Imagine a chilly evening, the kind that makes you want to curl up on the couch with a warm blanket and a bowl of something delicious. Now, picture this: a steaming bowl of creamy loaded potato soup, rich and velvety, filled to the brim with crispy bacon bits, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh chives. sourdough croutons for soup The aroma wafts through the air, wrapping you in a cozy embrace that feels like home. Each spoonful is a hug for your taste buds, offering a hearty blend of flavors that dance together in perfect harmony. Perfect for family gatherings, movie nights, or just those days when you need a little comfort food magic.
This creamy loaded potato soup not only warms your heart but also fills your belly with joy. It’s like your favorite childhood memory served in a bowl—comforting and nostalgic. Whether you’re hosting friends on game day or simply indulging after a long week, this recipe promises to elevate any occasion. Trust me; once you dive into this creamy goodness, you’ll be counting down the days until you can make it again! For more inspiration, check out this Amish country casserole recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy loaded potato soup is easy to whip up on any weeknight, even if you’re not a culinary wizard.
- The delightful combination of flavors ensures every bite is an explosion of warmth and satisfaction.
- With its beautiful presentation topped with crispy bacon and fresh herbs, it’s sure to impress anyone at your table.
- Plus, it’s versatile—add whatever toppings you love or have on hand!
Ingredients for Creamy Loaded Potato Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Russet Potatoes: About 4-5 medium-sized potatoes work best; they provide the perfect texture for creamy soup.
- Onion: One medium onion adds depth and flavor; finely chop it for even cooking.
- Garlic: Use 3-4 cloves of minced garlic for an aromatic touch that complements the potatoes beautifully.
- Chicken Broth: Four cups of low-sodium chicken broth will serve as the flavorful base of your soup.
- Heavy Cream: Adding one cup gives the soup its luxurious creaminess; don’t skimp on this!
- Bacon: About six slices of crispy bacon add crunch and smoky flavor; feel free to use turkey bacon as a lighter option.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: One cup shredded cheese will melt beautifully into the soup for an extra cheesy delight.
- Chives: Chopped fresh chives are perfect for garnish, adding color and freshness to each bowl.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Creamy Loaded Potato Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by washing and peeling your russet potatoes. Dice them into small cubes so they cook evenly and quickly.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, add some olive oil or butter. Toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant—about three minutes should do it!
Step 3: Cook Potatoes
Add your diced potatoes to the pot along with chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to simmer gently until potatoes are tender—this usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
Step 4: Blend for Creaminess
Once cooked, use an immersion blender right in the pot—or carefully transfer batches into a traditional blender—to achieve that dreamy creamy texture we all crave.
Step 5: Add Cream & Cheese
Return the blended mixture back to low heat and stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Ladle generous amounts into bowls; sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top followed by chopped chives for that finishing touch!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every heavenly bite of your creamy loaded potato soup!
You Must Know
- This creamy loaded potato soup is a hug in a bowl.
- Not only does it warm your soul, but it also makes for fantastic leftovers that taste even better the next day.
- Customize it with toppings and enjoy a cozy meal!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until golden. Next, add diced potatoes and broth, letting them simmer until tender. Blend half for creaminess while keeping the other half chunky for texture. Finally, stir in cream, cheese, and seasonings for a delightful finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes or add bacon bits for an extra crunch. Toss in some green onions or fresh herbs to elevate flavors—don’t shy away from experimenting with spices like paprika or cayenne for a kick!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover creamy loaded potato soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to maintain its creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly creamy loaded potato soup, always use starchy potatoes like Russets; they yield the best texture.
- Avoid boiling too vigorously to prevent splashes and messes.
- Season gradually; you can always add more salt but can’t take it out once it’s in!
Sometimes, I make this soup when friends come over—everyone loves it! One time, someone declared it was “like eating a cloud.” Now that’s some high praise I’ll take any day!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Creamy Loaded Potato Soup?
To prepare Creamy Loaded Potato Soup, gather essential ingredients such as russet potatoes, onion, garlic, chicken or vegetable broth, heavy cream, and shredded cheese. Don’t forget seasonings like salt, pepper, and fresh herbs to enhance the flavor. For added texture and taste, consider including crispy bacon bits and chopped green onions as toppings. Opt for high-quality ingredients to achieve a rich and creamy consistency that elevates your soup experience.
How long does Creamy Loaded Potato Soup last in the fridge?
Creamy Loaded Potato Soup can last in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days when stored properly. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing leftovers. When frozen, the soup can be kept for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Can I make Creamy Loaded Potato Soup vegan?
Yes, you can easily make a vegan version of Creamy Loaded Potato Soup! Substitute dairy products with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk for creaminess. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative. Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Add more vegetables like kale or carrots for extra nutrition while still enjoying a deliciously creamy texture.
What can I serve with Creamy Loaded Potato Soup?
Creamy Loaded Potato Soup pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving it with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls for a comforting meal. A fresh garden salad adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the soup. Flavorful antipasto salad If you want something heartier, grilled cheese sandwiches also complement this dish perfectly, making for a satisfying lunch or dinner option.
Conclusion for Creamy Loaded Potato Soup :
In summary, Creamy Loaded Potato Soup is an incredibly satisfying dish that combines simple ingredients into a delightful bowl of comfort. With its rich flavors from potatoes, cheese, and seasonings, this soup is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as a meal on its own or pairing it with complementary sides like bread or salad, this recipe will surely impress your family and friends. crunchy broccoli salad Don’t hesitate to try variations such as vegan options to suit different dietary preferences while still savoring that creamy goodness!
Creamy Loaded Potato Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Creamy Loaded Potato Soup is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for cozy nights. This rich and velvety soup features tender russet potatoes blended with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh chives. Each spoonful offers a delightful burst of flavor, making it an ideal dish for family gatherings or a relaxing night in. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite toppings, this soup warms both heart and belly. Pair it with crusty bread for an unforgettable meal.
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant (about 3 minutes).
- Add diced potatoes and chicken broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender (15-20 minutes).
- Use an immersion blender to blend half of the soup for creaminess while keeping some chunks.
- Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted; season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with crumbled bacon and chopped chives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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