Description
This Loaded Potato Soup is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish made with tender russet potatoes, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and a velvety broth. Perfect for cozy dinners, this hearty soup delivers classic baked potato flavors in a warm, satisfying bowl.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
- Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Add the cubed potatoes, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir constantly for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks. Alternatively, blend half the soup and return it to the pot.
- Stir in the milk, heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Simmer for a few more minutes.
- Serve hot, topped with crispy bacon and chopped chives.
Notes
- Use russet potatoes for the creamiest texture.
- Do not over-blend to maintain a chunky, hearty consistency.
- Add extra broth or milk if the soup becomes too thick.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg