- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Optional: Extra black pepper, jalapeños, or chopped chives
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Potatoes
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the diced potatoes, onion, celery, garlic, and chicken broth.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
2. Make the Creamy Base
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, ensuring no lumps remain. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Stir the creamy mixture into the pot with the potatoes and broth, mixing well to combine.
3. Blend (Optional)
- For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some potato chunks for texture.
- Alternatively, transfer 1–2 cups of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
4. Season and Simmer
- Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Add the Toppings
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream.
- Optional: Add extra black pepper, jalapeños, or chopped chives for added flair.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
- Enjoy every bite of this creamy, cheesy, and indulgent Loaded Potato Soup!
- Perfect as a standalone meal or paired with a side salad for a complete dinner.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh potatoes and high-quality cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Experiment with Mix-Ins: Try adding diced ham, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for variety.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the soup ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and reheat gently before serving.
- Store Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
Why This Recipe Works
This Loaded Potato Soup combines the creamy richness of potatoes and broth with indulgent toppings like bacon, cheese, and sour cream into a dish that’s both satisfying and comforting. The straightforward preparation ensures consistent results without requiring advanced cooking skills, while the customizable options allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste. Whether served as a standalone meal or customized with your favorite mix-ins, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity.
Conclusion: A Soup Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something creamy and indulgent, looking for a way to simplify dinner prep, or simply want to indulge in a homemade treat, this Loaded Potato Soup is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and practical preparation make it a standout recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Plus, its adaptability means you can tailor it to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this soup might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨
