Loaded Potato Soup
Indulge in the rich and hearty flavors of loaded potato soup, a classic dish that warms the soul. This creamy soup is packed with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and topped with a sprinkle of cheese and green onions. It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings everyone to the table. Perfect for chilly evenings, this recipe is simple yet satisfying, ensuring you’ll want to make it again and again. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the cooking process!
Ingredients
– 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for sautéing
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 380 calories, 24g fat, 30g carbohydrates, 10g protein, and 3g fiber. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add diced potatoes to the pot and stir well.
5. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bringing it to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and let it simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
7. Use a potato masher to break down some of the potatoes for a creamier texture.
8. Stir in heavy cream and bring back to a gentle simmer.
9. Add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot, garnished with bacon and green onions.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version. Additionally, turkey bacon can replace regular bacon for a healthier option. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and skip the bacon.
Serving and Pairings
This loaded potato soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. It also makes a delightful starter to accompany grilled meats or sandwiches.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess. The soup can be frozen for up to 2 months; just remember to leave out the toppings before freezing.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the potatoes; they should be tender but not mushy.
– Avoid using high heat to prevent burning the garlic or onions.
– Make sure to season at every step for better flavor.
– Don’t forget to mash some potatoes for a creamy texture.
– Be careful not to let the soup boil after adding cream.
Helpful Tips
– Use a mix of potato varieties for added flavor.
– For extra richness, add a dollop of sour cream before serving.
– Keep some cheese reserved for topping the soup.
– Adjust the thickness by adding more broth as needed.
FAQs
Can I make loaded potato soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time. It reheats well, but add cream just before serving for the best texture.
What kind of potatoes work best?
Russet potatoes are ideal for this soup due to their starchiness, but Yukon Gold potatoes can also work well for a creamier texture.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth and skip the bacon or use a vegetarian bacon alternative.
How can I thicken my soup?
If you’d like a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes or add a slurry of cornstarch and water to the pot while simmering.
What toppings can I use?
Feel free to get creative! Top with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, green onions, sour cream, or even jalapeños for a kick.
Conclusion
Loaded potato soup is a delightful, hearty dish that embodies comfort food at its finest. With its creamy texture and robust flavors, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Easy to prepare and customize, it’s perfect for any meal or gathering. Enjoy this classic recipe, and share it with those you love!
Loaded Potato Soup
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add diced potatoes to the pot and stir well.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bringing it to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Use a potato masher to break down some of the potatoes for a creamier texture.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring back to a gentle simmer.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot, garnished with bacon and green onions.