This Loaded Potato Soup is pure comfort in a bowl! Hearty, creamy, and packed with flavor, it’s a perfect meal for a cozy evening. With the crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and tangy sour cream, it’s everything you love about loaded baked potatoes, in soup form. This dish is great for a chilly day, and it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be ready in about 40 minutes!
Ingredients:
- 8 slices bacon, chopped (for that crispy, smoky goodness)
- 4 tablespoons butter (for sautéing and richness)
- 4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed (the hearty base of this soup)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (adds sweetness and depth of flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (for that savory kick)
- â…› teaspoon cayenne pepper (for a subtle heat, optional for spiciness)
- ÂĽ cup flour (to thicken the soup)
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth (for a rich, savory base)
- 2 ½ cups 2% milk (for a creamy texture)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar (for that cheesy richness)
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar (adds a little sharpness and creaminess)
- ½ cup sour cream (for a creamy, tangy finish)
- ÂĽ cup chopped chives (for a fresh, herby garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste (adjust to your preference)
Instructions:
1. Brown the Bacon:
- In a Dutch oven or heavy stockpot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. This will take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once crispy, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pot for flavor.
2. Sauté the Potatoes and Onions:
- Add butter to the bacon fat in the pot to melt (about 2 tablespoons).
- Once melted, add the potatoes and onions to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add the garlic and cayenne pepper, and cook for another 1 minute, stirring constantly, to release the flavors.
3. Make the Roux:
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked potatoes, onions, and garlic from the pot. Set them aside on a plate or bowl, and reserve any fat left in the pot.
- Add enough butter to the pot to make 4 tablespoons of fat.
- Sprinkle in ÂĽ cup of flour, whisking constantly for 2-3 minutes to form a roux. This will help thicken the soup.
4. Add Broth and Milk:
- Gradually whisk in the low-sodium chicken broth and milk in intervals. Alternate between adding the two, whisking until smooth and thickened after each addition.
5. Simmer:
- Add the potatoes, onions, and garlic back into the pot. Stir everything together and let it simmer over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the soup has thickened to your liking.
6. Finish the Soup:
- Once the potatoes are tender, whisk in the shredded sharp cheddar and white cheddar cheese until they are fully melted and incorporated, creating a creamy texture.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the crispy bacon, sour cream, and chopped chives.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and top with additional chives, cheese, or even extra bacon if you like. You can also drizzle a little extra sour cream on top for added creaminess.
Why You’ll Love This Loaded Potato Soup:
- Creamy and Comforting: The combination of melted cheese, sour cream, and bacon makes this soup incredibly rich and satisfying. It’s the ultimate comfort food!
- Hearty & Filling: With potatoes as the base, this soup is incredibly filling and great for a family meal or a cozy night in.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and doesn’t require any special equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. If you have a pot, you’re set!
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasonings to your taste, or add other toppings like crispy onions, extra cheese, or even some hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Soup:
- Texture Tip: If you like a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup once the potatoes are tender. This will give it a creamy texture without losing the chunky potato bits.
- Make it a Meal: You can serve this soup with a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping or even top it with some grilled chicken or croutons for extra flavor.
- Leftovers: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days and can easily be reheated on the stove. You may need to add a splash more milk or broth to get the right consistency when reheating.
Perfect for Any Occasion:
Whether you’re serving this for a chilly night in, a weeknight dinner, or a comforting family meal, this Loaded Potato Soup is sure to be a hit. It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor from the bacon, cheese, and sour cream. Top it with your favorite garnishes, and you’ve got a hearty, delicious meal that’ll leave everyone satisfied! 🍲🧀