Loaded Potato Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor, this Loaded Potato Soup is the ultimate cold-weather comfort food. Infused with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions, this hearty dish is perfect as a main course or a side. Easy to prepare and delicious, it's sure to become a family favorite!
This Loaded Potato Soup is a delightful dish that showcases the wonderful combination of flavors that come together in a warm bowl of soup. Perfect for chilly nights, it is sure to warm you from the inside out!
A Classic Comfort Food
There's something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Loaded Potato Soup. As the temperatures drop, this dish stands out as a nurturing option that brings not only flavor but also warmth. The creamy texture combined with the earthy flavor of potatoes creates an inviting base that warms the heart and soul. This soup is a quintessential cold-weather dish that can soothe even the coldest days.
Moreover, Loaded Potato Soup is highly versatile. While the classic ingredients create an unforgettable taste, you can easily modify it to suit your preference. Consider adding spicy jalapeños, sour cream, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an extra kick. This adaptability allows you to make the dish your own, catering it to family members and friends with varying tastes.
Perfect for Weeknight Dinners
In our fast-paced world, having quick and easy recipes on hand is essential. This Loaded Potato Soup is not only easy to whip up, but it also requires minimal prep time. With just a few ingredients and about 30 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a bubbling pot of deliciousness ready to serve. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight meal or a social gathering dish, this soup fits perfectly into any occasion.
Additionally, this recipe is a fantastic way to use up any leftover ingredients. If you have extra veggies like carrots or celery, feel free to toss them in the mix for added nutrition and color. The flexibility of this soup means you can transform it based on what you have available, making it a practical choice for busy families.
Serving Suggestions
While Loaded Potato Soup is hearty enough to serve as a stand-alone meal, pairing it with the right sides can elevate the experience. For a delightful contrast, serve the soup with a crisp salad loaded with fresh greens and a zesty vinaigrette. The brightness of the salad complements the richness of the soup, offering a balanced dining experience that everyone will love.
Alternatively, consider serving this soup alongside crusty bread or warm rolls. There’s nothing quite like dipping fresh bread into a steaming bowl of soup. This combination not only satiates hunger but also adds a comforting rustic element to the meal, making it perfect for family gatherings or weekends spent at home.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Loaded Potato Soup
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup crispy bacon, chopped
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth preparation process.
Steps to Prepare
Cook the Bacon
In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
Prepare the Potatoes
Add diced potatoes to the pot and stir in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
Add Milk and Cheese
Stir in the milk, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and cooked bacon. Mix until cheese is melted and soup is creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra cheese and green onions. Enjoy your hearty Loaded Potato Soup!
This Loaded Potato Soup can be served either hot as a main dish or as a side dish. Enjoy!
Storing and Reheating
If you find yourself with leftovers, Loaded Potato Soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just ensure that it has cooled down before transferring it to an airtight container. The flavors continue to meld and develop, making the soup even tastier upon reheating.
When it comes time to reheat, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You might want to add a splash of milk if it has thickened more than desired. This simple method ensures that every bowl remains as comforting as the first.
Nutritional Benefits
Loaded Potato Soup is not only delicious but also offers a range of nutritional benefits. Potatoes are a great source of vitamins and minerals, particularly Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, and potassium. These nutrients help to support a healthy immune system and promote overall well-being.
Additionally, the inclusion of bacon, cheese, and green onions adds protein and essential fats, making this soup a well-rounded option. By choosing quality ingredients, you can enhance the nutritional value while still enjoying a hearty and satisfying meal any day of the week.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze Loaded Potato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a little milk to restore creaminess.
→ What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt makes a great substitute for sour cream in recipes.
Loaded Potato Soup
Creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor, this Loaded Potato Soup is the ultimate cold-weather comfort food. Infused with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions, this hearty dish is perfect as a main course or a side. Easy to prepare and delicious, it's sure to become a family favorite!
Created by: Natalie Briggs
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Loaded Potato Soup
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup crispy bacon, chopped
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
Add diced potatoes to the pot and stir in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
Stir in the milk, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and cooked bacon. Mix until cheese is melted and soup is creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra cheese and green onions. Enjoy your hearty Loaded Potato Soup!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 10g