This Loaded Potato Soup is warm and creamy, packed with tender potatoes and crispy bacon. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days!
Who can resist bacon in their soup? I love topping mine with extra cheese and green onions. It feels fancy, but it’s so easy to make—great for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Bacon adds crispiness and a smokey flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon or even cooked, crumbled sausage can work well as substitutes. I love using thick-cut bacon for extra chewiness.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are perfect for this soup because they are starchy and creamy. If you prefer a waxier texture, try Yukon Gold potatoes. They hold their shape a bit better but still provide a nice creaminess.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese gives that delicious kick. For a twist, try pepper jack for some heat or Gouda for a smoke flavor. If you want to go dairy-free, use a plant-based cheese alternative.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and tang. Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a healthier option. Just be cautious with the heat to prevent it from curdling.
How Do I Make Sure My Potatoes are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting your potatoes to the right texture is key in a potato soup. You want them tender but not mushy. Here’s how:
- Dice your potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Add them to the pot with the broth when it’s already boiling. This helps them cook faster.
- Check for doneness by piercing with a fork; they should feel soft but still hold their shape.
Partially mashing them after cooking adds creaminess without losing all the chunks. I find this gives the soup great texture!
Loaded Potato Soup With Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Optional: chives for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Loaded Potato Soup takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus around 30 minutes on the stove. So, you’ll be enjoying your warm, hearty soup in about 40 minutes or less!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by cooking the chopped bacon in a large pot over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. This should take around 5-7 minutes. Once it’s done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on paper towels to drain. Don’t throw away that delicious bacon fat—leave about 2 tablespoons in the pot for extra flavor!
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Now, add the finely chopped onion to the pot with the bacon fat. Sauté over medium heat until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. The smell will be heavenly!
3. Add Potatoes and Broth:
Take your diced potatoes and toss them into the pot, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Allow the potatoes to cook until they’re very tender, which should be around 15-20 minutes.
4. Mash for Creaminess:
Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to partially mash the potatoes. You want to create a creamy soup while still leaving some chunks for texture. This step is key to getting that perfect consistency!
5. Add Milk and Cheese:
Next, pour in the milk, add the shredded cheddar cheese, and stir in the sour cream. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and everything is combined into a smooth mix. Season to taste with salt and black pepper. If you want it a bit cheesier, don’t hold back on adding more cheese!
6. Serve It Up:
Dish the soup into bowls, and don’t forget to top it with the crispy bacon pieces, some extra shredded cheese, and the sliced green onions or chives for that fresh finish.
7. Enjoy!
Now, dig into your lovely, rich, and creamy loaded potato soup with bacon. It’s perfect with a side of warm bread or some crunchy crackers. Enjoy the blend of flavors and the cozy warmth!
This recipe yields a hearty and comforting soup, perfectly balanced with cheesy richness and smoky bacon goodness. You won’t be able to get enough of this comforting dish!
Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes for This Soup?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes can be a great base for this soup. Just add them to the pot while stirring in the broth, and whisk until you reach your desired consistency. You may need to adjust the amount of broth or milk to achieve the right thickness.
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover loaded potato soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to thin it out if necessary, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a little extra flavor, you can sauté some mushrooms or add a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky taste without the meat.
What Are Some Good Toppings for This Soup?
Great question! Besides the crispy bacon and extra cheese, you can try topping your soup with fresh herbs like chives or parsley, sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess, or even some jalapeños if you like a bit of heat. Croutons or crispy onion strings add a nice crunch too!