Loaded Potato Soup

 

Loaded Potato Soup: Creamy, Comforting, and Packed with Flavor

When the weather turns chilly or you’re just craving something hearty and soul-warming, there’s nothing better than a big bowl of Loaded Potato Soup. Creamy, rich, and brimming with flavor, this comforting classic is like a hug in a bowl. Topped with all your baked potato favorites—bacon, cheese, sour cream, and green onions—it’s the kind of meal that satisfies from the inside out.

Whether you're feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or just treating yourself, this recipe is easy to make and guaranteed to hit the spot.

---

Why You’ll Love This Soup:

• ✅ Creamy & Rich without being too heavy

• ✅ Customizable with all your favorite toppings

• ✅ One-pot meal for easy cleanup

• ✅ Comfort food at its best

---

Ingredients:

• 6 slices of bacon

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 4–5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup milk

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)

• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup sour cream

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

• Extra shredded cheese, sour cream, and bacon bits for topping

---

Instructions:

1. Cook the Bacon

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 1–2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pot for flavor.

2. Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

3. Add Potatoes and Broth

Stir in the cubed potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 15–20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.

4. Mash or Blend

For a creamier texture, use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the potatoes in the pot. You can also use an immersion blender for a smoother soup—just don’t overdo it if you like a few chunks for texture.

5. Add Dairy and Cheese

Stir in the milk, cream, sour cream, and shredded cheese. Cook over low heat until cheese is melted and soup is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Top and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon, extra cheese, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

---

Tips & Variations:

• Make it Lighter: Swap heavy cream for whole milk or half-and-half. Use turkey bacon or skip the bacon for a vegetarian version (just use veggie broth instead).

• Add Veggies: Stir in some corn, carrots, or broccoli for extra nutrition and texture.

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.

• Make Ahead: This soup reheats beautifully and can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.

---

Perfect Pairings:

• Crusty Bread or Garlic Toast

• Side Salad with a Tangy Vinaigrette

• Grilled Cheese Sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal

---

Final Thoughts:

Loaded Potato Soup is the kind of meal that brings people to the table and keeps them coming back for seconds. It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with all the toppings that make baked potatoes so irresistible. Whether you serve it as a cozy dinner or a hearty lunch, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home.

So grab your spoon—and maybe a blanket—and dig in. Comfort food doesn’t get much better than this.