter version or explore non-dairy options for a vegan adaptation.

How to Make Loaded Potato Soup

Creating this Loaded Potato Soup is a joyous endeavor, leading you to a delicious reward. Follow these steps to bring this creamy delight to life:

Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, sautéing until translucent for about 5 minutes, allowing its natural sweetness to develop.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
Add diced potatoes to the pot, followed by pouring in the broth. Bring the mixture to a hearty boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.
Once the potatoes soften, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or blend half of it and leave the remainder chunky for a satisfying texture.
Stir in the milk, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook over low heat, stirring gently until the cheese melts completely and the soup turns creamy, which should take about 5 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, enhancing the flavor until it sings in your mouth.
Serve hot, garnished with crumbled bacon, extra cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, and any additional toppings you desire.

Chef’s Notes & Helpful Tips

Make-ahead tips: Prepare the soup a day in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors meld beautifully overnight.
Cooking alternatives: For those equipped with an air fryer or slow cooker, consider cooking the potatoes in those instead for added flavor depth and texture.
Customization ideas: Feel free to experiment with toppings like jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or even a swirl of pesto for a unique twist on flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Navigating soup-making can present challenges, but avoid these common pitfalls for perfect Loaded Potato Soup:

Overcooking the potatoes: Keep a close eye on the cooking time to ensure they stay intact and don’t get mushy. Fork-tender is the perfect consistency.
Skipping the seasoning: The aromatics must be well-seasoned to create a flavorful base. Adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process for optimal taste.
Under- or over-blending: Decide on your preferred texture early on. Beware of totally pureeing if you prefer some delightful chunks in your soup.

What to Serve With Loaded Potato Soup

Pair your Loaded Potato Soup with complementary sides that enhance the overall dining experience:

Crusty Bread: The golden-brown crust and soft interior of a fresh baguette create the ideal dipping companion for every creamy bite.
Garden Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens and vibrant veggies balances the richness of the soup, adding a refreshing crunch.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks brushed with garlic are perfect for sopping up every delicious morsel of this enticing soup.
Cheesy Biscuit: Flaky, cheesy biscuits complement the soup’s richness and add a different texture dimension.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted or grilled veggies brings a burst of flavor, creating a wholesome meal full of delightful textures and tastes.
Pickles or Olives: Tangy pickles or olives can cut through the creaminess and introduce an unexpected, zesty contrast.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

This Loaded Potato Soup saves beautifully, making it a prime candidate for leftovers:

Store any remaining soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
For long-term storage, freeze the soup before adding dairy or toppings. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup appears too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to achieve your desired consistency.

Estimated Nutrition Information

Per serving (approximately 1 cup):

Calories: ~320
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fat: 16g
Fiber: 3g

Keep in mind these values may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! Replace chicken or vegetable broth with a plant-based alternative, substitute the milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk, and skip the dairy cheese and sour cream in favor of vegan versions.

2. How can I thicken the soup?
If you desire a thicker soup, consider adding a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with a bit of cold water) towards the end of cooking. Alternatively, blend more of the potatoes for a heartier texture.

3. What toppings would you recommend?
In addition to the classic toppings of cheddar cheese and bacon, try adding sour cream, fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, or even crispy shallots for an extra layer of flavor.

4. Can I use other types of potatoes?
While russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe, you can substitute with Yukon gold or red potatoes for a slightly different taste and texture. Just keep an eye on cook times.

5. How long does it take to prepare?
From start to finish, this Loaded Potato Soup takes approximately 45 minutes. Prepare to savor every moment of cooking as the aromas flood your kitchen!

Conclusion

Indulging in a warm bowl of Loaded Potato Soup feels like a cozy embrace on a chilly evening. This recipe celebrates the balance of rich flavors and inviting textures, offering a delightful experience that lingers long after the last spoonful. As you embark on this delicious journey, embrace the warmth of your kitchen, the joy of cooking, and the laughter shared with loved ones over a steaming bowl of heartfelt goodness. So grab your ingredients and savor the delightful transformation of simple ingredients into a beloved classic that will keep you coming back for more!

Hi, I’m Clara!

I'm a food lover and a firm believer that anyone can learn to cook with a little curiosity and courage. My story with food didn’t begin in a tiny apartment with a two-burner stove and a stack of cookbooks from the local library. I was broke and desperate to make something anything that felt like home.

About Me