Loaded Potato Soup Recipe

Introduction

Loaded Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food that warms the heart and soul. This creamy, delicious, and easy-to-make soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. With its rich and velvety texture, Loaded Potato Soup is a treat that will leave you craving for more.

The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients. The combination of buttery goodness, savory chicken broth, and creamy milk creates a flavor profile that’s hard to resist. So, if you’re looking for a recipe that’s both satisfying and delicious, you’re in the right place.

In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Loaded Potato Soup and explore its wonders. From the ingredients to the instructions, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make this mouth-watering soup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Loaded Potato Soup is a game-changer when it comes to comfort food. The creamy texture, loaded with cheesy goodness and crispy bacon bits, is a match made in heaven. This recipe is not only delicious but also hearty and satisfying, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The best part about this recipe is that it’s highly customizable. You can add your favorite toppings, such as diced ham, chopped scallions, or sour cream, to create a flavor profile that’s uniquely yours. So, whether you’re a fan of classic Loaded Potato Soup or like to experiment with new flavors, this recipe is sure to impress.

Loaded Potato Soup is also a great option for those looking for a comforting and nutritious meal. The combination of potatoes, chicken broth, and milk provides a good source of carbohydrates, protein, and calcium, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
2 cups diced potatoes
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
4 slices bacon, diced
1/4 cup chopped scallions
1/4 cup diced ham

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

If you’re looking to make this recipe a bit healthier, you can substitute the butter with a lower-fat alternative, such as olive oil or avocado oil. You can also use low-fat milk or a non-dairy milk alternative, such as almond milk or soy milk, to reduce the calorie count.

For a vegetarian or vegan version of this recipe, you can omit the bacon and ham and add other protein sources, such as beans or tofu. You can also use vegan cheese alternatives, such as soy cheese or nutritional yeast, to create a dairy-free version of the recipe.

In addition to these substitutions, you can also experiment with different types of potatoes, such as sweet potatoes or Yukon gold potatoes, to create a unique flavor profile. The key is to find the combination of ingredients that works best for you and your taste preferences.

Equipment Needed

To make this recipe, you’ll need the following equipment:

Large pot
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Peel and dice the potatoes into 1-inch cubes.
Boil the diced potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Drain the potatoes and set them aside.
Sauté the onions and garlic in butter until they are softened and translucent.
Add the chicken broth, milk, and diced potatoes to the pot.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot to create a creamy texture.
Stir in the shredded cheese until it is melted and the soup is smooth.
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the Loaded Potato Soup hot, garnished with chopped herbs or chives if desired.

Visual Guide & Tips

As you cook the soup, you’ll notice that the potatoes will start to break down and create a creamy texture. This is perfectly normal and will add to the overall flavor and texture of the soup.

When adding the cheese, make sure to stir it in slowly and evenly to prevent lumps from forming. You can also add other toppings, such as diced ham or chopped scallions, to create a flavor profile that’s uniquely yours.

The key to making a great Loaded Potato Soup is to cook the potatoes until they’re tender and then mash them to create a creamy texture. You can also add other ingredients, such as bacon bits or sour cream, to create a flavor profile that’s rich and satisfying.

Expert Tips & Troubleshooting

One of the most common mistakes people make when making Loaded Potato Soup is overcooking the potatoes. This can make the soup too thick and starchy, which can be unappetizing.

To avoid this, make sure to cook the potatoes until they’re tender but still firm. You can also add a little bit of milk or cream to thin out the soup and create a creamy texture.

Another common mistake is not stirring the cheese in slowly and evenly. This can create lumps in the soup, which can be unappetizing. To avoid this, make sure to stir the cheese in slowly and evenly, and use a low heat to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly.

In addition to these tips, you can also experiment with different ingredients and toppings to create a unique flavor profile. Some ideas include:

Adding diced ham or cooked bacon for a smoky flavor
Using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a unique flavor profile
Adding chopped scallions or fresh herbs for a fresh and flavorful taste

Storage & Freezing

Loaded Potato Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To store the soup, make sure to cool it to room temperature and then transfer it to an airtight container.

When freezing the soup, make sure to label the container with the date and contents, and to store it in a freezer-safe bag or container. You can also add a little bit of milk or cream to the soup before freezing to help preserve the texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions and answers about Loaded Potato Soup:

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer.
Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Make sure to cool the soup to room temperature and then transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I use different types of potatoes?

A: Yes, you can use different types of potatoes, such as sweet potatoes or Yukon gold potatoes, to create a unique flavor profile.
Q: How do I make the soup creamier?

A: You can add a little bit of milk or cream to the soup to create a creamy texture. You can also mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot to create a creamy texture.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the soup?

A: Yes, you can add other ingredients, such as diced ham or cooked bacon, to create a unique flavor profile.
Q: How do I reheat the soup?

A: You can reheat the soup in the microwave or on the stovetop. Make sure to stir the soup occasionally to prevent it from burning or sticking to the pot.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Here is the approximate nutritional information for Loaded Potato Soup:

Calories: 188 kcal
Protein: 6.3g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 10.8g
Sugar: 2g

Conclusion

Loaded Potato Soup is a delicious and comforting recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, loaded with cheesy goodness and crispy bacon bits, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

So, go ahead and give this recipe a try! Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @EvasRecipes or pin it on Pinterest if you make it. Happy cooking, and I’ll see you in the next recipe!

Did you make this? Pin it on Pinterest or tag me on Instagram @EvasRecipes!

For more delicious and comforting soup recipes, check out my Creamy Roasted Tomato Basil Soup or my Crock Pot Chicken Gnocchi Soup. You can also try my Slow Cooker Beef Stew for a hearty and flavorful meal.