Why Make This Recipe

Loaded Potato Soup is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days. It brings together the hearty flavors of potatoes, cheese, and bacon in a rich and creamy soup. This recipe is simple and can be made in about 30 minutes. Plus, it’s great for feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in.

How to Make Loaded Potato Soup

Ingredients

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a large pot, combine diced potatoes, onion, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes for a creamy texture.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, Cheddar cheese, bacon, and sour cream.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Cook on low until cheese is melted and soup is heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.

How to Serve Loaded Potato Soup

Serve Loaded Potato Soup hot in bowls. You can add extra toppings like more cheese, bacon bits, or a sprinkle of black pepper. Pair it with warm bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Loaded Potato Soup

If you have leftovers, let the soup cool completely. Then, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space in the container, as the soup may expand when frozen.

Tips to Make Loaded Potato Soup

• Choose starchy potatoes like russets for a creamier texture.
• For a thicker soup, mash more potatoes.
• You can adjust the cream and cheese to your taste for a richer or lighter soup.
• Add more veggies like carrots or celery for extra flavor and nutrition.

Variations

You can make variations of Loaded Potato Soup by adding different ingredients. Try adding broccoli for a veggie option, or use a different type of cheese like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicy kick.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth and skip the bacon. Add more veggies or beans for added flavor and protein.

2. Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
Yes! If you have leftover mashed potatoes, you can stir them into the soup instead of using diced potatoes. This will save time and add flavor.

3. How can I make it spicier?
To add some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also use Pepper Jack cheese instead of Cheddar for spicy flavor.