Loaded Potato Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Creamy and comforting, this Loaded Potato Soup is the ultimate cozy dish for chilly evenings. Bursting with flavors from tender potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions, it's a hearty bowl of goodness that your family will love. Perfect for a simple weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, this soup is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
This Loaded Potato Soup recipe has been handed down in my family for generations. It's the perfect dish to enjoy on a cold day, bringing both comfort and nourishment.
A Hearty Comfort Food
Loaded Potato Soup is a quintessential comfort food that captures the essence of home-cooked warmth. Each spoonful brings a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it the perfect choice for family dinners or casual gatherings. The creamy broth envelops tender potatoes, while crispy bacon adds a savory crunch that elevates the entire dish. Not only is this soup satisfying, but it also evokes a sense of nostalgia that reminds us of cozy evenings spent around the dinner table.
This delicious soup is not only about taste; it’s also about creating memories. Imagine gathering around with loved ones, sharing stories, and enjoying this hearty bowl of goodness. Plus, it’s an ideal way to coax your kids into eating their veggies! With its rich flavors and appealing ingredients, it’s hard to resist a second helping.
Versatile and Easy to Customize
One of the best aspects of Loaded Potato Soup is its versatility. While the base recipe is already a crowd-pleaser, feel free to make it your own by adding other ingredients. Consider incorporating garlic for a deeper flavor, or throw in some broccoli or cauliflower for an extra nutritional boost. If you're in the mood for something different, swap out the bacon for smoked sausage or ham, and opt for different types of cheese like gouda or pepper jack to give it a unique twist.
Also, this soup lends itself beautifully to meal prep. You can easily prepare a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Store individual portions in the fridge or freezer, and simply reheat when you’re ready for a quick, satisfying meal. It’s not just a delicious dish; it’s a convenient option for busy nights!
Perfect Pairings
Ingredients
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup crispy bacon, chopped
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to gather all the ingredients before starting the cooking process for a smoother experience.
Instructions
Instructions
Cook the Bacon
In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
Add the Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to coat them in the bacon drippings.
Pour in the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream and half of the cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve
Serve warm, garnished with the remaining cheese, bacon, and chopped green onions.
Enjoy your delicious Loaded Potato Soup with a slice of bread or your favorite crackers!
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store your Loaded Potato Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions. Make sure to leave some space in the container as the soup will expand when frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating your soup is easy. You can warm it up on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, use the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure it heats evenly. If the soup has thickened in the fridge, adding a splash of broth or cream while reheating can restore its creamy consistency.
Healthy Alternatives
For those wanting a lighter version of Loaded Potato Soup, consider using low-fat milk or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. This substitution can still provide creaminess while reducing calories. You could also add more vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach to increase nutrition without significantly altering the flavor.
Another way to make this dish healthier is by using turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon alternative. These options can cut down saturated fat and calories while still offering plenty of flavors. By making these simple swaps, you can enjoy a guilt-free version of this classic comfort food without sacrificing any of its delightful taste.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, Loaded Potato Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze Loaded Potato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup, but it may change in texture upon reheating. Use within 2 months.
Loaded Potato Soup
Creamy and comforting, this Loaded Potato Soup is the ultimate cozy dish for chilly evenings. Bursting with flavors from tender potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions, it's a hearty bowl of goodness that your family will love. Perfect for a simple weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, this soup is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
Created by: Violet Hart
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup crispy bacon, chopped
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to coat them in the bacon drippings.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
Stir in the heavy cream and half of the cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve warm, garnished with the remaining cheese, bacon, and chopped green onions.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 8g