Loaded Potato Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Create a comforting bowl of Loaded Potato Soup that's perfect for chilly nights! This rich and creamy soup is filled with tender potatoes, savory bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and topped with fresh green onions. It's an easy recipe that combines hearty flavors and is sure to become a family favorite, ideal for meal prep or cozy get-togethers.
This Loaded Potato Soup is a warm embrace in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings.
Why You'll Love This Soup
- Hearty and satisfying
- Rich in flavor
- Easy to prepare
- Perfect for leftovers
Perfect for Cold Weather
Loaded Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, especially during the chilly months. Its rich and creamy texture warms you from the inside out, making it an ideal meal for cold nights. Each spoonful is like a cozy embrace, filled with the goodness of hearty potatoes and savory bacon. This soup isn't just a dish; it's an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your table, inviting friends and family to gather around and enjoy.
What sets this soup apart is its versatility. You can easily modify ingredients to cater to picky eaters or dietary restrictions. Whether you choose to use turkey bacon or omit cheese for a dairy-free version, the savory essence of loaded potato soup remains intact. This adaptability makes it a go-to recipe, ensuring everyone at your gathering finds something to love.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the best aspects of Loaded Potato Soup is its meal prep friendliness. It keeps well in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week. Simply portion it into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to five days. When you're ready to enjoy, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave for a quick and satisfying meal that feels freshly made.
This soup can also be frozen, making it perfect for batch cooking. On a busy day, pull out a container of your pre-made soup, reheat it, and instantly have a delightful dinner ready in minutes. The flavors deepen as it sits, ensuring that you'll be greeted with a rich, flavorful meal whenever you choose to enjoy it.
Tips for the Perfect Soup
To achieve the perfect Loaded Potato Soup, it's essential to select the right type of potatoes. Russet potatoes work best due to their starchy texture, creating a creamy base without needing excessive thickening agents. Ensure your potatoes are uniformly diced for even cooking, which allows for a consistent texture throughout the soup.
Don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed! A pinch of cayenne or paprika can add a delightful kick, while fresh herbs like thyme can enhance the overall flavor profile. Experiment with toppings as well; crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream can elevate your soup to new heights, making it a memorable dish every time.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup diced bacon
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before starting for an easier cooking experience.
Instructions
Cook the Bacon
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
Sauté the Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and sauté briefly in the bacon fat.
Add the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender.
Blend and Add Cream
Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and cheese, heating until melted.
Serve and Enjoy
Top with crispy bacon and green onions before serving.
Enjoy your comforting bowl of Loaded Potato Soup!
Nutritional Benefits
Loaded Potato Soup is not only delicious but also offers nutritional benefits. Potatoes are a great source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber, which can help with digestion and provide energy. The addition of green onions not only adds a pop of flavor but also contributes antioxidants and essential nutrients to the dish, making it a wholesome option for any meal.
While this soup is rich and creamy, moderation is key. You can lighten it by using reduced-fat cheese or swapping heavy cream for a lighter alternative, like milk or a dairy-free substitute. These simple swaps can help you enjoy your favorite soup while keeping nutritional goals in check.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement your Loaded Potato Soup, consider serving it with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup. Alternatively, a warm, buttery roll or a slice of sourdough bread provides the perfect vessel for soaking up every last drop.
For drinks, a light white wine can enhance the flavors without overpowering them. A crisp Chardonnay or a refreshing Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully, making your meal feel complete. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a twist of lemon can cleanse the palate, providing a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the bacon with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove.
Loaded Potato Soup
Create a comforting bowl of Loaded Potato Soup that's perfect for chilly nights! This rich and creamy soup is filled with tender potatoes, savory bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and topped with fresh green onions. It's an easy recipe that combines hearty flavors and is sure to become a family favorite, ideal for meal prep or cozy get-togethers.
Created by: Mia Jefferson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup diced bacon
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and sauté briefly in the bacon fat.
Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender.
Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and cheese, heating until melted.
Top with crispy bacon and green onions before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 28g