Loaded Potato Soup Recipe
Introduction
Loaded Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, rich and creamy with tender potatoes, savory bacon, cheese,
and a hint of garlic. This hearty soup feels like a hug in a bowl—perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re
craving something indulgent and filling. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and tastes even better with your
favorite toppings.
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for creamier texture)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Optional toppings: extra cheese, sour cream, crumbled bacon, green onions, or chives.
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving about 2 tbsp of bacon fat in the pot.
- Add onion and cook until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender (about 15 minutes).
- In a small pan, melt butter, whisk in flour, and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth. Add this mixture to the soup.
- For creamier soup, mash some of the potatoes in the pot or use an immersion blender to partially puree.
- Stir in cheddar cheese, sour cream, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until creamy.
- Ladle into bowls and top with crispy bacon, more cheese, sour cream, and green onions.
Description
This Loaded Potato Soup is thick, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. The combination of tender potatoes, smoky bacon,
and creamy broth creates a warm, savory dish that’s both filling and comforting. The toppings add a fun customizable
touch—each bowl can be dressed up with as much cheese, bacon, and green onion as you like.
Tips
- Use russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for the best creamy texture.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, mash more potatoes or let it simmer uncovered to reduce.
- For extra richness, substitute heavy cream for some of the milk.
- Save time by cooking bacon in the oven while preparing the soup.
- Make it vegetarian by skipping bacon and using vegetable broth, then adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke for depth.
Correction
Some recipes skip the roux (flour + butter), but including it ensures a thicker, creamier base.
Also, seasoning should be adjusted only after adding cheese and bacon, since they add saltiness.
Enjoy
Serve this soup hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Each spoonful delivers warmth, creaminess,
and a burst of flavor—perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
