Loaded Potato Soup Recipe

If you're in the mood for a rich, comforting bowl of soup, look no further than this Loaded Potato Soup recipe. Creamy, packed with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and topped with cheese, sour cream, and green onions, this soup is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you're serving it as a hearty main dish or a satisfying starter, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Keep reading for step-by-step instructions, tips on substitutions, and expert advice on how to serve and present this delicious soup!

What is Loaded Potato Soup?

Loaded Potato Soup is a creamy, rich soup that features potatoes as the main ingredient, often thickened with cream and topped with classic baked potato toppings like bacon, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and green onions. This soup is perfect for a cold night or whenever you’re in the mood for a satisfying, filling meal. With its creamy base and savory toppings, this soup brings all the flavors of a loaded baked potato into a warm, comforting bowl.

Ingredients List for Loaded Potato Soup

To make this Loaded Potato Soup, you'll need the following ingredients:

1. Potatoes: 4-5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes.
2. Bacon: 6-8 slices of thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy.
3. Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped.
4. Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, minced.
5. Butter: 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
6. Flour: 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour (for thickening).
7. Chicken or Vegetable Broth: 4 cups of low-sodium broth to build the base of the soup.
8. Milk: 2 cups of whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess).
9. Heavy Cream: ½ cup for added richness.
10. Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded.
11. Sour Cream: ½ cup for creaminess and tang.
12. Green Onions: ¼ cup, thinly sliced for garnish.
13. Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
14. Paprika or Smoked Paprika (optional): ½ teaspoon for a slight smoky flavor.

Topping Options:

• Extra shredded cheddar cheese
• Crispy bacon bits
• Sour cream
• Chopped green onions or chives
• Freshly ground black pepper

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of Loaded Potato Soup is that it's easy to customize to fit different dietary needs or preferences. Here are a few common substitutions and variations to consider:

Dairy-Free Option:

• Replace the milk, heavy cream, and sour cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. You can also use dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese altogether and rely on nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Gluten-Free Version:

• Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch in place of all-purpose flour to make the soup gluten-free. Alternatively, you can mash some of the potatoes to thicken the soup naturally, eliminating the need for a flour-based roux.

Vegetarian Variation:

• Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to create a vegetarian-friendly soup. For added flavor, you can top the soup with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli.

Low-Carb/Keto Option:

• For a lower-carb version, swap the potatoes with cauliflower florets. The result will still be creamy and delicious, with fewer carbs.

Extra Veggies:

• Add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or corn to boost the nutritional value of the soup while adding flavor and texture.

Spicy Variation:

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the soup for a spicy kick. You can also top the soup with jalapeños or add a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Loaded Potato Soup is simple and straightforward, and the whole process takes about 40-45 minutes from start to finish. Follow these easy steps to create a creamy, delicious soup that will satisfy your cravings.

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Begin by cooking the bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy. Once the bacon is done, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain and cool. Reserve 2-3 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the pot for added flavor. Once the bacon has cooled, crumble it into small pieces and set aside for later use.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same pot with the reserved bacon grease, add the chopped onion. Cook over medium heat until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Add the butter to the pot with the cooked onions and garlic. Once the butter has melted, sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly to create a roux. Cook the flour and butter mixture for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, but be careful not to let it brown.

Step 4: Add the Potatoes and Broth

Slowly whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, making sure to incorporate the roux thoroughly. Add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let the potatoes cook for about 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender.

Step 5: Blend or Mash the Soup

Once the potatoes are tender, you have two options: use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency, or mash the potatoes with a potato masher for a chunkier soup. If you prefer a completely smooth soup, transfer portions of the soup to a blender and puree in batches.

Step 6: Add the Milk, Cream, and Cheese

After blending or mashing, return the soup to low heat and stir in the milk, heavy cream, and 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Be sure to keep the heat low to avoid scorching the dairy.

Step 7: Season the Soup

Season the soup with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the soup is too thick, add a bit more broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with your favorite toppings, such as extra cheese, crumbled bacon, sour cream, and green onions. Serve the soup hot with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

How to Cook Loaded Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Cook the bacon: Start by crisping the bacon, then set it aside and reserve some of the grease.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Cook the onion and garlic in the reserved bacon grease.
3. Make the roux: Stir in butter and flour to create a roux that will thicken the soup.
4. Cook the potatoes: Add the potatoes and broth, then simmer until the potatoes are tender.
5. Blend or mash: Blend the soup for a smooth texture, or mash the potatoes for a chunkier soup.
6. Add dairy and cheese: Stir in milk, cream, and cheddar cheese for a rich, creamy base.
7. Season and serve: Season to taste and garnish with your favorite toppings before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the potatoes: Be sure to keep an eye on the potatoes while they cook. Overcooking can cause them to break down too much, resulting in a mushy texture.
• Skipping the roux: The roux (butter and flour mixture) is crucial for achieving a thick and creamy soup. Don’t skip this step, as it helps the soup develop a smooth texture.
• Not using enough cheese: Cheese is a key ingredient in Loaded Potato Soup. Be sure to use plenty of sharp cheddar for the best flavor.
• Adding dairy too soon: To prevent the milk and cream from curdling, add them at the end of the cooking process when the heat is lower.

Serving and Presentation Tips

The best part about Loaded Potato Soup is how customizable it is when it comes to serving. Here are some tips to help you serve and present your soup like a pro:

Toppings Galore:

• Cheddar Cheese: Add an extra sprinkle of shredded cheddar on top for a cheesy finish.
• Crispy Bacon: Crumble the bacon you cooked earlier and sprinkle it on top for added crunch.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top adds creaminess and tang.
• Green Onions or Chives: These add a pop of color and freshness.

Serve with Sides:

Pair the soup with crusty bread, garlic bread, or dinner rolls for dipping. A light salad on the side can help balance the richness of the soup.

How to Serve Loaded Potato Soup

Serve Loaded Potato Soup in deep bowls and add your choice of toppings right before serving. The soup pairs perfectly with warm bread, crackers, or even a sandwich for a complete meal. For a fun twist, you can serve the soup in a bread bowl for an extra-special presentation.

Presentation Ideas for Loaded Potato Soup

• Color Contrast: Use bright toppings like green onions, crispy bacon, and shredded cheese to contrast against the creamy white base of the soup.
• Bread Bowls: Hollow out small sourdough or other round bread loaves and serve the soup inside for a rustic presentation.
• Cheese Pull: Melt extra cheese on top of the soup and serve it hot, allowing for an irresistible cheese pull with each spoonful.

Loaded Potato Soup Recipe Tips

• Prep ahead: Dice the potatoes and chop the bacon and green onions ahead of time to make cooking easier.
• Leftovers: Store leftover soup in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra broth or milk to thin it out if needed.
• Freezing: For best results, freeze the soup without the dairy. When reheating, stir in the milk, cream, and cheese just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Loaded Potato Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! To make this soup in a slow cooker, cook the bacon separately, then add all the ingredients (except dairy and cheese) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Blend or mash the soup, then stir in the dairy and cheese at the end.

How do I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?

If the soup is too thin, you can mash more of the potatoes or create a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stirring it into the soup. Simmer until the soup thickens.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, while russet potatoes are traditional for this recipe, you can use Yukon gold or red potatoes for a slightly different texture. Keep in mind that russets break down more, making the soup creamier, while other potatoes may hold their shape better.

How long does Loaded Potato Soup last in the fridge?

Loaded Potato Soup can last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, and add a little extra broth if it thickens too much in the fridge.

Conclusion

Loaded Potato Soup is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Creamy, flavorful, and packed with all the best toppings, it's a dish that's sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you serve it as a main course or alongside a salad and bread, this recipe will become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy your cozy bowl of goodness!

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