This creamy Loaded Potato Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and cheesy goodness, it’s a comforting dish perfect for chilly days.
Honestly, I can never resist topping mine with extra cheese and green onions—because more is always better, right? 😋 It’s easy to make, and it warms you up from the inside out!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: This adds a delicious smoky flavor. Feel free to use turkey bacon or even tempeh bacon for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Potatoes: Russets are preferred for their fluffy texture, but you can also use Yukon Golds for a creamier soup. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, cauliflower works well as a substitute.
Onion & Garlic: These provide great depth to the flavor. If you’re not a fan of onions, you can skip them but add a bit more garlic. You might also use shallots for a milder taste.
Cheese: Cheddar gives that classic taste—mix in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little kick. If dairy-free, there are excellent vegan cheese options!
Sour Cream: Adds creaminess; Greek yogurt is a fantastic swap if you’re looking for a healthier choice.
How Do I Get My Potatoes Soft But Not Mushy?
Cooking the potatoes just right is key! Here’s how to do it:
- Dice potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and then lower the heat to simmer; this slow cooking helps ingredients meld without overcooking.
- Check with a fork after 15 minutes. If the potatoes are tender, they’re done! You want them soft enough to mash a bit but still holding their shape.
This method helps achieve that creamy texture while keeping some potato chunks for heartiness! Happy cooking!
Loaded Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Loaded Potato Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to cook, making a total of about 40 minutes before you can enjoy your hearty bowl of goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until it becomes crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease. Once it’s cool enough, crumble the bacon and set it aside. Make sure to leave about 1-2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the pot for flavor!
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
Add the diced onion to the remaining bacon fat in the pot. Sauté the onion until it becomes soft and translucent, which will take about 4-5 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s nice and fragrant.
3. Add Potatoes and Broth:
Now it’s time for the star of the show! Add the diced potatoes to the pot, along with the chicken broth, salt, pepper, and dried parsley (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Mash for Texture:
After the potatoes are cooked, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to partially mash some of the potatoes in the soup. This will give it a creamy texture while still keeping some chunks for heartiness.
5. Add Cheese and Cream:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s completely melted and the soup is smooth. Next, add in the sour cream and milk (or half-and-half) and stir to combine. Heat it gently; make sure not to boil the soup to avoid curdling. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once everything is combined and heated through, serve the soup hot! Top each bowl generously with crumbled bacon, extra cheese, and chopped green onions for a vibrant finishing touch.
Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of Loaded Potato Soup!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are ideal for their fluffy texture, you can also use Yukon Golds for creaminess. For a lower-carb alternative, try using cauliflower instead!
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for that smoky flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’re all set!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove when ready to enjoy!
What If I Don’t Have Half-and-Half?
No worries! You can substitute half-and-half with a mixture of milk and cream (1:1 ratio), or just use milk alone for a lighter version. For a creamier texture, heavy cream is a good option as well.
