Ingredients:

For the Soup:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (for garnish)

Steps to Make Creamy Loaded Potato Soup:

1. Prepare the Potatoes:
   • Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Set them aside in a bowl of cold water to prevent them from browning.
2. Cook the Bacon:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon slices over medium heat until they are crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble and set aside. Discard most of the bacon grease, leaving a small amount in the pot for added flavor.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
   • In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the Potatoes and Broth:
   • Drain the potatoes and add them to the pot along with the chicken or vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let the potatoes cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Blend the Soup (Optional):
   • For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup in the pot, leaving some potato chunks for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer half of the soup to a blender, purée until smooth, and return it to the pot. Alternatively, leave the soup chunky if you prefer a more rustic texture.
6. Add the Cream and Cheese:
   • Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the soup is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve and Garnish:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon, extra shredded cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh chives. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting bowl of loaded potato soup!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, approx. 1 cup):

• Calories: 320-350 kcal
• Protein: 8 grams
• Carbohydrates: 24 grams
• Fat: 23 grams
• Sodium: 650 mg
• Sugars: 3 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this soup without heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with whole milk, half-and-half, or even a dairy-free option like coconut milk or almond milk for a lighter version. Be aware that the soup may be slightly less creamy, but it will still be delicious.

Q2: How do I make this soup vegetarian?

Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the bacon, or use a vegetarian bacon substitute. You can add extra cheese or smoked paprika to boost the flavor.

Q3: Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, while cheddar cheese is traditional, you can use other cheeses like gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp Parmesan for a unique twist.

Q4: Can I freeze this soup?

While it’s possible to freeze this soup, the texture may change slightly because of the dairy. If you plan to freeze it, consider leaving out the cream and adding it when reheating the soup to maintain its creamy texture.

Q5: What types of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe as they become soft and creamy when cooked, making for a rich soup. Yukon Gold potatoes are another good choice as they hold their shape well and add a buttery flavor.

Tips for Making Perfect Creamy Loaded Potato Soup:

1. Choose the Right Potatoes:
   • Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are the best options for creamy soups. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they don’t break down as easily and may leave the soup too chunky.
2. Don’t Overcook the Potatoes:
   • Boil the potatoes until they are just fork-tender. Overcooking can make them too mushy and affect the texture of the soup.
3. Add Bacon Last:
   • For maximum flavor and crunch, add the crumbled bacon on top of each bowl right before serving. This keeps the bacon crispy and prevents it from getting soggy.
4. Control the Texture:
   • If you prefer a chunky soup, leave some of the potatoes unblended. For a smooth, velvety soup, purée more of the mixture. You can always blend half the soup to achieve a balance of both textures.
5. Experiment with Seasonings:
   • In addition to salt and pepper, you can add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra depth of flavor. Smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can also add a subtle kick to the soup.
6. Use Fresh Ingredients for Garnish:
   • Fresh chives, parsley, or even green onions add a nice contrast in color and a fresh flavor that brightens up the rich soup.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration:
   • Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add a splash of cream or broth if the soup has thickened too much.
2. Freezing:
   • If you plan to freeze this soup, do so before adding the cream. Dairy can sometimes separate when frozen and reheated, which may affect the texture. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When reheating, add the cream after the soup is fully heated.
3. Reheating Tips:
   • For the best results, reheat the soup slowly on the stovetop. Stir frequently and add a bit of broth if it’s too thick. Avoid boiling, as it can affect the creamy consistency.

Conclusion:

Creamy Loaded Potato Soup is a cozy, flavorful dish that combines simple ingredients into a warming, satisfying meal. The combination of creamy broth, tender potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon is simply irresistible, and the addition of chives adds a refreshing contrast to each bite. Perfect for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or a chilly night at home, this soup is easy to make and sure to impress.

With this recipe, you can enjoy the comforts of a classic loaded potato soup with a rich, homemade touch. Follow these tips, use fresh ingredients, and don’t skip the garnishes—they make the dish truly special! Enjoy every spoonful of this delicious, hearty potato soup that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful.