Loaded Potato Soup Recipe

Loaded potato soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with hearty flavors. Whether you're looking to warm up on a chilly day or serve a crowd-pleasing dish, this recipe hits all the right notes. With savory bacon, creamy potatoes, and a mix of delicious toppings, every spoonful of this soup is sure to delight. Dive into this detailed guide on how to make the perfect loaded potato soup, packed with essential tips, substitutions, and presentation ideas. Keep reading to discover how you can create a restaurant-worthy bowl right in your kitchen!

What Is Loaded Potato Soup?

Loaded potato soup is a thick, creamy soup made from potatoes and enhanced with all the toppings you’d expect on a classic loaded baked potato. This includes crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, and a variety of other tasty ingredients. The rich base of the soup comes from the combination of milk, broth, and butter, creating a smooth, velvety texture that makes every bite satisfying. The best part? It’s easy to customize to suit your preferences, whether you're after a lighter or more decadent version.

Ingredients List for Loaded Potato Soup

To make this savory and hearty loaded potato soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes – Peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes. Russet potatoes are the best choice due to their starchy, creamy texture when cooked.
• 6 slices of bacon – Cooked until crispy and crumbled.
• 1 medium onion – Diced finely to blend seamlessly into the soup.
• 3 cloves garlic – Minced for a rich, aromatic flavor.
• 4 cups chicken broth – Provides depth and savoriness to the soup base.
• 2 cups whole milk – Creates a creamy, rich texture. You can use half-and-half for an even thicker consistency.
• 1 cup sour cream – Adds tanginess and creaminess.
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – For that melty, cheesy goodness.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness to the soup.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the soup.
• Salt and pepper – To taste.
• ½ cup chopped green onions (scallions) – For garnish.
• Additional toppings – Optional, like extra cheese, bacon bits, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.

Ingredients List for Variations and Substitutions

If you want to change things up or accommodate dietary restrictions, here are some alternatives and variations:

• Substitute potatoes: While russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamier texture or if you prefer not to peel the skin.
• Bacon alternatives: If you don't eat pork, consider using turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon substitute. They both crisp up nicely and add that salty crunch.
• Dairy-free: Replace the milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk, and opt for a dairy-free cheese alternative. Swap sour cream for a cashew-based or soy version.
• Lighter option: Use low-fat milk, reduced-fat sour cream, and lean turkey bacon to lighten the dish without sacrificing flavor.
• Extra veggies: For added nutrition, throw in some chopped carrots, celery, or spinach. These will blend well and add texture to your soup.

Substitutions and Variations

Sometimes you might not have all the ingredients on hand, or you might want to tweak the recipe based on your dietary preferences. Below are a few simple substitutions and variations that still keep your soup delicious:

• Vegetarian loaded potato soup: Skip the bacon and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth. Add sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies to enhance the flavor.
• Gluten-free version: Instead of using all-purpose flour, thicken your soup with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients, like broth and toppings, are gluten-free as well.
• Spicy twist: If you like your meals with a little heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to your soup. A sprinkle of hot sauce when serving can also elevate the flavor.
• Extra cheesy: Amp up the cheese flavor by adding a mix of cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Follow these step-by-step instructions to whip up a mouthwatering pot of loaded potato soup:

1. Cook the bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot. Crumble the bacon once cooled, and set aside for garnish.
2. Sauté onions and garlic: In the same pot, add diced onions and cook them in the bacon fat for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, to avoid burning the garlic.
3. Prepare the roux: Add the butter to the onions and garlic, letting it melt completely. Sprinkle the flour into the mixture and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the flour is fully incorporated. This step helps to thicken the soup.
4. Add the broth and potatoes: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring. Add the diced potatoes, ensuring they’re fully submerged in the broth. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Mash some of the potatoes: For a creamier texture, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash a portion of the potatoes while leaving some chunks intact for texture.
6. Add milk and sour cream: Stir in the milk and sour cream, ensuring everything is well blended. Let the soup cook for another 5-10 minutes until it’s warmed through. Do not let it boil, as this can cause the milk to curdle.
7. Cheese time!: Remove the pot from heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the soup, making it rich and creamy.
8. Season to taste: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning based on your preferences.
9. Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon, extra cheddar cheese, green onions, and any other preferred toppings.

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

Cooking loaded potato soup is simple when broken down into key steps:

1. Start with the bacon – Cooking the bacon first gives you flavorful fat to sauté the onions and garlic in.
2. Build the base – A roux of butter and flour helps thicken the soup.
3. Cook the potatoes until tender – Be careful not to overcook, or the potatoes may become mushy.
4. Mash for texture – This step adds creaminess while leaving chunks for heartiness.
5. Finish with dairy and cheese – Adding milk, sour cream, and cheese gives the soup its signature creamy consistency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the potatoes: This can make them mushy, resulting in a less-than-ideal texture.
• Curdling the milk: Avoid boiling the soup after adding the dairy to prevent curdling.
• Not seasoning enough: Potatoes absorb a lot of seasoning, so taste frequently and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Skipping the roux: This step is key for achieving the right thickness; skipping it may lead to a watery soup.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How you serve and present loaded potato soup can take it from a casual meal to a showstopper. Here are some tips:

• Serve in bread bowls: Hollow out round loaves of sourdough or another crusty bread for a rustic presentation.
• Garnish generously: Loaded potato soup is all about the toppings. Pile on bacon, cheese, sour cream, and green onions for maximum flavor.
• Use large soup bowls: Serve the soup in large, deep bowls to hold all the ingredients and toppings without spilling.

How to Serve Loaded Potato Soup

• Serve immediately: Loaded potato soup is best enjoyed hot and fresh from the pot.
• Pair with sides: Serve with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or a slice of buttery cornbread for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Loaded Potato Soup

• Top with swirls of sour cream: Create a beautiful spiral pattern on the surface of the soup with sour cream before adding other toppings.
• Use edible bowls: Serve the soup in mini bread bowls for an Instagram-worthy presentation.

Loaded Potato Soup Recipe Tips

• Make ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Double the recipe: This soup freezes beautifully. Make a double batch and freeze half for a quick meal later.
• Balance the flavors: Taste the soup as you cook and adjust seasoning as needed. The tanginess of the sour cream and the richness of the cheese should be in harmony with the starchy potatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze loaded potato soup?
Yes, loaded potato soup freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw it in the fridge overnight and heat gently on the stove.

How do I prevent curdling?
To avoid curdling, don’t let the soup boil after adding the milk and sour cream. Keep the heat low and stir frequently.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Cook the bacon, onions, and garlic in a pan first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then mash some of the potatoes, stir in the dairy, and serve.

Conclusion

Loaded potato soup is the perfect dish when you're craving something warm, filling, and comforting. With its velvety texture and layers of savory toppings, it’s a hit for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights at home. This versatile recipe allows for plenty of customization, from lighter versions to hearty, indulgent variations. Now that you’ve got all the steps, tips, and tricks, it’s time to get cooking. Serve it up with your favorite toppings, and watch it become a new family favorite!

Print