Oh boy, let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite comfort foods—Easy Old Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup! Now, I don’t want to brag (okay, maybe just a little), but this recipe is like a warm hug in a bowl. There’s nothing quite like cozying up with a deliciously creamy, cheesy potato soup on a chilly evening. I remember the first time I made this recipe on a winter weekend; my friends came over to watch movies, and they couldn’t get enough of it! By the end of the night, the pot was empty, their hearts were warm, and we all agreed—this soup was the star of the show.
What I love about this soup is how versatile and easy it is to whip up. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a hearty dinner, it fits the bill perfectly! Plus, who doesn’t love bacon and cheese? Each spoonful is a cozy reminder of home, and the aroma wafting through your kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the recipe together!
What’s in Easy Old Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup?
Russet Potatoes: The star of the show! Russets are starchy and creamy, making them perfect for soup. I love how they break down and give a lovely body to the dish, while still holding a few chunks for texture.
Onion: A medium onion adds a wonderful depth of flavor. I usually opt for yellow onions as they bring that perfect balance of sweetness and sharpness.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: This is what brings the whole soup together! Use homemade for a special touch, but feel free to rely on your favorite store-bought brand when time is short.
Heavy Cream: Oh yes, the cream adds that decadent richness we’re all craving. Use it sparingly if you like, but honestly, this soup deserves every drop!
Cheddar Cheese: Because every loaded potato soup needs cheese! I prefer sharp cheddar for a little extra flavor zing.
Bacon: Can I get an amen for bacon?! Cook it crispy and crumble it right before adding—it gives an incredible smoky flavor to the soup.
Butter: A little butter is used to sauté that aromatic onion and garlic. It just makes everything better!
Garlic: Minced garlic adds an earthy kick that complements the potatoes beautifully.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning! Make sure to taste and adjust as you go.
Fresh Green Onions: These little guys are the finishing touch, adding freshness and brightness to your bowl.
Is Easy Old Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup Good for You?
Now let’s talk about the health aspect a bit. While this soup is undeniably indulgent, it does have some perks!
Potatoes are a great source of vitamins and minerals, especially potassium. But remember, moderation is key!
And while bacon brings the flavor party, it’s also high in fat, so I usually stick with a few crispy strips to keep guilt at bay.
On the flip side, heavy cream is our creamy friend here; it’s delicious, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, maybe experiment with half-and-half or even yogurt.
Overall, this soup is a treat meant to be enjoyed in moderation—perfect for those cozy nights when you need a little extra comfort and warmth.
Ingredients
– 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 strips of bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh green onions, sliced (for garnish)
This recipe serves about 4 generous bowls.
How to Make Easy Old Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup?
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Oh, isn’t the smell already amazing?
2. Add the diced potatoes to the pot and pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, around 15-20 minutes.
3. Once the potatoes are cooked, grab a potato masher or an immersion blender. I prefer to mash them gently to leave some satisfying chunks so every spoonful has the perfect texture.
4. Stir in the heavy cream, crumbled bacon, and the glorious shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
6. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with those fresh green onions for that pop of color and flavor. Voilà, you’ve got yourself a bowl of happiness!
Serving Suggestions & Extra Tips
For an extra kick, why not add some hot sauce or red pepper flakes? It’ll give the soup an unexpected twist!
If you want to up your game, serve it with crusty bread for dipping or a fresh salad to give your meal that extra color.
And don’t worry too much about perfection—this soup is forgiving! If you want to make it vegetarian, just switch to vegetable broth and skip the bacon. Or, swap in your favorite toppings like avocado or jalapeños for a personal touch.
Honestly, I hope you give this Easy Old Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup a try. You won’t regret it! I can already picture you cozying up with a bowl, feeling those warm vibes. Don’t forget to share how it turned out—I’d love to hear all about it! Enjoy!
