Loaded Potato Soup

I threw together my knockout potato soup during a nippy evening when I needed something warm and filling. Through countless tweaks over the years, I've nailed the sweet spot between smooth potatoes, crunchy bacon bits, and gooey cheese. Just one taste whisks you straight to grandma's cozy kitchen during those freezing winter nights.

Warmth in Every Spoonful

The real wonder kicks in as those soft potatoes dissolve into the smooth broth, giving you the perfect mix of textures with each mouthful. Everyone at home battles for the final serving, and all my buddies constantly ask me how I make it. This has turned into the dish everyone wants me to bring to gatherings.

Straight From My Home

• Spud selection: I always grab Russets for the smoothest base around.
• Liquid foundation: Hearty chicken stock adds incredible flavor depth.
• Smooth operators: Whole milk paired with heavy cream makes it incredibly velvety.
• Dairy delights: Fresh-grated sharp cheddar works wonders when it melts.
• Bacon goodness: Super crunchy pieces scattered throughout with care.
• Green garnish: Scallions bring that bright, fresh kick.

Creating Bowl Wonders

Begin with care:

Let butter melt gently, toss in those aromatic garlic bits and watch your flour turn a nice golden shade.

Create your foundation:

Add broth while stirring until smooth, then drop in those valuable potatoes.

Add richness:

When potatoes feel tender, mix in that wonderful creamy blend.

Add final elements:

Mix in crunchy bacon, gooey cheese and fresh scallions, seeing everything blend perfectly.

Insider Cooking Tips

Never use packaged shredded cheese as it won't melt properly like freshly grated. Handle your cream carefully without letting it boil or you'll ruin that smooth texture. My favorite little trick involves squashing some potato chunks against the side of your pot for extra thickness.

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Nourishing Delight

This soup isn't just tasty—it feeds your body and warms your heart too. The potatoes give you plenty of energy while the green onions add brightness. Sometimes I switch to turkey bacon to make it lighter and nobody can tell the difference.

Fancy Touches

Try adding a spoonful of sour cream on top for prettiness. I sometimes dust it with smoked paprika for color or throw in extra bacon because who wouldn't want more? Fresh chives from my garden make it look super fancy.

Personal Tweaks

On some days I mix in some steamed broccoli or cauliflower. My children go crazy when I add lots more cheese and my husband secretly adds hot sauce to his bowl. This soup works great with whatever veggies you've got lying around.

Storing Leftovers

The flavor actually gets better overnight. Keep it in an airtight container and it stays good for three days. Just warm it up slowly when you want more and add a splash of milk if needed.

Ready For The Freezer

Why not make twice as much and freeze some for later? It stays perfect in the freezer for three months. Just let it thaw in your fridge overnight and warm it slowly to keep all that creaminess.

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Healthier Versions

I sometimes use half and half instead of heavy cream or try almond milk. Turkey bacon cuts down calories and lower-fat cheese works fine too. You'll still get that comforting feel with fewer calories.

Quick Answers

• Other potato types? Yukon golds create an extra buttery flavor.
• Want vegetarian? Leave out bacon and use smoky paprika for flavor.
• Soup too runny? Squash more potatoes right in the pot.

Change It Up

Throw in some crumbled sausage or chunks of leftover ham. Add a tiny bit of cayenne for heat or mix in roasted garlic for extra flavor. Each new twist becomes another favorite in my house.

Weekly Food Prep

This soup works perfectly for those hectic weeks. Split it into containers for grab-and-go lunches. Pair it with a crusty bread roll and some greens for a quick complete meal.

Bowl of Happiness

This loaded potato soup has grown beyond just dinner in our home. It's become that warm hug in a bowl, the dish my friends always want, and the meal that brightens any rough day. Try making it yourself and let it bring some comfort to your table too.

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Final Thoughts

This satisfying soup combines creamy textures with hearty, comforting ingredients. Perfect for cooler days and packed with flavor from the toppings to the base.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I cook this soup ahead?

Absolutely. It warms up beautifully and is great for meal plans. Chill it in the fridge for up to 4 days and warm it slowly so it stays smooth.

→ What if I want it thicker?

Cook it a bit more to let it thicken, or make extra roux by blending butter and flour. Mashing some potatoes in the pot also helps.

→ What sides go well with this?

Pair it with crusty or garlic bread. Steamed veggies like broccoli or cauliflower also make great additions if you want extra nutrients.

→ Can I skip the meat?

Sure thing. Switch the chicken broth for veggie broth, leave out the bacon, and boost the flavor with smoked paprika or extra veggies.

→ How do I avoid clumps in the soup?

Mix the butter and flour really well when starting the roux. Slowly pour in the broth while whisking—it keeps things smooth and creamy.