This warm and creamy loaded potato soup is a hug in a bowl! With fluffy potatoes, crunchy bacon, and a sprinkle of cheese, it’s comfort food at its best.
I like to top mine with green onions for a little zing. It’s perfect for chilly days when you just want to snuggle up and enjoy something tasty. Give it a try; you won’t regret it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are perfect for this soup. They’ll become creamy and flavorful. If you’re watching carbs, consider cauliflower for a lighter version.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for extra flavor and crunch. If you prefer a leaner option, turkey bacon or pancetta works well too.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness. Vegetable broth can be a great substitute if you want to keep it vegetarian.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor! If you’re not a cheddar fan, try pepper jack for a bit of spice or even gouda for a different twist. Vegan cheese works too!
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt is a fantastic alternative for a healthier option while keeping the creamy texture. You can also use a dairy-free sour cream for a vegan choice.
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Texture?
The key to a creamy consistency lies in how you handle the potatoes. Here’s how:
- Cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes simmering in broth.
- You can use a potato masher or an immersion blender. For a chunkier soup, just mash a portion and leave others intact.
- If you want it extra thick, prepare a roux first with butter and flour before adding the broth.
Remember, don’t rush this part! A little patience will give you a rich and delicious soup.
Loaded Potato Soup With Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 5 cups peeled and diced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 4 slices bacon
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
Optional Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter (for added richness)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (if you want a thicker soup)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and around 30 minutes for cooking, so you’ll be enjoying a delicious bowl of loaded potato soup in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the pot and drain it on paper towels. After it cools down, crumble it into small pieces and set aside. Make sure to keep about 1 to 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot for extra flavor.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the finely chopped onion to the bacon fat in the pot. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
3. Optional Roux Step:
If you want a thicker soup, add the butter to the onion and garlic mixture to melt. Then, sprinkle the flour over and stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux, which will help thicken the soup.
4. Add Potatoes and Broth:
Now, it’s time to add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
5. Mash Some Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash some of the potatoes right in the pot. This gives the soup a creamy texture while leaving some chunks intact for added body.
6. Stir in Cream and Cheese:
Add in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through. Don’t forget to season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste!
7. Serve It Up:
Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle the crumbled bacon, extra cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions on top for garnish.
8. Enjoy Your Soup!
This hearty loaded potato soup pairs wonderfully with some crusty bread or rolls on the side. Dig in and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
With the right balance of flavors and a comforting warmth, this loaded potato soup is the ultimate cozy meal. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes for This Soup?
Absolutely! Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes work great due to their texture and flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, you can substitute cauliflower for a lighter soup.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and leave out the bacon. You can add a little smoked paprika for some of that savory flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens in the fridge, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up when reheating.
Can I Make This Soup in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day ahead! Just reheat it gently on the stove and freshen it up with a bit of cream and cheese before serving. It will taste even better as the flavors meld overnight!
