why make this recipe
Loaded Potato Soup is a warm and comforting dish that is perfect for chilly days. It combines the rich flavors of potatoes, cheese, and bacon, making it a hearty meal that everyone will love. This soup is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family. Its smooth texture and savory taste make it an instant favorite, and you can customize it with your favorite toppings.
how to make Loaded Potato Soup
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup butter
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Directions:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the onion until translucent.
- Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Mash some of the potatoes in the soup to thicken it.
- Stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon.
- Continue to cook until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions and additional bacon if desired.
how to serve Loaded Potato Soup
Serve Loaded Potato Soup hot in bowls. You can add extra toppings like additional bacon bits, shredded cheese, or sliced green onions for added flavor and presentation. This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a simple salad on the side.
how to store Loaded Potato Soup
To store Loaded Potato Soup, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you need to store it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to let it cool before placing it in the freezer. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
tips to make Loaded Potato Soup
- Choose starchy potatoes like Russets for a creamier texture.
- You can add more vegetables, like carrots or celery, for added nutrition.
- If you like spicy flavors, consider adding some hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
- For a smoky flavor, use smoked bacon or pancetta.
- Blend the soup with a hand blender for a smoother consistency if desired.
variation
You can easily switch things up by adding different toppings such as sour cream, jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of herbs like parsley or thyme. For a lighter version, you can substitute milk for heavy cream or use reduced-fat cheese.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the bacon. You can also add extra vegetables for flavor.
2. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
This recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth and check the cheese label.
3. Can I use leftover baked potatoes for this soup?
Absolutely! Leftover baked potatoes can add extra flavor and simplicity. Just cube them and add them to the pot with the broth.
4. Can I freeze Loaded Potato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze it. Allow the soup to cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers. It should last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
5. How can I thicken the soup more?
If you want a thicker soup, you can mash more potatoes or add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water to the boiling soup.
Loaded Potato Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A warm and comforting soup loaded with rich flavors of potatoes, cheese, and bacon, perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup butter
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the onion until translucent.
- Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Mash some of the potatoes in the soup to thicken it.
- Stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon.
- Continue to cook until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions and additional bacon if desired.
Notes
Add extra toppings like bacon bits, shredded cheese, or sliced green onions for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
