Creamy Loaded Potato Soup

© Original recipe by The Daily Dishboard ©

🥣 Creamy Loaded Potato Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food 🌟

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a warm, hearty, and incredibly flavorful dish, potato soup hits the spot. This creamy loaded potato soup is a cozy favorite that combines velvety potatoes, crisp bacon, melted cheese, and fresh herbs for a bowl that’s packed with flavor. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or need a quick comfort food fix, this dish offers pure satisfaction in every spoonful. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to whip up in your own kitchen!

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in about 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights
• One-pot meal—less clean-up and more time enjoying your soup
• Customizable: Add extra toppings or ingredients to suit your taste
• Rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor—comfort food at its best

3. Ingredient Notes

To achieve the irresistible creaminess and hearty texture of this loaded potato soup, selecting high-quality ingredients really makes a difference. Russet potatoes are the ideal choice because their starchy nature results in a smooth, velvety soup. For a richer flavor, use a good quality heavy cream or half-and-half. Cheddar cheese adds that classic sharpness, but you can also experiment with Monterey Jack or Swiss for different flavor profiles. Fresh garlic and onions bring aromatic depth, while crispy bacon crumbles provide a savory crunch. Be sure to pick fresh herbs like chives or parsley to finish your bowl and elevate every bite.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

To make this delicious potato soup, having the right tools makes the process smoother. For instance, a reliable T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set ensures even heating and easy cleanup when sautéing your aromatics. A quality vegetable peeler and sharp knives are essential for prep work, and a good Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer can be used to crisp bacon effortlessly. For blending, a high-powered immersion blender helps achieve a silky smooth texture directly in the pot. Investing in these tools can make cooking more enjoyable and efficient.

5. How to Make Creamy Loaded Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by peeling and dicing about 4 large Russet potatoes. Chop one medium onion and mince 2 cloves of garlic. Cook 6 slices of bacon until crispy in your favorite sauté pan or skillet until golden and fragrant. Once cooked, crumble or chop the bacon into small pieces and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Cook Potatoes

In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook until aromatic—about 30 seconds to a minute. Add the diced potatoes along with enough chicken broth to cover them. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 minutes.

Step 3: Blend for Creaminess

Using an immersion blender, puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth and velvety. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half and leave the rest as is. Adjust the consistency with additional broth if needed. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half for richness. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.

Step 4: Add Toppings & Serve

Ladle the hot, creamy soup into bowls. Top with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, chopped chives, and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors that make loaded potato soup a go-to meal.

6. Expert Tips for Success

• For an ultra-smooth soup, strain the blended potatoes through a sieve before returning to the pot.
• Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for a better melt and richer flavor.
• Cook your bacon slowly over medium heat to achieve the perfect crispy texture without burning.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for smoky flavor.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If dairy isn’t your thing, substitute coconut milk or cashew cream for a vegan, dairy-free version. For added protein, toss in cooked shredded chicken or ham. Want to boost vegetables? Stir in chopped celery, carrots, or roasted corn for extra texture and nutrients. Gluten-free? Ensure your broth and thickeners are gluten-free for an all-inclusive meal.

8. Storage & Reheating

This loaded potato soup keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk to restore its creamy consistency. It also freezes nicely—just leave some space in your container for expansion and thaw overnight before reheating.

9. FAQ

Can I make potato soup vegan?

Absolutely! Use plant-based milk like coconut or almond milk, and omit bacon. Add sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika to mimic smoky flavors.

How can I make this soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion of the potatoes more thoroughly or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in cold water during simmering.

What are good toppings for loaded potato soup?

Classic toppings include crispy bacon, shredded Cheddar cheese, chopped chives, sour cream, and sliced green onions. Feel free to add diced jalapeños or crumbled blue cheese for extra flavor.

10. Conclusion

This creamy loaded potato soup is a comforting, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Rich, cheesy, and topped with crispy bacon, it’s a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a bowl of homemade soup that feels like a cozy hug in a mug. Dive into this culinary classic and elevate your comfort food game today!

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