Ah, the classic Old Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup—my absolute favorite for those chilly evenings when you want something creamy, hearty, and oh-so-comforting! Let me tell you, there’s just something about the combination of tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese that gives me all the cozy vibes. This recipe has a special place in my heart, reminding me of the countless time my mom would whip it up on a snowy day. She would serve it alongside warm, crusty bread and we’d huddle around the kitchen table, surrounded by love, laughter, and the delicious aroma of this soup cooking.
Now, don’t get me wrong, I’ve made my fair share of variations on potato soup over the years, but nothing beats this classic version. It’s like a big hug in a bowl, bridging the gap between nostalgia and deliciousness. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the goodness that is Loaded Potato Soup!
What’s in Classic Old Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup?
Let’s break down each ingredient of this comforting dish—you’ll see how they each play a vital role in creating that cozy, loaded goodness!
Russet Potatoes: These starchy spuds are the foundation of this soup. I love using medium-sized russets as they cook down beautifully and create that fluffy, creamy texture we all crave.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: The broth adds depth and flavor, and it’s up to you whether to go for chicken or vegetable—both work wonderfully! I often use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
Heavy Cream and Milk: Together, these creamy liquids make the soup rich and velvety. If you want to lighten it up a bit, feel free to swap half of the heavy cream with additional milk, but trust me, the cream really takes it up a notch!
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This is what brings every bite to life! The sharpness complements the potatoes beautifully. I’ve found that using freshly grated cheese melts better than the pre-shredded kind.
Bacon: Crumbled, crispy bacon scattered throughout brings that salty crunch we all adore. I like to bake mine for an even crispier texture.
Green Onions: Sliced for both flavor and garnish, these little guys add a nice pop of color and mild oniony taste.
Butter: The base of our roux, it gives that rich flavor to the soup.
All-Purpose Flour: This helps thicken the soup to that perfect creamy consistency.
Garlic: Just a couple of cloves minced to bring warmth and depth to the flavor.
Salt and Pepper: These essential seasoning staples help balance and enhance all the flavors of the soup.
Is Classic Old Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup Good for You?
Ah, the million-dollar question! This Loaded Potato Soup is definitely a comfort food splurge, but it also packs in some nutritional benefits:
Potatoes: They’re a great source of vitamins, particularly vitamin C and potassium. They fill you up without weighing you down.
Bacon: In moderation, bacon provides protein and adds flavor to your dish. Just be mindful of the portion!
Green Onions: These little green wonders are low in calories and high in vitamins A, C, and K. Plus, they add a nice crunch!
While it’s rich and indulgent due to the cream and cheese, you could always adjust the ingredient quantities to make it a little lighter while still keeping that comforting essence.
Ingredients List
This delicious Loaded Potato Soup serves about 6 people, perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week!
– 4 medium-sized russet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
– 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/2 cup green onions, sliced (plus more for garnish)
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Classic Old Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup?
Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for your potato soup masterpiece:
1. Grab a large pot and melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté until it smells heavenly, about 1 minute.
2. Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly to create a roux. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
3. Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth to avoid lumps. Bring it to a gentle boil—this is where the fun begins!
4. Add the diced potatoes and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let them cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and milk, allowing the soup to heat through. No boiling at this point—just let it warm up nicely!
6. Mix in the crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, and grated cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is beautifully melted and the soup is all creamy and dreamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the soup hot, garnished with more bacon bits, green onions, and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese for that extra flair.
Comforting Tips and Serving Suggestions
Want to take this soup to the next level? Here are some fun ideas!
– **Dollop of Sour Cream:** A little swirl of sour cream on top adds a zesty creaminess that I absolutely love.
– **Crusty Bread Companion:** Pair this soup with some crusty bread or garlic bread for a satisfying combo. Trust me, you’ll want to soak every last drop!
– **Add Veggies:** Toss in some steamed broccoli or cauliflower for a healthier twist and a pop of color.
This soup is a fantastic way to warm up, not just your belly, but your home and heart too. I can almost taste the deliciousness now! I can’t wait for you to try it out—let me know how yours turns out! Happy cooking!
