This creamy loaded potato soup is everything you love about comfort food! It’s packed with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and rich cheese that will warm you right up.
Rumor has it that the best part is the bacon—who can resist that crispy goodness? I like to top mine with extra cheese and green onions for the perfect finish. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: Russets are great due to their starchy texture that makes the soup creamy. For a different twist, try Yukon Golds for a buttery flavor. Red potatoes are also okay, but they will maintain a firmer texture.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a plant-based option or want to make it healthier, turkey bacon or a vegetarian bacon can work well. You could even skip the bacon and use smoked paprika to add depth!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives bold flavor to the soup. If you want a milder taste, go for medium cheddar or mozzarella. Vegan cheese is also an option if you’re avoiding dairy!
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and a bit of tang. If you need a dairy-free alternative, try using unsweetened coconut yogurt or cashew cream.
Why is Sautéing Onion and Garlic Important?
Sautéing the onion and garlic is crucial as it builds the flavor base of your soup. This step makes them soft and fragrant, which enhances the overall taste of the dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium heat to avoid burning, stirring occasionally.
- Cook until the onion is translucent (around 3-4 minutes). This means they are sweet and flavorful, ready to flavor the potatoes.
- Adding garlic later prevents it from burning, which can create bitterness.
Trust me, this step is worth the extra love you give to your soup!
Loaded Potato Soup With Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (whole milk preferred)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
For Toppings:
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
- Optional: cooked and crumbled bacon for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious loaded potato soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook, making the total time around 40 minutes. Perfect for a cozy night in or for impressing guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by cooking the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once done, remove the bacon from the pot and let it drain on paper towels. Don’t throw away the bacon fat! Leave about 2 tablespoons in the pot for flavor.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
With the pot still on medium heat, add the butter to the leftover bacon fat. Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This will make your soup taste amazing!
3. Add the Potatoes and Broth:
Add the diced potatoes to the pot, stirring to coat them with the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Mash the Potatoes:
Using a potato masher or an immersion blender, mash the potatoes right in the pot until you reach your desired consistency. Feel free to leave it a bit chunky for texture, or blend it until smooth.
5. Mix in Creamy Ingredients:
Add the milk, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese to the pot. Stir well until the cheese is melted and everything is combined. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
6. Heat and Serve:
Gently heat the soup until it’s warmed through, being careful not to let it boil again as this can curdle the dairy. Once heated, ladle the soup into bowls.
7. Top and Enjoy:
Finally, top each bowl with crumbled bacon, extra cheese, and fresh sliced green onions. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting loaded potato soup!
This recipe yields about 6 servings of creamy, flavorful loaded potato soup topped with crispy bacon and fresh green onions. Perfect for sharing with family or friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are great for their creaminess, Yukon Golds provide a buttery flavor. If you prefer a firmer texture, red potatoes can also work, though they may not blend as smoothly.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance! Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Use Instead of Bacon?
If you’re looking to make a vegetarian version, you can skip the bacon entirely or use turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon alternative. Smoked paprika can also add a nice smoky flavor in place of the bacon!
