Loaded Potato Soup Recipe

Craving something warm, comforting, and utterly indulgent? This Loaded Potato Soup is a rich, creamy, and hearty dish that is sure to hit the spot! Packed with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and garnished with all your favorite toppings, this soup is like a loaded baked potato in a bowl. Follow this comprehensive guide to make a perfect pot of Loaded Potato Soup, complete with tips, variations, and serving suggestions to impress your family or guests.

this Recipe

What is Loaded Potato Soup?

Loaded Potato Soup is a thick, creamy soup that takes the flavors of a classic loaded baked potato and turns them into a comforting bowl of goodness. The soup base is made from tender potatoes, onions, and garlic cooked in a creamy broth, then blended to perfection. It's topped with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh herbs for that authentic "loaded" potato experience. This soup is filling enough to be served as a main dish and is perfect for cold nights, game-day gatherings, or simply when you’re in the mood for something deliciously indulgent.

Ingredients List for Loaded Potato Soup

Before diving into the recipe, gather all the necessary ingredients. Here's a list of what you'll need to create this rich and satisfying soup:

• 6 medium russet potatoes (peeled and cubed)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 4 cloves of garlic (minced)
• 4 cups of chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 1 ½ cups of whole milk (or cream for a richer texture)
• 1 cup of sour cream (or Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative)
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar for the best flavor)
• 6 strips of bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• 3 tablespoons of butter
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: green onions or chives (for garnish)
• Optional: a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper (for extra flavor)

Ingredients List for Toppings and Add-ons

The toppings are what make Loaded Potato Soup stand out! Here are some ideas for customizing your bowl:

• Extra crispy bacon for an added crunch.
• More shredded cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy finish.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt for added tang.
• Chopped green onions or chives to brighten up the dish.
• Croutons for a crispy texture.
• Hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Steamed broccoli or cauliflower if you want to sneak in more veggies.

Substitutions and Variations

Looking to tweak the recipe to suit your dietary needs or preferences? Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and skip the bacon. You can add roasted mushrooms or smoked tofu for a meaty texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the soup.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute dairy milk with almond milk or coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
• Lighter Version: Use low-fat milk and swap sour cream for Greek yogurt to reduce the calorie content without sacrificing flavor.
• Loaded Sweet Potato Soup: Swap russet potatoes for sweet potatoes for a sweeter, more nutrient-dense twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s a detailed guide on how to make Loaded Potato Soup:

1. Prep the Ingredients: Begin by peeling and cubing your potatoes. Set them aside. Finely chop the onion and garlic, and cook the bacon strips until crispy. Once the bacon is cooked, crumble it and set aside for later.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to let it burn.
3. Add the Potatoes and Broth: Add the cubed potatoes to the pot along with the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Make the Roux: In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and whisk in the flour. Cook the flour mixture for about 2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste, then slowly whisk in the milk or cream. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, then remove it from the heat.
5. Mash or Blend the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are fully cooked, use a potato masher to mash them directly in the pot for a chunkier texture. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender or transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Be sure to leave some texture, so you still get chunks of potato in every bite.
6. Combine the Ingredients: Stir the roux (butter-flour mixture) into the pot of soup. Then, add the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream, stirring until everything is melted and well-combined. Let the soup simmer on low for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Season and Adjust Consistency: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. If the soup is too thick, you can add a bit more broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.

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

1. Sauté the onions and garlic to build a flavorful base.
2. Cook the potatoes in broth until tender, ensuring they are soft enough to mash or blend.
3. Prepare the roux to thicken the soup and create a creamy texture.
4. Blend the potatoes for your preferred consistency—smooth, chunky, or somewhere in between.
5. Add cheese and sour cream to give the soup a rich, loaded potato flavor.
6. Top with crispy bacon, cheese, and other toppings to complete your Loaded Potato Soup masterpiece!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make sure your Loaded Potato Soup turns out perfect, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Overcooking the Potatoes: If you overcook the potatoes, they may break down too much, resulting in a mushy or gummy texture.
• Not Using a Roux: Skipping the roux can leave your soup thin and watery. Make sure to use flour or a gluten-free alternative to thicken the soup.
• Curdling the Dairy: Adding cheese or sour cream at too high of a temperature can cause the dairy to curdle. Always lower the heat before adding these ingredients and stir continuously.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Potatoes can be bland on their own, so be sure to season the soup well with salt and pepper. Taste as you go!
• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly into the soup. For best results, grate your own cheese.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Here’s how you can make your Loaded Potato Soup look as amazing as it tastes:

1. Top with Garnishes: Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar, crispy bacon bits, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh chives or green onions on top of each bowl.
2. Serve with Bread: Offer warm, crusty bread or garlic toast on the side for dipping.
3. Use a Ladle for Consistent Portions: A large ladle ensures each bowl gets the right amount of chunky potato goodness.
4. Serve in Fun Bowls: For a rustic touch, serve the soup in bread bowls or heavy ceramic soup bowls.
5. Drizzle with Sour Cream or Hot Sauce: Add a swirl of sour cream or a dash of hot sauce on top of each serving for extra visual appeal and flavor.

How to Serve Loaded Potato Soup

Loaded Potato Soup is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a few accompaniments. You can serve it with a side salad, garlic bread, or even in a bread bowl for a more decadent experience. Top the soup with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of green onions or chives for a burst of color and flavor. Don't forget a side of sour cream or hot sauce for those who like to customize their bowl!

Presentation Ideas for Loaded Potato Soup

• Bread Bowl: Serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a fun and edible serving dish.
• Elegant Touch: Serve in small, individual cups or bowls for an appetizer at a dinner party.
• Layer Garnishes: Arrange toppings in neat layers for a professional finish—start with cheese, then bacon, then a dollop of sour cream, finishing with green onions.

Loaded Potato Soup Recipe Tips

• For a smoother soup: Blend all of the soup for a velvety texture, but reserve some potato chunks if you like a heartier bite.
• Control the consistency: If the soup is too thick, thin it out with more broth or milk. If too thin, let it simmer uncovered until it thickens.
• Freeze leftovers: This soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Reheat gently over low heat to avoid separating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can! Cook the potatoes, broth, onions, and garlic in the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Afterward, blend the soup and stir in the cream, cheese, and sour cream.

Q: Can I use other types of potatoes?
A: Yes, Yukon Gold potatoes work well for a creamier texture. Sweet potatoes can also be used for a unique twist.

Q: Can I freeze Loaded Potato Soup?
A: Yes, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing due to the dairy. It’s best to freeze without the dairy and add it when reheating.

Q: How do I reheat this soup?
A: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a bit of broth or milk to loosen it up.

Conclusion

Loaded Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or when you just need a big, warm bowl of deliciousness. Creamy, rich, and packed with the flavors of crispy bacon, melted cheese, and tender potatoes, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Follow the steps above to create a satisfying bowl of soup that you can customize with all your favorite toppings. Don't forget to experiment with variations, and enjoy every spoonful!

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