Loaded Potato Soup Recipe

Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that's both hearty and delicious? Look no further! This Loaded Potato Soup recipe is your go-to comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you need a bowl of creamy goodness. This article will guide you through every step of making this savory dish, offering tips and tricks to ensure your soup turns out perfect every time. Keep reading to discover how to create the ultimate Loaded Potato Soup that will have everyone asking for seconds!

this Recipe

What is Loaded Potato Soup?

Loaded Potato Soup is a rich and creamy dish packed with all the comforting flavors of a classic baked potato. Imagine tender potatoes, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream—all combined into a thick, velvety soup. The term "loaded" comes from the idea that this soup is filled with all the toppings you'd find on a fully-loaded baked potato, making it a complete meal in a bowl.

Ingredients List for Loaded Potato Soup

Before diving into the cooking process, gather all your ingredients to make this delicious soup. Having everything prepped and ready will make the cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Primary Ingredients:

• 6 large Russet potatoes: Peeled and diced into small cubes.
• 1 large onion: Finely chopped.
• 4 cloves garlic: Minced.
• 6 cups chicken broth: Low-sodium is recommended.
• 2 cups heavy cream: For that extra creamy texture.
• 1 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess to the soup.
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese: Shredded.
• 8 slices bacon: Cooked and crumbled.
• 4 tablespoons butter: Unsalted.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
• 2 tablespoons flour: For thickening the soup.
• 3 green onions: Chopped, for garnish.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Optional, for a smoky kick.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about Loaded Potato Soup is its versatility. Whether you're catering to dietary preferences or simply missing an ingredient, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try.

• Potatoes: If you're looking for a lower-carb option, cauliflower can be used instead of potatoes. Simply steam the cauliflower and follow the same steps as you would with potatoes.
• Dairy-Free: Swap out the heavy cream and sour cream for coconut milk and a dairy-free yogurt. The flavor will change slightly, but it will still be deliciously creamy.
• Cheese: If you're out of cheddar, you can use Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend of cheeses.
• Bacon: For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add crispy roasted chickpeas or smoked tofu for a similar texture and flavor.
• Spices: Experiment with different spices like cayenne pepper for heat or rosemary for a more aromatic soup.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Loaded Potato Soup from scratch might seem daunting, but with these detailed step-by-step instructions, you'll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up this cozy dish.

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small, even cubes. This ensures they cook evenly and create a smooth texture in the soup. Once diced, set the potatoes aside in a bowl of cold water to prevent them from browning.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy and golden brown. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, reserving the bacon fat in the pot.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Add the butter to the pot with the reserved bacon fat. Once the butter has melted, add the chopped onions and sauté over medium heat until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Step 4: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste. This step is crucial for thickening the soup and giving it that creamy consistency.

Step 5: Add the Potatoes and Broth

Drain the diced potatoes and add them to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the potatoes are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 6: Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half the mixture. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, blending until smooth and returning it to the pot.

Step 7: Add the Dairy and Cheese

Stir in the heavy cream, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.

Step 8: Add the Bacon

Stir in most of the crumbled bacon, reserving a small amount for garnish. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 9: Taste and Adjust

Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or cheese depending on your preference.

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

Now that you've got the basic instructions down, let's go through the process in a more detailed, step-by-step guide. This will help ensure your Loaded Potato Soup turns out just right, whether it's your first time making it or you're a seasoned pro.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Ensure all your ingredients are prepped and measured before you start cooking. This includes peeling and dicing the potatoes, chopping the onions and garlic, and shredding the cheese.

Step 2: Start with the Bacon

The bacon not only adds flavor to the soup but also provides the fat needed to sauté the onions and garlic. Make sure to cook the bacon until it’s crisp, as this will make it easier to crumble later.

Step 3: Build the Base

Sautéing the onions and garlic in bacon fat and butter forms the flavorful base of the soup. Cooking the flour into this mixture creates a roux, which thickens the soup and gives it that luxurious, creamy texture.

Step 4: Cook the Potatoes

When adding the potatoes and broth, make sure the potatoes are fully submerged. Simmering them slowly allows them to cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the broth.

Step 5: Achieve the Perfect Consistency

Blending the soup gives it that smooth, velvety texture. If you prefer some chunks, only blend half the soup. This step is where you can control the texture to your liking.

Step 6: Finish with Dairy and Bacon

Adding the heavy cream, sour cream, and cheese at the end ensures they don’t curdle or separate. Stirring them in slowly while the soup is at a low simmer helps achieve a smooth, creamy finish. The bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch that balances the creaminess of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the most experienced cooks can make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for when making Loaded Potato Soup:

• Overcooking the Potatoes: If the potatoes are overcooked, they can become mushy and lose their texture, resulting in a soup that’s more like mashed potatoes. Keep an eye on them and test with a fork for doneness.
• Not Cooking the Roux Long Enough: If the roux (flour and fat mixture) isn’t cooked long enough, your soup might have a raw flour taste. Make sure to stir the flour into the fat for at least 2 minutes.
• Curdling the Dairy: Adding cream or sour cream at too high a temperature can cause it to curdle. Always add these ingredients at a low simmer and stir continuously.
• Under-seasoning: Potatoes can absorb a lot of salt, so make sure to taste and adjust your seasoning before serving.

Serving and Presentation Tips

The way you serve and present your Loaded Potato Soup can elevate the dining experience. Here’s how to do it right.

How to Serve Loaded Potato Soup

Serve your soup hot, preferably right after cooking. Use deep bowls to help retain the heat, and make sure each bowl gets a generous helping of bacon, cheese, and green onion garnish.

Presentation Ideas for Loaded Potato Soup

• Top with a Dollop of Sour Cream: Adding a spoonful of sour cream to the center of the bowl not only enhances the flavor but also adds a nice visual contrast.
• Sprinkle with Extra Cheese and Bacon: A little extra cheese and a sprinkle of bacon on top make the soup look indulgent and irresistible.
• Use Crusty Bread as a Side: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping. It’s a simple addition that complements the soup perfectly.

Loaded Potato Soup Recipe Tips

To ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time, here are a few additional tips:

• Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day. Make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to thin it out if needed.
• Freeze for Later: Loaded Potato Soup freezes well. Store in airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
• Garnish Last Minute: Add garnishes like bacon, cheese, and green onions just before serving to keep them crisp and fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of potato?
A: Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes can be used, but Russet potatoes are recommended for their starchy, fluffy texture.

Q: How can I make this soup gluten-free?
A: Simply replace the flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Cook the bacon, onions, and garlic on the stovetop first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Q: What if I don't have an immersion blender?
A: You can use a regular blender, but be sure to blend the soup in batches to avoid overfilling and causing a mess.

Q: Is it okay to leave the soup chunky?
A: Yes, some people prefer a chunkier texture. Blend only half the soup or mash the potatoes lightly with a potato masher.

Conclusion

Loaded Potato Soup is the epitome of comfort food—rich, creamy, and full of flavor. With this detailed guide, you now have everything you need to make this classic dish perfectly every time. Whether you're serving it for a family dinner, a casual lunch, or storing it for later, this soup is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy a bowl of Loaded Potato Soup that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Happy cooking!

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