It was a chilly autumn evening when I decided to whip up a batch of my famous loaded potato soup. As I stood in the kitchen, chopping the potatoes and sautéing the onions, the familiar aroma of the dish instantly transported me back to my childhood. You see, this recipe has been a staple in our family for as long as I can remember, and it always brings us together in the most comforting way.
Growing up, my mom would make this loaded potato soup whenever we needed a little extra warmth and comfort. Whether it was after a long day at school or on a cozy weekend, the mere sight of that creamy, indulgent soup simmering on the stove was enough to put a smile on all our faces. I can still picture my siblings and I gathering around the table, eagerly waiting to dive in and savor every spoonful of the rich, flavorful broth and the tender, perfectly-cooked potatoes.
To this day, whenever I make a batch of this loaded potato soup, it’s like I’m transported back to those cherished family moments. It’s more than just a recipe – it’s a tradition, a comfort, and a way to bring loved ones together. And that’s why I’m so excited to share this special dish with you. Let’s dive in and discover the secret behind the perfect loaded potato soup!
Why This Loaded Potato Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
This loaded potato soup is truly a cut above the rest. What sets it apart is the perfect balance of flavors and textures that come together in every bite. The secret lies in the way we prepare the potatoes, the richness of the creamy broth, and the generous toppings that elevate the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
The Secret Behind Perfect Loaded Potato Soup
One of the key elements that makes this loaded potato soup so special is the way we handle the potatoes. Instead of simply boiling them, we roast them first to develop a deeper, more complex flavor. This extra step may take a little more time, but it’s well worth it – the result is a silky-smooth, velvety texture that simply melts in your mouth.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
– Russet potatoes: These hearty spuds are the star of the show, providing the base for the creamy, comforting soup.
– Bacon: Crispy, smoky bacon adds an irresistible savory note and a satisfying crunch.
– Cheddar cheese: A generous helping of shredded cheddar cheese creates that classic loaded baked potato flavor.
– Sour cream: A dollop of cool, tangy sour cream balances out the richness of the soup.
– Chives: Fresh chives add a pop of color and a delicate onion-y flavor.
– Heavy cream: This luxurious ingredient gives the soup its velvety, indulgent texture.
Step-by-Step Loaded Potato Soup Instructions
Preparing this loaded potato soup is surprisingly easy, and the results are so worth it. It’s the perfect dish to whip up on a cozy night when you’re craving something comforting and satisfying. Let’s walk through the step-by-step process together.
Preparing Your Loaded Potato Soup
To get started, you’ll need about an hour of total time to prepare this loaded potato soup. The active cooking time is around 30 minutes, and the rest of the time is dedicated to roasting the potatoes and allowing the flavors to meld. You’ll also want to have a large pot, a baking sheet, and a hand blender or regular blender on hand.
1- Preheat your oven to 400°F and roast the diced potatoes on a baking sheet for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re tender and golden brown.
2- In a large pot, cook the bacon until crispy, then remove it from the pan and set it aside, reserving the bacon grease.
3- Sauté the onions in the bacon grease until they’re translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4- Add the roasted potatoes to the pot and use a hand blender to partially puree the mixture, leaving some chunks for texture.
5- Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and seasonings, and let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6- Ladle the loaded potato soup into bowls and top with the crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh chives.
Pro Tips for Success
The key to nailing this loaded potato soup is to not overcook the potatoes. You want them to be tender but still hold their shape, and roasting them is the secret to achieving that perfect texture. Additionally, be mindful of the amount of broth you use – you want a thick, creamy consistency, but not a stew-like texture.
Serving and Storing Your Loaded Potato Soup
This loaded potato soup is the ultimate comfort food, and it’s the perfect dish to enjoy on a chilly day. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or as a hearty starter, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Perfect Pairings for Loaded Potato Soup
To make this loaded potato soup a complete meal, consider serving it with a fresh green salad, crusty bread, or a crisp, refreshing white wine. For a heartier option, you can pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich or a warm, flaky biscuit.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover loaded potato soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the soup in a saucepan and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months, making it a great option for meal prepping.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Loaded Potato Soup
While this classic loaded potato soup is a true crowd-pleaser, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on the dish or adapt it to suit various dietary needs.
Creative Loaded Potato Soup Variations
Try swapping out the bacon for crispy pancetta or prosciutto, or experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or blue cheese. You can also add diced ham, sautéed mushrooms, or chopped scallions for extra flavor and texture.
Making Loaded Potato Soup Diet-Friendly
To make this soup gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the broth. For a vegan version, omit the dairy products and use a plant-based milk and vegan cheese. To reduce the carb count, you can replace some of the potatoes with cauliflower or turnips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of potato besides russets?
A: While russet potatoes are the traditional choice for loaded potato soup, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that the texture and cooking time may vary slightly.
Q: How can I make the soup extra creamy?
A: To achieve an even creamier texture, you can puree a portion of the roasted potatoes before adding them back to the pot. You can also stir in a bit of extra heavy cream or cream cheese.
Q: Can I make this soup in advance?
A: Absolutely! Loaded potato soup is a great make-ahead dish. Simply prepare the soup and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stovetop and top with the crispy bacon, cheese, and chives.
Q: How can I adjust the serving size?
A: This recipe makes about 6 servings, but you can easily scale it up or down to accommodate your needs. As a general rule, plan for about 1 cup of soup per serving.
Q: What if my soup turns out too thick?
A: If your loaded potato soup ends up being too thick, you can thin it out by adding a bit more chicken broth or milk, a splash at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
Heavenly Loaded Potato Soup
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 6
Description
This loaded potato soup is a creamy, comforting, and delicious dish that’s perfect for chilly days. It’s packed with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh chives for a truly indulgent experience.
Ingredients
– 3 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. – In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. – Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
3. – Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it’s creamy and smooth.
4. – Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. – Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped chives.
Notes
For a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes with a potato masher after blending. You can also add sour cream or chives as additional toppings.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This loaded potato soup is the ultimate comfort food, and I can’t wait for you to try it. The combination of roasted potatoes, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and tangy sour cream is simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving it up for a cozy family dinner or impressing your guests at a dinner party, this recipe is sure to become a new go-to in your household.
So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s get cooking! I know this loaded potato soup is going to bring your loved ones together, just like it has for my family for years. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out – I’d love to hear your thoughts and see your creations!
