Every time I make this Loaded Potato Soup, it reminds me of chilly evenings spent huddled with my loved ones around the kitchen table. There’s something so comforting about the aroma of potatoes, cheese, and spices simmering away, filling the house with warmth and love. I remember the laughter and stories shared over steaming bowls, our hearts warmed not just by the soup, but by each other. I know once you try this recipe, you’ll channel that same feeling of cozy happiness that makes a house feel like a home!
How to make Loaded Potato Soup
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes: These are the stars of the dish. I love using russets for their fluffy interior.
- 1 onion: Adds a sweetness that balances the flavors beautifully.
- 2 cloves garlic: Because garlic makes everything better, right?
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: This gives the soup its rich base.
- 1 cup heavy cream: For that luxurious creaminess you just can’t resist.
- 1 cup shredded cheese: I opt for cheddar, but feel free to mix it up!
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds a tangy depth that really makes this dish sing.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Definitely don’t skip out on seasoning—it's key!
- Chives or green onions for garnish: Just a touch of freshness that completes the dish.
I often love to throw in some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to elevate the flavors, but feel free to make this soup your own!
Cooking Steps
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Prep the Potatoes: Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small cubes. This not only helps them cook faster but also makes them easier to blend later if you prefer a smoother texture.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, add a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and sauté it until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Adding garlic at this stage for the last minute makes your kitchen smell divine!
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Add the Potatoes and Broth: Now, add the diced potatoes to the pot. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and bring everything to a boil. That bubbling noise is music to my ears; it means that comfort is just around the corner.
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Simmer Until Tender: Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer. Keep an eye on it until the potatoes are tender when poked with a fork, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
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Mash Some Potatoes: I like to use a potato masher to gently mash some of the potatoes, creating a thicker, creamier consistency. If you love a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender right in the pot for a few seconds.
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Stir in Cream and Cheese: Lower the heat again and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese. I usually add the cheese a handful at a time, letting it melt into the warm broth. The combination of flavors will make you want to dive right in!
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Mix in Sour Cream: This step is what takes your Loaded Potato Soup to the next level! Stir in the sour cream until it’s fully mixed through, adding a rich creaminess.
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Season to Perfection: Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper. Taste as you go—this is how you create something truly delicious!
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Garnish and Serve: Finally, ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle chives or green onions on top for some color and extra flavor. Nothing says love like a good garnish!
Why I Love Making This Dish
This Loaded Potato Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a way to draw my family closer. I look forward to those evenings when the weather outside is chilly, and all you want is to wrap your hands around a warm bowl of soup. The creamy, cheesy goodness warms you right up from the inside out, and the recipe is simple enough that even my grandchildren love to assist with the cooking. It makes for a perfect family bonding activity!
What You’ll Need
You’ll need a few special tools to make this soup, but nothing too fancy! Grab a large pot for cooking, a cutting board and knife for chopping, and a potato masher if you want that creamy texture. An immersion blender is optional but can be helpful if you prefer a smooth soup.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Start by prepping all your ingredients. Chop your potatoes, onion, and garlic ahead of time so that everything is ready to go.
- Heat your olive oil in the pot and sauté your onion first, allowing it to soften before adding garlic.
- Add the potatoes and broth, and let it come to a boil before simmering.
- Mash some of the potatoes, add in your cream and cheese, and don’t forget to season!
- Serve hot and enjoy with your loved ones.
Tips for Perfect Results
- I always ensure my potatoes are of similar size for even cooking.
- Adding cream in two stages helps create a rich texture and flavor.
- If you want a thinner soup, simply add more broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
I love to pair my Loaded Potato Soup with homemade biscuits or crusty bread. A side salad with fresh veggies also complements it beautifully, giving you a nice crunch against the creamy soup. Sometimes, I even add a light drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of paprika on top before serving for a little extra flair.
Leftovers
One of the best things about Loaded Potato Soup is how well it stores! Just let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container in the fridge. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or cream—as the soup can thicken up in the fridge. You can reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through, and it tastes just as delightful as when it was freshly made!
FAQ Section
Can I make this soup in advance? Absolutely! I often make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week. Just store it well!
Can I freeze Loaded Potato Soup? You can freeze it, but I recommend leaving out the dairy components (like cream and sour cream) until you plan to serve it. It just turns out creamier that way!
Can I use different types of cheese? Of course! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Just remember, some might change the flavor more than others.
What if I want it vegetarian? Using vegetable broth is an easy swap, and you can skip the bacon bits or any meat ingredients to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
This Loaded Potato Soup has become a favorite in my house, and I’m so excited for you to try it. It embodies everything I love about cooking—comfort, warmth, and most importantly, love for family and friends. I know you’ll love it as much as I do! Let me know how it turns out, and if your family asks for seconds, just like mine does every time. Enjoy and happy cooking!