The Best Homemade Loaded Potato Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy the ultimate comfort food with this rich and creamy loaded potato soup, packed with flavor and topped with all your favorite garnishes!
This loaded potato soup recipe brings together the comforting flavors of creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheese. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a hearty meal!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that warms your soul
- Loaded with toppings for a satisfying experience
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners
The Comfort of Homemade Soup
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s loaded with hearty ingredients. Homemade loaded potato soup is a classic dish that brings warmth and joy to the table, making it a perfect choice for chilly evenings or family gatherings. The combination of creamy potatoes, flavorful broth, and rich toppings creates a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
When you make soup from scratch, you have full control over the ingredients, allowing you to tailor it to your family's preferences. Plus, there’s a sense of accomplishment that comes from creating such a beloved dish in your own kitchen. This loaded potato soup is not only delicious, but it also fills your home with a delightful aroma that will have everyone eagerly gathering around the dinner table.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best aspects of loaded potato soup is its versatility. You can easily modify the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. For a healthier twist, consider using low-fat milk instead of heavy cream or swapping out some of the potatoes for cauliflower. Adding vegetables like carrots or celery can boost the nutritional value while enhancing the flavor profile.
Toppings are where you can truly get creative! While crispy bacon and shredded cheese are classic choices, you can also experiment with toppings like sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños for a spicy kick, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for added depth. This flexibility makes it easy to please picky eaters or accommodate various food preferences.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party, preparing a comforting meal for your family, or needing a quick weeknight meal, loaded potato soup fits the bill. Its rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both adults and children alike. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal that will leave everyone feeling satisfied.
Additionally, this soup is excellent for meal prep! You can make a big batch and store it in the refrigerator or freezer, making it easy to reheat for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just be sure to hold off on adding fresh toppings until you’re ready to serve for the best flavor and texture.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Toppings
- Crispy bacon bits
- Chopped green onions
- More shredded cheese
- Sour cream
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth process.
Instructions
Prepare the Potatoes
In a large pot, add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Cook Until Tender
Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Blend and Cream
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
Season and Serve
Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with crispy bacon, green onions, more cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
Enjoy your delicious homemade loaded potato soup!
Storing and Reheating Loaded Potato Soup
To store leftover loaded potato soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or you can freeze it for up to 3 months. If freezing, consider portioning it into smaller containers for easy reheating.
When you're ready to enjoy your soup again, reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened during storage, you can add a splash of chicken broth or milk to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Nutritional Benefits of Loaded Potato Soup
Loaded potato soup is not only delicious but can also be nutritious, especially when made with wholesome ingredients. Potatoes are a good source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and dietary fiber. When combined with fresh toppings like green onions and sour cream, you add even more nutrients and flavor to the dish.
By incorporating lean proteins like turkey bacon or adding vegetables, you can enhance the nutritional profile further, making this soup a balanced option for any meal. It's a great way to sneak in some extra veggies for those who may be reluctant to eat them otherwise.
Pairing Suggestions
To elevate your loaded potato soup experience, consider pairing it with complementary side dishes. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup. You might also try serving it with warm, crusty bread or homemade garlic bread for a satisfying meal.
For beverage pairings, a light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, can balance the richness of the soup nicely. Alternatively, a non-alcoholic sparkling water with a twist of lemon can also be a delightful choice to cleanse your palate between bites.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the soup and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
→ Can I freeze loaded potato soup?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or coconut cream as a lighter alternative.
→ Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Use vegetable broth and omit the bacon for a delicious vegetarian version.
The Best Homemade Loaded Potato Soup
Enjoy the ultimate comfort food with this rich and creamy loaded potato soup, packed with flavor and topped with all your favorite garnishes!
Created by: Olivia Bennett
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Toppings
- Crispy bacon bits
- Chopped green onions
- More shredded cheese
- Sour cream
How-To Steps
In a large pot, add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with crispy bacon, green onions, more cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 10g