Loaded Potato Soup Comfort in Every Spoonful

When chilly weather hits, nothing warms your soul like a bowl of Loaded Potato Soup. In this post, I'll guide you through each step to create creamy, cheesy goodness that comforts with every spoonful. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, you'll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Ready to dive into the world of flavor and warmth? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes

- 1 medium onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

- 1 cup heavy cream

- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for serving)

- 1/2 cup sour cream

- 4 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

In this loaded potato soup, we start with russet potatoes. They are starchy and creamy. I peel and cut them into cubes. This helps them cook evenly. Next, I finely chop a medium onion and mince two garlic cloves. These add great flavor to the soup.

I use either vegetable or chicken broth in this recipe. Both work well. They create a nice base for the soup. Then, I pour in one cup of heavy cream. This makes the soup rich and smooth. I also add one cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. It melts beautifully and adds a cheesy taste.

Sour cream comes next. I use half a cup for extra creaminess. For a fresh touch, I chop four green onions to garnish. They add color and a mild onion flavor.

I season the soup with one teaspoon of smoked paprika. This gives it a warm, smoky taste. Finally, I add salt and pepper to taste.

These simple ingredients make a comforting and tasty soup. Each bite feels like a warm hug. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

- Step 1: Sauté onions and garlic

First, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. When it shimmers, add the chopped onion. Cook for about five minutes until the onion is soft and clear. Then, add the minced garlic. Stir it for one more minute until it smells great.

- Step 2: Add potatoes and broth, bring to boil

Now, add the diced russet potatoes to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mix to a rolling boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Cooking Steps

- Step 3: Simmer until potatoes are fork-tender

The potatoes should be soft enough to pierce with a fork. This means they are ready for the next step. Keep an eye on them while they cook!

- Step 4: Blend for desired consistency

Once the potatoes are cooked, use an immersion blender. Carefully blend the soup until it is smooth. If you like some chunks, blend only half of it and mix it back in.

Final Steps

- Step 5: Stir in cream, cheese, and seasonings

Lower the heat again. Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Mix well until the cheese melts. The soup should look rich and creamy.

- Step 6: Serve with garnishments

Season the soup with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for five more minutes. Serve the soup hot, topped with extra cheddar cheese, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy every spoonful!

Tips & Tricks

Enhancing Flavor

Using homemade broth makes a big difference. It gives the soup depth and richness. If you have time, simmer bones and veggies to create a great base. If not, store-bought broth works too. Just pick a brand with low sodium for better control over salt.

Fresh herbs add brightness to loaded potato soup. Chives, parsley, or even dill can elevate the taste. Add them at the end of cooking to keep their flavor fresh. A small handful can make your soup shine.

Achieving the Perfect Texture

For blending, an immersion blender is your best friend. It lets you control the smoothness easily. If you want some chunks, blend half the soup and mix it back in. This gives the soup a nice balance of creaminess and texture.

Balancing creaminess and chunkiness is key. Start by adding heavy cream slowly. Mix it in until the soup feels rich but not too thick. Adjust with broth if needed to get your ideal texture. The goal is a cozy soup that feels comforting in every spoonful.

Variations

Dietary Alternatives

You can easily make a vegetarian version of loaded potato soup. Just switch to plant-based cream. This keeps the soup rich and creamy while being meat-free. If you want a dairy-free option, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. It gives a subtle sweetness that works well with the potatoes. Both options let everyone enjoy this warm soup without worry.

Flavor Variations

To make your soup even heartier, add bacon or ham. These meats bring a savory flavor that many love. Just cook the bacon until crispy and crumble it on top when serving. You can also mix in jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. This extra heat can elevate the soup and wake up your taste buds. Feel free to play with these flavors to make the soup your own!

Storage Info

Refrigeration

To store your leftover loaded potato soup, let it cool first. Pour the soup into an airtight container. Make sure to leave some space at the top, as the soup may expand when it freezes. Seal the container tightly. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you want to eat it, just reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot.

Freezing Tips

If you want to keep the soup longer, freezing is a great option. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave space at the top in the bags to allow for expansion. You can freeze the soup for up to three months.

For thawing, move the soup from the freezer to the fridge overnight. If you need it quickly, use the microwave, but be careful not to cook it. Once thawed, reheat the soup on low heat. Stir it often to keep it smooth. Add a splash of cream if it seems too thick. Enjoy your warm, comforting soup again!

FAQs

Common Questions

How to thicken loaded potato soup? You can thicken loaded potato soup by using a few easy methods. One way is to blend part of the soup. This adds creaminess and keeps some chunks. You can also add more potatoes or a little cornstarch mixed with water. This will make the soup hearty and rich.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Just cook it as usual, then cool it down. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, heat it on the stove. You might need to add a splash of broth or cream to bring back its creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

What can I use instead of heavy cream? If you want to swap heavy cream, use half-and-half or whole milk. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream. These will still give you a creamy flavor without the heaviness.

Alternatives for sharp cheddar cheese You can use mild cheddar cheese if you prefer less sharpness. Monterey Jack or Gruyère cheese can also add a lovely taste. For a dairy-free option, look for vegan cheese that melts well.

Serving Suggestions

What to serve with loaded potato soup? Loaded potato soup pairs well with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with crispy bacon bits on top for added flavor. A dollop of sour cream adds a nice touch too.

Best bread pairings for this recipe Crusty bread or soft dinner rolls work great with this soup. You can also try garlic bread for a tasty twist. Dipping bread into the soup makes each bite even more comforting.

This blog post covers how to make a tasty loaded potato soup. You start with simple ingredients like potatoes, broth, and cheese. I walk you through each step to ensure great flavor and texture. You also learn helpful tips for storage and tasty variations.

Try this recipe, and enjoy every warm bowl. Your soup will be a hit, and you'll impress family and friends!