Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite cold-weather comfort food: Creamy Loaded Potato Soup! There’s just something about a warm, hearty bowl of soup that wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. I remember the first time I made this soup during a snowstorm, huddled in my kitchen, watching the snowflakes dance outside. The aroma of buttery garlic and simmering potatoes filled the air, and I could hardly wait to dig in!
This soup isn’t just about filling your belly; it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re snuggled up with a good book, watching your favorite movie, or sharing laughs with friends, this Loaded Potato Soup feels like a hug in a bowl. With creamy goodness, crispy bacon, and a sprinkle of cheese, it’s hard not to love every single bite!
What’s in Creamy Loaded Potato Soup?
Let’s break down the ingredients that come together in this delightful dish:
Russet Potatoes: These starchy beauties form the soul of the soup and give it that luscious, creamy base. I usually go for large ones since they yield the most luscious texture.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Broth adds depth and flavor to the soup. If I’m feeling particularly adventurous, I make my own stock, but store-bought works wonders too.
Heavy Cream: This is what transforms our soup from good to downright luxurious. You could substitute half-and-half if you’re looking to lighten it up a bit, but let’s be real, heavy cream is where the magic happens!
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: You can never go wrong with cheese! I love using sharp cheddar because it adds a zesty flavor that complements the creamy soup beautifully.
Bacon: Crispy bacon crumbles bring that satisfying crunch and smoky taste. Plus, who doesn’t love bacon?
Sour Cream: A dollop of this tangy goodness on top creates an incredible balance to the richness of the soup.
Green Onions: These little guys add a fresh crunch and a pop of color! Plus, they’re a delightful garnish.
Butter: Just a little bit enhances the flavor and helps sauté the garlic to perfection.
Garlic: Because garlic makes everything better! Just wait until you smell it cooking!
Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing all those flavors together!
Is Creamy Loaded Potato Soup Good for You?
Okay, let’s chat nutrition for a sec. The creamy, dreamy goodness of this soup is definitely a treat, but it comes with its advantages and a few considerations:
Potatoes: Packed with vitamins and minerals, especially when you include the skin! They’re a good source of carbohydrates, and the fiber helps keep you full.
Cheese and Cream: These ingredients are high in fat and calories, so it’s best to enjoy this soup in moderation. But hey, life is short, and comfort food is part of living!
Bacon: While delicious, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on portion sizes here. Opt for turkey bacon for a lower-fat option if you’d like.
This soup is perfect for an occasional splurge or cozy gatherings, and I promise it’s worth every creamy spoonful!
Ingredients
– 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 5 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup green onions, chopped (with green tops for garnish)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Serves: 6 hearty bowls of goodness*
How to Make Creamy Loaded Potato Soup?
Ready to dig into this delightful dish? Let’s do this!
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Your kitchen will smell incredible at this point!
2. Toss in the diced potatoes along with the broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Once your potatoes are soft, grab a potato masher or an immersion blender. Mash or blend the potatoes to your desired consistency. If you’re going for a creamy soup, blend until smooth; for a chunkier texture, give it a gentle mash.
4. Next, stir in the heavy cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat everything through.
5. Time to serve! Dish out the soup into bowls, and top them with crumbled bacon, a generous dollop of sour cream, the remaining cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions.
6. Sit back, enjoy your comforting Loaded Potato Soup while it’s hot, and relish in the heavenly flavors!
Delicious Variations and Serving Suggestions
Now that you know how to make this decadent soup, here are a few tips to elevate your experience:
– For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper while it simmers. It really takes the depth of flavor to the next level!
– This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side salad. Trust me; your guests will appreciate it!
– Want to make it a meal? Add some pre-cooked chicken or even some sautéed veggies like broccoli or corn for an additional nutritional boost.
I really can’t wait for you to try this Creamy Loaded Potato Soup! It’s one of those recipes that warms your heart and fills you up. Please share your experiences if you give it a go—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Enjoy and happy cooking!
