This creamy loaded potato soup is packed with chunks of tender potatoes and crispy bacon bits. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days!
I love how easy it is to whip up and customize with toppings like cheese and green onions. Each spoonful is so cozy, you might just forget your worries! 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: This adds crucial flavor and a nice crunch. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use turkey bacon or even a smoky plant-based substitute.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for their starchy texture, which thickens the soup. If you prefer, Yukon Golds work well too, offering a creamier texture.
Broth: Chicken broth enhances the flavor, but vegetable broth is a great swap if you’re vegetarian. Homemade broth can elevate the soup even more!
Milk or Half-and-Half: For a lighter version, you can use skim milk or almond milk. If you want extra creaminess, heavy cream works too but may make the soup richer.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides a nice punch of flavor. Feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or Gouda for a different twist, or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Make the Soup Creamy Without Overdoing It?
To get that creamy texture while keeping the dish balanced, partially blending the soup is key. Here’s how to do it:
- After the potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender in the pot to blend some of the mixture while leaving chunks intact. This gives a hearty mouthfeel.
- If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully blend half the soup in batches in a traditional blender. Just remember to let it cool a bit to avoid splattering!
- Adding milk and cheese gradually as you stir helps prevent curdling. Heat gently, avoiding boiling.
By following these steps, you’ll achieve a delightful, creamy loaded potato soup perfect for any season!
How to Make Loaded Potato Soup With Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Soup:
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups peeled and diced russet potatoes (about 2 lbs)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 cup sour cream, plus extra for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Optional: toasted bread or crackers for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This loaded potato soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of about 40 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that is perfect for those cozy nights in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s nice and crisp. Once crispy, take the bacon out and let it drain on some paper towels. Then, chop the bacon into small bits. Make sure to keep 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the pot for added flavor!
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Add the finely chopped onion to the pot with the reserved bacon fat. Sauté over medium heat until the onion is soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it smells delicious!
3. Add the Potatoes and Broth:
Now, it’s time to add the diced potatoes to the pot along with the chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook until the potatoes are tender, which should be around 15-20 minutes.
4. Blend the Soup:
Once the potatoes are nice and soft, take an immersion blender and puree the soup partially. You want to leave some potato chunks for a great texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can also blend half of the soup in small batches using a regular blender, then return it back to the pot.
5. Make it Creamy:
Stir in the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream into the pot. Heat everything gently until the cheese is melted and the soup is super creamy. This will take about 5 minutes—just don’t let it boil!
6. Season and Serve:
Now it’s time to season your soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and finish it off with the crispy bacon bits, extra cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and sliced green onions on top. Yum!
7. Enjoy!
Serve the soup hot alongside toasted bread or crackers if you like. Dive into your bowl of comfort with this delightful loaded potato soup!
Enjoy your warm and comforting loaded potato soup garnished beautifully with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and fresh green onions! It’s sure to be a hit with everyone!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are ideal for their starchiness, you can also use Yukon Golds for a creamier texture, or red potatoes for a firmer bite. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed based on the type of potato you choose!
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, simply substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or omit it entirely. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and for a vegan option, replace the sour cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives.
What Are Some Good Toppings for This Soup?
Besides bacon and cheese, you can top your loaded potato soup with crispy fried onions, diced tomatoes, jalapeños for a kick, or even fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor. The possibilities are endless!
